Multiple Monoclonal Antibodies at Once?

[Guest guest]

I saw a rheumatologist about a week ago who thinks I might have psoriatic

arthritis. Whatever - I'm sure hurting all over again. She ordered around a

dozen blood tests and several x-rays. Next week I'll get the results. I will

have to say that she was much more thorough than most other docs have been, and

especially rheumatologists.

During our conversation I mentioned being on Xolair. She responded wryly with

" how much does it cost? " and " we can control that for $15 a month " (i.e.,

meaning using a completely different drug like a steroid !!!) I was a little

annoyed at the slightly cavalier attitude and explained that I had had years of

allergic asthma and infections that had actually damaged my lungs. That subject

was dropped, however, she mentioned treating the arthritis with a monoclonal

antibody and that I could not be on both at once.

I was wondering what is known about this? Xolair goes for the IgE and is very

different as I understand it than the drugs like Enbrel (just for example) that

must target a different immunoglobulin. So, would it be possible to be on 2

different monoclonal antibodies at the same time? Has anyone looked into

this?

I've heard that it's not uncommon for someone with asthma and allergies to

have arthritis. One dermatologist (who was quite snitty) informed me that they

see this a lot - unfortunately he didn't have any cures or good suggestions,

either.

Thx!!!

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