Enbrel

[Guest guest]

Hi ...I've been on enbrel since 2005 and its been wonderful for me. I

felt good right after injecting..within a few days..but it usually takes a

month or more. I have a friend that just went on it and she can feel herself

feeling better each day. I am also on prednisone 5 mg each day. this is

the best I have ever felt with my r/a.

Hope you get the same results .

Hugs..a in Ohio

[Guest guest]

,

I've been on Enbrel for almost six years. It works wonderfully well

for me. I don't have to take prednisone or methotrexate along with it,

just Tylenol. At present I am doing well while doing my injections

once a week instead of the prescribed twice a week. I've been lucky

enough that I haven't had any adverse side effects, not even frequent

infections. I hope that you have the same good results.

Sue

On Dec 16, 2009, at 7:00 PM, Normsgrl@... wrote:

> Hello all,

>

> My new Rheumy is prescribing me Enbrel. I know that so many of you

> have

> already posted your experiences with it. Probably over and over

> again!

> But could you please post again for me your experience with this

> drug?

>

[Guest guest]

Sue and a,

Thank you for telling me about your experiences with enbrel. I'm very

glad that it works for you both. I see that it does work for lots of people.

Do you still get flare ups once in awhile? Or is it like a remission? I

know... I know... everyone is different and I'll have to see for myself.

But I'm just curious?

Thanks!

Michigan

[Guest guest]

, I haven't actually had a flare in the nearly six years that I've

been on Enbrel. I realize how lucky I am. It's certainly the right

medicine for me. But as you say, everyone is different. Good luck!

Sue

On Dec 17, 2009, at 10:49 AM, Normsgrl@... wrote:

> Sue and a,

>

> Thank you for telling me about your experiences with enbrel. I'm very

> glad that it works for you both. I see that it does work for lots

> of people.

>

> Do you still get flare ups once in awhile? Or is it like a

> remission? I

> know... I know... everyone is different and I'll have to see for

> myself.

> But I'm just curious?

>

[Guest guest]

,

I am glad that Enbrel is working for your condition, which is

reactive arthritis, of which ankylosing spondylitis is a symptom

(with spine and back pain).

I cannot use Enbrel because I was exposed to tuberculosis when I was

a kid, and the use of Enbrel or other TNF inhibitors could lead to

tuberculosis. Please see http://www.newsinferno.com/archives/3013

" Enbrel, a drug used to treat psoriasis that has been associated with

serious infections, including tuberculosis in some patients. Enbrel's

labeling, will now carry the Food & Drug Administration's (FDA)

strictest safety notice, a black box warning.

Enbrel, manufactured by Amgen and Wyeth, is made from a type of

protein called a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker that blocks the

action of a substance made by the body's immune system called TNF.

People with an immune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis,

ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, and psoriasis, have too

much TNF in their bodies. The FDA first approved Enbrel in 2000 for

treating rheumatoid arthritis, and its approved uses where expanded

several times to include psoriasis and other conditions.

The new Enbrel black box warning was prompted by global studies of

over 20,000 patients taking Enbrel, where tuberculosis was observed

in about 200 people. Approximately 14,000 Americans were diagnosed

with tuberculosis last year. Tuberculosis is a bacterial lung

infection, and according to the federal Centers for Disease Control

and Prevention (CDC), people with weakened immune systems are more

likely to contract the disease. "

My latest diagnois is reactive arthritis, and my most acute current

symptoms are pain and swelling of my feet and hands. My weapons of

choice this past week have been the topical application of

Aspercreme, whose active ingredient is trolamine salicylate

(aspirin), and use of tones Theraspa massager / vibrator (a $50

product). I think these are helping.

Sincerely, Harald

At 08:40 PM 7/5/2010, wrote:

>

>To Harold Weiss,

>

>I was mistakenly diagnosed with RA. I was finally diagnosed with

>anklyosing spondlylitis. While inflammation is mostly in the spine,

>including the neck and extending down to the hips, it can also

>affect other areas as it is a systemic disorder. When I am having a

>flare, I get sharp pains in the little joints in my left foot, and

>both feet swell. After treatment with antibiotics and Enbrel, my

>shoe size went from a 10 to a 9. So, AS is a possibility to check

>out. I don't have the blood markers for AS but all of the clinical

>symptoms. Enbrel is a dangerous drug but it helps incredibly along

>with the antibiotics.

>

>E

>

[Guest guest]

Just out of curiosity, all your tests relating to AS diagonsis were negative? I

believe the test is HLAB27 which makes a confirmed diagnosis of AS. I have some

of the symptoms you described here as well as some joint problems in the hands,

fingers and wrists. My tests for AS were negative and rheumy said it was RA but

still not sure due to seronegative arthritis. I was told to take Enbrel also but

I am on Minocin at the moment. I grew up in different parts of the world and

also travelled to areas where TB was rampant. So I am a little hesistant on

taking any long term biologics due to their side effects.

>

>To Harold Weiss,

>

>I was mistakenly diagnosed with RA. I was finally diagnosed with

>anklyosing spondlylitis. While inflammation is mostly in the spine,

>including the neck and extending down to the hips, it can also

>affect other areas as it is a systemic disorder. When I am having a

>flare, I get sharp pains in the little joints in my left foot, and

>both feet swell. After treatment with antibiotics and Enbrel, my

>shoe size went from a 10 to a 9. So, AS is a possibility to check

>out. I don't have the blood markers for AS but all of the clinical

>symptoms. Enbrel is a dangerous drug but it helps incredibly along

>with the antibiotics.

>

>E

>

[Guest guest]

All of my tests were negative. However, the clinical exam clearly indicates that

I have AS. My official diagnosis is AS. Biologics are powerful drugs. I was

tested for TB, and the results were negative. I don't have much choice. I took

Enbrel for a while and it sent the AS into remission. I went off the Enbrel and

controlled the symptoms to some degree with antibiotics and apple cider vinegar.

I moved into an old house with mold (unbeknownst to me), and I had a terrible

relapse. I was becoming cripped again, and I couldn't do daily activities. So, I

went back on the Enbrel. I prefer to take the Enbrel for limited periods of time

to send the AS into remission and then to go off the drug with ny doctor's

permission. It is not a perfect solution, but it does limit my exposure to the

Enbrel. If it turns out that I have to stay on the drug to control the disease,

then I may have to use it long-term. If I could find a doctor who is experienced

with AP then

perhaps I could sop taking it. I noticed that one dose of clindomyacin did

wonders but I have never taken it for AP.

Right now, my life tos a mess. I have been unable to hold a job for very long,

and I have lost nearly everything. Before I got the full-blown AS in 2003, I was

a high level executive. I believe that I've had AS for most of my life but

something happened, perhaps an infection, that led to my getting extremely sick.

E

________________________________

From: Ash <a_amdani2000@...>

rheumatic

Sent: Tue, July 6, 2010 10:53:23 AM

Subject: Re: rheumatic Enbrel

Just out of curiosity, all your tests relating to AS diagonsis were negative? I

believe the test is HLAB27 which makes a confirmed diagnosis of AS. I have some

of the symptoms you described here as well as some joint problems in the hands,

fingers and wrists. My tests for AS were negative and rheumy said it was RA but

still not sure due to seronegative arthritis. I was told to take Enbrel also but

I am on Minocin at the moment. I grew up in different parts of the world and

also travelled to areas where TB was rampant. So I am a little hesistant on

taking any long term biologics due to their side effects.

>

>To Harold Weiss,

>

>I was mistakenly diagnosed with RA. I was finally diagnosed with

>anklyosing spondlylitis. While inflammation is mostly in the spine,

>including the neck and extending down to the hips, it can also

>affect other areas as it is a systemic disorder. When I am having a

>flare, I get sharp pains in the little joints in my left foot, and

>both feet swell. After treatment with antibiotics and Enbrel, my

>shoe size went from a 10 to a 9. So, AS is a possibility to check

>out. I don't have the blood markers for AS but all of the clinical

>symptoms. Enbrel is a dangerous drug but it helps incredibly along

>with the antibiotics.

>

>E

>

[Guest guest]

Ash,

Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) B27 is a genetic factor which increases

a person's chance of developing reactive arthritis. Approximately 80

percent of people with reactive arthritis test positive for HLA-B27.

However, inheriting the HLA-B27 gene does not necessarily mean you

will get reactive arthritis. Eight percent of healthy people have the

HLA-B27 gene, and only about one-fifth of them will develop reactive

arthritis if they contract the triggering infections.

Please see http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Reactive_Arthritis/default.asp

Sincerely, Harald

At 08:53 AM 7/6/2010, Ash wrote:

>

>Just out of curiosity, all your tests relating to AS diagonsis were

>negative? I believe the test is HLAB27 which makes a confirmed

>diagnosis of AS. I have some of the symptoms you described here as

>well as some joint problems in the hands, fingers and wrists. My

>tests for AS were negative and rheumy said it was RA but still not

>sure due to seronegative arthritis. I was told to take Enbrel also

>but I am on Minocin at the moment. I grew up in different parts of

>the world and also travelled to areas where TB was rampant. So I am

>a little hesistant on taking any long term biologics due to their

>side effects.

[Guest guest]

While the HLA (B27) factor test is used for diagnostic purposes, a

rheumatologist can also make a diagnosis based on a clinical exam. I tested

negative for the factor but I do have an official diagnosis of AS and the doctor

presented clinical evidence successfully to secure my access to ENBREL. I have

had two doctors now that were able to obtain ENBREL for me through submitting

documentation based on the clinical exam. My doctor, as I mentioned, is very

conservative and I am certain that he would not have made this diagnosis leading

to the prescription of a very expensive drug if he had not believed it was

medically necessary. And, in fact, the ENBREL is the only medication that has

worked to relieve the terrible pain and stiffness that leads to my being

crippled. When I first saw him, I had been confined to bed mainly for three

years. Within a brief time period, I was back on my feet and, in fact, able to

walk 5 to 7 mile hikes within a few months of

therapy. However, I did also have the benefit of antibiotic therapy which

relieved mental confusion, exhaustion and brain fog. I should mention that I

also take nervous system stimulants to counteract the low energy states related

to having an inflammatory disease. And, I take an anti-anxiety medication also.

I could not function withomut the stimulants, and they have become an accepted

part of the therapeutic intervention for inflammatory and related conditions. I

obtain the stimulants and the anti-anxiety medications from a psychiatrist, and

I have never been turned down by a psychiatrist for these meds.

[Guest guest]

, I am happy for you that you are getting some relief and have done so

well.

Re: rheumatic Enbrel

While the HLA (B27) factor test is used for diagnostic purposes, a

rheumatologist can also make a diagnosis based on a clinical exam. I tested

negative for the factor but I do have an official diagnosis of AS and the doctor

presented clinical evidence successfully to secure my access to ENBREL. I have

had two doctors now that were able to obtain ENBREL for me through submitting

documentation based on the clinical exam. My doctor, as I mentioned, is very

conservative and I am certain that he would not have made this diagnosis leading

to the prescription of a very expensive drug if he had not believed it was

medically necessary. And, in fact, the ENBREL is the only medication that has

worked to relieve the terrible pain and stiffness that leads to my being

crippled. When I first saw him, I had been confined to bed mainly for three

years. Within a brief time period, I was back on my feet and, in fact, able to

walk 5 to 7 mile hikes within a few months of

therapy. However, I did also have the benefit of antibiotic therapy which

relieved mental confusion, exhaustion and brain fog. I should mention that I

also take nervous system stimulants to counteract the low energy states related

to having an inflammatory disease. And, I take an anti-anxiety medication also.

I could not function withomut the stimulants, and they have become an accepted

part of the therapeutic intervention for inflammatory and related conditions. I

obtain the stimulants and the anti-anxiety medications from a psychiatrist, and

I have never been turned down by a psychiatrist for these meds.

[Guest guest]

Well, I went off the ENBREL and the biaxin for about 15 months, and I finally

did have a serious relapse. I needed to start the drugs when the symptoms

started to appear rather than to wait until they became unbearable. It's a fine

line to walk, unless someone wants to stay on these drugs long-term with no

interruptions. I still struggle with this aspect of treatment. I have been

unable to return to work full-time, and I sometimes have a hard time doing

consulting work at home because I don't feel well. I am going to stay on the

drugs for at least six months this time to see if I can return to normal

mobility and functioning.

And, I hope to find someone who specializes in AP because I think there is good

potential there to control some of these inflammatory/immune system disorders

with antibiotics.

E

________________________________

From: Ken and <kglg@...>

rheumatic

Sent: Tue, July 6, 2010 3:34:56 PM

Subject: Re: rheumatic Enbrel

, I am happy for you that you are getting some relief and have done so

well.

Re: rheumatic Enbrel

While the HLA (B27) factor test is used for diagnostic purposes, a

rheumatologist can also make a diagnosis based on a clinical exam. I tested

negative for the factor but I do have an official diagnosis of AS and the doctor

presented clinical evidence successfully to secure my access to ENBREL. I have

had two doctors now that were able to obtain ENBREL for me through submitting

documentation based on the clinical exam. My doctor, as I mentioned, is very

conservative and I am certain that he would not have made this diagnosis leading

to the prescription of a very expensive drug if he had not believed it was

medically necessary. And, in fact, the ENBREL is the only medication that has

worked to relieve the terrible pain and stiffness that leads to my being

crippled. When I first saw him, I had been confined to bed mainly for three

years. Within a brief time period, I was back on my feet and, in fact, able to

walk 5 to 7 mile hikes within a few months of

therapy. However, I did also have the benefit of antibiotic therapy which

relieved mental confusion, exhaustion and brain fog. I should mention that I

also take nervous system stimulants to counteract the low energy states related

to having an inflammatory disease. And, I take an anti-anxiety medication also.

I could not function withomut the stimulants, and they have become an accepted

part of the therapeutic intervention for inflammatory and related conditions. I

obtain the stimulants and the anti-anxiety medications from a psychiatrist, and

I have never been turned down by a psychiatrist for these meds.

[Guest guest]

I have AS and sciatica. After my pulmonary doctor put me on Biaxin and within

four weeks I didn't have anymore pain with my sciatica. I also found this info

about antibiotics:

Eva

 

Doctors stumble on infection clue to sciatica cure

By Lorraine Fraser, Medical Correspondent Last Updated: 11:54PM BST 14 Jul 2001

DOCTORS believe that half of all cases of the excruciating back pain known as

sciatica could be caused by an infection which is easily cured by antibiotics.

Specialists in Birmingham have found slow-growing bacteria of the kind that

normally lives on the surface of the skin in spinal tissue from nearly 50 per

cent of patients with sciatica.

Related Articles

　

The finding suggests that a course of antibiotics could be all that is needed to

solve the problem for millions of sufferers, revolutionising the way that

doctors treat back pain.

A clinical trial involving hundreds of patients is being set up to test the

hypothesis and the results should be known in 18 months' time.

The NHS spends ££500 million a year on investigations and therapy for patients

with back pain, which is one of the most difficult complaints to treat.

The cost to industry in terms of lost working time is an estimated ££4 billion

annually and the potential savings, should the doctors be proved right, would be

enormous.

Tom Elliott, the professor of clinical microbiology at the University Hospital

in Edgbaston, told The Telegraph that the finding of infection in patients with

sciatica was " very exciting " .

He said: " In terms of future therapy it may mean we could treat this with

antibiotics. It could have a tremendous impact in terms of the management of

patients with back pain and that has large implications for the NHS as a whole. "

Sixteen million people suffer at least one bout of back pain in the UK in any

one year and sciatica - pain in the sciatic nerve which extends down the leg

from the base of the spinal cord - is one of the most common symptoms.

It has traditionally been explained as pressure on the sciatic nerve from a

bulging or " slipped " vertebral disc.

However, until now there has been no explanation for the inflammation which is

frequently present.

Professor Elliot and four colleagues from Aston University and the Royal

Orthopaedic Hospital in Birmingham stumbled across the answer when trying out a

blood test for deep-seated infections in patients, intended to identify

infections of the heart or bone.

They applied the test to sciatica sufferers as a " control " group expecting

negative results in these individuals - only to find that in a third of them it

was positive.

They have examined disc tissue from 180 patients with sciatica so severe that

they needed surgery and found bacterial infection in 46 per cent of them.

The most frequently occurring microbe was Proprionibacterium acnes, a normal

skin bacterium linked to acne.

Professor Elliot said: " We think the organisms are getting into the blood and

settling in this part of the body, perhaps in already damaged discs, setting up

a low-grade infection. "

The theory would explain why some people have slipped discs but do not have

sciatic pain.

The bacteria concerned are all sensitive to common antibiotics.

Tests are under way to see if it is possible to get sufficient drug into the

infected discs to kill the bacteria.

Professor Elliot said: " We suspect that short courses of antibiotics won't work

and sciatica patients may need six weeks of antibiotics, as is the case for

example in bone infection. "

In future it might also be possible to use the blood test to spot those who

might benefit from antibiotic treatment, he added.

A spokesman for the charity BackCare, which helped to fund the research, said:

" This is extremely interesting work and we will be very excited to see the

results of the clinical trial, but we must wait and see. "

　

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1334054/Doctors-stumble-on-infection-clue\

-to-sciatica-cure.html

　

UK News

Get feed updates

News

Get feed updates

External Links

　

Can you catch a bad back? [10 Jul '01] - Aston University

Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, Birmingham - Specialist info

University Hospital, Birmingham

Spine-health.com

　

　

　

　

More on

UK News

Get feed updates

　

　

Something to keep in mind whenever using antibiotics is that they may be more

effective when taken with bromelain. In humans, some undetermined activity of

bromelain has been documented to increase blood and urine levels of antibiotics.

Combining bromelain and antibiotic therapy has been shown to be more effective

than antibiotics alone in treating a variety of conditions including pneumonia,

bronchitis, staph skin infections, thrombophlebitis, cellulitis, pyelonephritis,

perirectal and rectal abscesses, and sinusitis. [Drugs Exp Clin Res 1978;4:

pp.45-8]

　

Pickrell, M.D. (RHU)

The Austin Diagnostic Clinic

12221 Mopac Expressway North

Austin, TX

P: 512-901-4018

From: Sasser <evelynsasser@...>

Subject: Re: rheumatic Enbrel

rheumatic

Date: Tuesday, July 6, 2010, 3:56 PM

 

Well, I went off the ENBREL and the biaxin for about 15 months, and I finally

did have a serious relapse. I needed to start the drugs when the symptoms

started to appear rather than to wait until they became unbearable. It's a fine

line to walk, unless someone wants to stay on these drugs long-term with no

interruptions. I still struggle with this aspect of treatment. I have been

unable to return to work full-time, and I sometimes have a hard time doing

consulting work at home because I don't feel well. I am going to stay on the

drugs for at least six months this time to see if I can return to normal

mobility and functioning.

And, I hope to find someone who specializes in AP because I think there is good

potential there to control some of these inflammatory/immune system disorders

with antibiotics.

E

________________________________

From: Ken and <kglg@...>

rheumatic

Sent: Tue, July 6, 2010 3:34:56 PM

Subject: Re: rheumatic Enbrel

, I am happy for you that you are getting some relief and have done so

well.

Re: rheumatic Enbrel

While the HLA (B27) factor test is used for diagnostic purposes, a

rheumatologist can also make a diagnosis based on a clinical exam. I tested

negative for the factor but I do have an official diagnosis of AS and the doctor

presented clinical evidence successfully to secure my access to ENBREL. I have

had two doctors now that were able to obtain ENBREL for me through submitting

documentation based on the clinical exam. My doctor, as I mentioned, is very

conservative and I am certain that he would not have made this diagnosis leading

to the prescription of a very expensive drug if he had not believed it was

medically necessary. And, in fact, the ENBREL is the only medication that has

worked to relieve the terrible pain and stiffness that leads to my being

crippled. When I first saw him, I had been confined to bed mainly for three

years. Within a brief time period, I was back on my feet and, in fact, able to

walk 5 to 7 mile hikes within a few months of

therapy. However, I did also have the benefit of antibiotic therapy which

relieved mental confusion, exhaustion and brain fog. I should mention that I

also take nervous system stimulants to counteract the low energy states related

to having an inflammatory disease. And, I take an anti-anxiety medication also.

I could not function withomut the stimulants, and they have become an accepted

part of the therapeutic intervention for inflammatory and related conditions. I

obtain the stimulants and the anti-anxiety medications from a psychiatrist, and

I have never been turned down by a psychiatrist for these meds.

[Guest guest]

This is very interesting. Thank you for forwarding it. I also have mild

sciatica from an accident that I had when I was young. I don't think it bothers

me when I am taking the biaxin.

My rheumatologist doesn't know what to think of the biaxin. He is well aware

that antibiotics can help with inflammation. He did admit (in a moment of

extreme weakness) that might have a micro-infection at the cellular level. I do

believe it grows slowly because I was fine for a long time after being off the

biaxin.

Believe it or not, apple cider vinegar is also helpful as an adjunct for my AS.

I took it for a long time, and it definitely kept my pain levels down. Go

figure. I've got to go to the store and buy a jug. I mix it with water and a

little bit of salt and drink it down a couple times a day.

E

________________________________

From: Eva Holloway <holloway-eva@...>

rheumatic

Sent: Tue, July 6, 2010 9:35:17 PM

Subject: Re: rheumatic Enbrel

I have AS and sciatica. After my pulmonary doctor put me on Biaxin and within

four weeks I didn't have anymore pain with my sciatica. I also found this info

about antibiotics:

Eva

Doctors stumble on infection clue to sciatica cure

By Lorraine Fraser, Medical Correspondent Last Updated: 11:54PM BST 14 Jul 2001

DOCTORS believe that half of all cases of the excruciating back pain known as

sciatica could be caused by an infection which is easily cured by antibiotics.

Specialists in Birmingham have found slow-growing bacteria of the kind that

normally lives on the surface of the skin in spinal tissue from nearly 50 per

cent of patients with sciatica.

Related Articles

　

The finding suggests that a course of antibiotics could be all that is needed to

solve the problem for millions of sufferers, revolutionising the way that

doctors treat back pain.

A clinical trial involving hundreds of patients is being set up to test the

hypothesis and the results should be known in 18 months' time.

The NHS spends ££500 million a year on investigations and therapy for patients

with back pain, which is one of the most difficult complaints to treat.

The cost to industry in terms of lost working time is an estimated ££4 billion

annually and the potential savings, should the doctors be proved right, would be

enormous.

Tom Elliott, the professor of clinical microbiology at the University Hospital

in Edgbaston, told The Telegraph that the finding of infection in patients with

sciatica was " very exciting " .

He said: " In terms of future therapy it may mean we could treat this with

antibiotics. It could have a tremendous impact in terms of the management of

patients with back pain and that has large implications for the NHS as a whole. "

Sixteen million people suffer at least one bout of back pain in the UK in any

one year and sciatica - pain in the sciatic nerve which extends down the leg

from the base of the spinal cord - is one of the most common symptoms.

It has traditionally been explained as pressure on the sciatic nerve from a

bulging or " slipped " vertebral disc.

However, until now there has been no explanation for the inflammation which is

frequently present.

Professor Elliot and four colleagues from Aston University and the Royal

Orthopaedic Hospital in Birmingham stumbled across the answer when trying out a

blood test for deep-seated infections in patients, intended to identify

infections of the heart or bone.

They applied the test to sciatica sufferers as a " control " group expecting

negative results in these individuals - only to find that in a third of them it

was positive.

They have examined disc tissue from 180 patients with sciatica so severe that

they needed surgery and found bacterial infection in 46 per cent of them.

The most frequently occurring microbe was Proprionibacterium acnes, a normal

skin bacterium linked to acne.

Professor Elliot said: " We think the organisms are getting into the blood and

settling in this part of the body, perhaps in already damaged discs, setting up

a low-grade infection. "

The theory would explain why some people have slipped discs but do not have

sciatic pain.

The bacteria concerned are all sensitive to common antibiotics.

Tests are under way to see if it is possible to get sufficient drug into the

infected discs to kill the bacteria.

Professor Elliot said: " We suspect that short courses of antibiotics won't work

and sciatica patients may need six weeks of antibiotics, as is the case for

example in bone infection. "

In future it might also be possible to use the blood test to spot those who

might benefit from antibiotic treatment, he added.

A spokesman for the charity BackCare, which helped to fund the research, said:

" This is extremely interesting work and we will be very excited to see the

results of the clinical trial, but we must wait and see. "

　

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1334054/Doctors-stumble-on-infection-clue\

-to-sciatica-cure.html

　

UK News

Get feed updates

News

Get feed updates

External Links

　

Can you catch a bad back? [10 Jul '01] - Aston University

Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, Birmingham - Specialist info

University Hospital, Birmingham

Spine-health.com

　

　

　

　

More on

UK News

Get feed updates

　

　

Something to keep in mind whenever using antibiotics is that they may be more

effective when taken with bromelain. In humans, some undetermined activity of

bromelain has been documented to increase blood and urine levels of antibiotics.

Combining bromelain and antibiotic therapy has been shown to be more effective

than antibiotics alone in treating a variety of conditions including pneumonia,

bronchitis, staph skin infections, thrombophlebitis, cellulitis, pyelonephritis,

perirectal and rectal abscesses, and sinusitis. [Drugs Exp Clin Res 1978;4:

pp.45-8]

　

Pickrell, M.D. (RHU)

The Austin Diagnostic Clinic

12221 Mopac Expressway North

Austin, TX

P: 512-901-4018

From: Sasser <evelynsasser@...>

Subject: Re: rheumatic Enbrel

rheumatic

Date: Tuesday, July 6, 2010, 3:56 PM

Well, I went off the ENBREL and the biaxin for about 15 months, and I finally

did have a serious relapse. I needed to start the drugs when the symptoms

started to appear rather than to wait until they became unbearable. It's a fine

line to walk, unless someone wants to stay on these drugs long-term with no

interruptions. I still struggle with this aspect of treatment. I have been

unable to return to work full-time, and I sometimes have a hard time doing

consulting work at home because I don't feel well. I am going to stay on the

drugs for at least six months this time to see if I can return to normal

mobility and functioning.

And, I hope to find someone who specializes in AP because I think there is good

potential there to control some of these inflammatory/immune system disorders

with antibiotics.

E

________________________________

From: Ken and <kglg@...>

rheumatic

Sent: Tue, July 6, 2010 3:34:56 PM

Subject: Re: rheumatic Enbrel

, I am happy for you that you are getting some relief and have done so

well.

Re: rheumatic Enbrel

While the HLA (B27) factor test is used for diagnostic purposes, a

rheumatologist can also make a diagnosis based on a clinical exam. I tested

negative for the factor but I do have an official diagnosis of AS and the doctor

presented clinical evidence successfully to secure my access to ENBREL. I have

had two doctors now that were able to obtain ENBREL for me through submitting

documentation based on the clinical exam. My doctor, as I mentioned, is very

conservative and I am certain that he would not have made this diagnosis leading

to the prescription of a very expensive drug if he had not believed it was

medically necessary. And, in fact, the ENBREL is the only medication that has

worked to relieve the terrible pain and stiffness that leads to my being

crippled. When I first saw him, I had been confined to bed mainly for three

years. Within a brief time period, I was back on my feet and, in fact, able to

walk 5 to 7 mile hikes within a few months of

therapy. However, I did also have the benefit of antibiotic therapy which

relieved mental confusion, exhaustion and brain fog. I should mention that I

also take nervous system stimulants to counteract the low energy states related

to having an inflammatory disease. And, I take an anti-anxiety medication also.

I could not function withomut the stimulants, and they have become an accepted

part of the therapeutic intervention for inflammatory and related conditions. I

obtain the stimulants and the anti-anxiety medications from a psychiatrist, and

I have never been turned down by a psychiatrist for these meds.

[Guest guest]

HI beth,

What are the archves that you referred to ? I am newly diagnosed and would like

to research the meds. Is that what the archives are? Where would I find them?

Thanks!

Terri

>

> My rheumy has decided to add enbrel to my cocktail of meds (mtx,

> plaquenil). He wAnted to try orencia but since my veins are awful I

> talked him out of that...anyway I searched the archives for some hints

> and tips but there were over 5000 messages so I decided to just ask!

> What are your hints and tips for taking enbrel. I am starting with

> the autoinjector. I know some people like the syringe better but

> that's how I decided to start. Thanks! Of course I feel much better

> just from him telling me, lol.

>

> beth in ny

>

> Sent from my iPod

>

[Guest guest]

was on enbrel for 9 years. started on syringe,then went on autoinjector,likedit

better,had no side effects,stopped working after 9 years

now on orencia 4th infusion not helping at all with my ra.hope this helped

 

ann

nj

From: jenksterri <jenkstl@...>

Subject: [ ] Re: Enbrel

Date: Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 12:06 PM

 

HI beth,

What are the archves that you referred to ? I am newly diagnosed and would like

to research the meds. Is that what the archives are? Where would I find them?

Thanks!

Terri

>

> My rheumy has decided to add enbrel to my cocktail of meds (mtx,

> plaquenil). He wAnted to try orencia but since my veins are awful I

> talked him out of that...anyway I searched the archives for some hints

> and tips but there were over 5000 messages so I decided to just ask!

> What are your hints and tips for taking enbrel. I am starting with

> the autoinjector. I know some people like the syringe better but

> that's how I decided to start. Thanks! Of course I feel much better

> just from him telling me, lol.

>

> beth in ny

>

> Sent from my iPod

>

[Guest guest]

Hi beth - I've been using the Enbrel sure-click pen for over a year now and

so far, so good. I currently take MTX and SSZ too, although my Rheumy said at

the next visit, we will try eliminating the SSZ. I couldn't take Plaquenil.

I let my Sure-Click Pen sit on the kitchen counter for 10-15 minutes before

injecting (set a timer so you don't forget) - it lessens the burn. Also, make

sure the spot you clean with the alcohol wipe is dry. Keep a bandaid dot ready

to go - my spot always bleeds a little afterwards. I use the top of my thighs

for injecting. I can get a firm, solid pressure there and it hurts less than

other places.

I've not used the syringe for the Enbrel, but I do use it for the MTX and either

way is fairly easy. The benefit of the Sure-Click is you don't have to mix or

fill the syringe.

Hope this helps. Best of luck to you..... Doreen

My rheumy has decided to add enbrel to my cocktail of meds (mtx,

plaquenil). He wAnted to try orencia but since my veins are awful I

talked him out of that...anyway I searched the archives for some hints

and tips but there were over 5000 messages so I decided to just ask!

What are your hints and tips for taking enbrel. I am starting with

the autoinjector. I know some people like the syringe better but

that's how I decided to start. Thanks! Of course I feel much better

just from him telling me, lol.

beth in ny

[Guest guest]

I've been on Enbrel for 2 years (50 mg once a week) - started with the auto

injector and switched to the syringe as the auto injector was causing

bruises (and it hurt!) The syringe injection into my stomach area has been

much less painful with almost no injection site reaction. Minimal side

effects from Enbrel but also incomplete control of RA - still on MTX (17.5

mg once a week) and Plaquenil BID - however the Enbrel has definitely

helped, even if not a magic bullet!

Deb

Deborah

(andersondeborah274@...)

[Guest guest]

Hi Vivian....you've come to the right place. LOL I've been on enbrel

since 2005 and it works super for me. if you type in enbrel in the message

search on the r a support website, you'll see a slew of messages about

enbrel. It helped me the next day..sometimes it takes months..everyone is

different. but its been a Godsend for me.

I do the self mix (25 mg) and I inject myself twice a week....the pre mix

(50 mg) is injected once a week....

Hugs and good luck...a

Ohio

In a message dated 9/3/2010 6:37:48 A.M. Eastern Daylight Time,

vcone@... writes:

I am new to this group. I have Lupus and Rheumatoid arthritis. I am on

Plaquenil, Prednisone and Methotrexate. The Methotrexate makes me very sick

and my doctor gave me a shot of Enbrel this week. I guess tomorrow will be

the deciding factor to changed me to this new regimen. Is anyone on Enbrel?

How is it working? Thanks - Vivian

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[Guest guest]

I'm on Enbrel, and it works wonderfully well for me. I no longer have

the morning stiffness, nor do I have much pain from RA. I hope it

works as well for you as it does for me.

Sue

On Sep 2, 2010, at 11:08 PM, Vivian wrote:

> I am new to this group. I have Lupus and Rheumatoid arthritis. I am

> on Plaquenil, Prednisone and Methotrexate. The Methotrexate makes

> me very sick and my doctor gave me a shot of Enbrel this week. I

> guess tomorrow will be the deciding factor to changed me to this new

> regimen. Is anyone on Enbrel? How is it working? Thanks - Vivian

[Guest guest]

Love it!  I think Sue and I would wear Enbrel t-shirts if they made them.

Kate F

________________________________

From: marysue <marysue@...>

Sent: Fri, September 3, 2010 12:31:39 PM

Subject: Re: [ ] Enbrel

 

I'm on Enbrel, and it works wonderfully well for me. I no longer have

the morning stiffness, nor do I have much pain from RA. I hope it

works as well for you as it does for me.

Sue

On Sep 2, 2010, at 11:08 PM, Vivian wrote:

> I am new to this group. I have Lupus and Rheumatoid arthritis. I am

> on Plaquenil, Prednisone and Methotrexate. The Methotrexate makes

> me very sick and my doctor gave me a shot of Enbrel this week. I

> guess tomorrow will be the deciding factor to changed me to this new

> regimen. Is anyone on Enbrel? How is it working? Thanks - Vivian

[Guest guest]

Yes, indeed, we would, Kate.

Sue

On Sep 3, 2010, at 5:13 PM, Fair wrote:

> Love it! I think Sue and I would wear Enbrel t-shirts if they made

> them.

>

[Guest guest]

Sue and Kate,

Thanks for writing me back. I spoke with my doctor and he is starting the

Enbrel as of next wk. I am glad to hear it works.

Vivian

[Guest guest]

Thank you a. I will be starting the treatment on Tuesday. I got my

first shots this week as a trial and it seemed to help for two days. I will

be on that as well as the Methotrexate. I wish he would discontinue the

Methotrexate - that really makes me sick. Will see what he has to say next

week.

Thanks again - Vivian

[Guest guest]

I was on mtx but he took me off of it because of my liver enzymes

increasing. I do fine with enbrel and prednisone..though I'd love to get off

the

pred (5 mg). I hope you can get off the mtx. Fingers crossed.

Hugs..a

In a message dated 9/4/2010 7:27:10 A.M. Eastern Daylight Time,

vcone@... writes:

Thank you a. I will be starting the treatment on Tuesday. I got my

first shots this week as a trial and it seemed to help for two days. I

will

be on that as well as the Methotrexate. I wish he would discontinue the

Methotrexate - that really makes me sick. Will see what he has to say next

week.

Thanks again - Vivian

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nonsubscribers, you must first obtain the writer's permission.

We are NOT physicians. Information on this list is not to be construed

as medical advice, and we cannot guarantee the accuracy and currency

of the information provided.

For archives or to change subscription options:

! Groups Links

[Guest guest]

Way to go Shea, I am glad to know that you now have a plan and that you will be

able to get the medication. I sure hope the Enbrel works well for you and

quickly.

Veri & Jaye 16 poly

enbrel

After speaking with our rhuemy we all decided on Enbrel. I will be started on

Enbrel this Friday and I am taking the injection twice a week. On Friday I will

talk to my rhuemy about the premixed and mixed options. We went ahead and called

the pharmacy, they have to order it before they fill it or something like that.

When we called the pharmacist asked us if the doctor had let us know about the

cost of Enbrel. We knew that Enbrel was super expensive, but I have really good

insurance. My grandma is a teacher and works for a school on the army base.

Which means she has Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal.

The nurses have told us that our insurance is one of the only ones where I don't

need to have insurance approve it before I fill it. We expected that it would

cover almost all of the costs. Although insurance did cover it, we were still

going to have to pay for it, and that wasn't a problem till we were told how

much our co pay was. $480 for ONE month!!!!!!! WHAT?!?! We were taken aback! We

were trying to figure out what we could possibly do to cut down that cost. My

mom's insurance! But her insurance only covers generic brands, and I am 99.9%

sure that there is no generic Enbrel. Then I had a stroke of genius, maybe the

people at Enbrel could help us. We called the hot line and these people are like

awesome.

For the first year of medication they are putting in 8,000 dollars to help out.

Which means we pay zero. We won't have to really worry about all of this for a

year. Later on we will figure out what to do when the year is up, but for now I

am just happy to know that soon things will get better.

If any of you have any last minute advice about the shot or any thing like that

please let me know.

Thank you for your continued support.

Shea Reasoner

[12 polyarticular and pain syndrome]