Drug Dilemma -- What to take or not to take?

[Guest guest]

Hi All,

I stopped my low dose of prednisone (3mgs. daily) because of fear of long-term

side-effects. My rheumy wanted me to stay on it indefinitely. I have osteopenia

(pre-oeteoporosis) in my left foot, and the beginnings of cataracts. But since

I'm 69, maybe these are related to age. I'm also on MTX (15mgs. weekly) which is

helping. (I've had RA for two years).

We tried raising my MTX but it didn't make much of a difference. My symptoms

(such as bicep pain and slight wrist weakness) are worse but not horrible. Maybe

just live with them, but then maybe the RA will cause damage to wrists or

something?

The doc wants me to go back on the 3mgs. prednisone. I mentioned Enbrel and

other biologics, but we thought they wouldn't be a good idea. That's because it

looks like I already have a somewhat weak immune system as evidenced by the fact

I've had Multiple Chemical Sensitivities for a number of years (before RA) and

in the winter can get various symptoms like fatigue and sweating if I'm not

careful.

I'm thinking maybe go back on the 3mgs. prednisone and get periodically

monitored for the cataracts and osteoporosis. If either gets worse then stop the

prednisone.

Not sure if there are any other drugs that should be considered in lieu of the

3mgs. prednisone. (Sulfasalazine? Plaquenil? Something else? Just live with the

symptoms and hope the RA does not do damage?)

So, would appreciate any thoughts or info anyone has on any of the above.

Best to everyone,

Ira Brightman