CCP Test

Hi CP,
I think the next step as far as insurance would cover is likely methotrexate,, but I doubt that will prevent joint damage and crippling effects. You may want to investigate a tnf blocker if it is highly aggressive as your Dr thinks it is. Best wishes.
Beth

yes he suggested Leflunimide months ago when I was still having pain and was afraid of the side effects and the Hep C even though in remission, its coming alive again. I'm looking for the best route before crippling sets in which has in my toes and few fingers. MTX is cheap so I do know insurance would cover that and the D-Pennicillamine is 4,000.00 a month. So the only other option is Sulfsalazine or Leflinimide. Anyone been on both to know which is better with Plaquenil. Just seeking opinions and any and all opinions appreciated

Couchtater, What came up first in your list of disorders? Lupus or RAor Fibro. I was diagnosed with Fibro like 17 years ago and then RA/Sjogrens 2 years ago. I am also worried about Lupus. Some of the medication could bring it on. How did happen in your case? Just curious so I know what to look for. I've had a red nose lately for a few months now,

Its a truly ugly disease. When i was finally diagnosed with RA the Rheumy looked at my hands and said I have had RA for a long time. Why it finally came to life, dont know. I have a feeling the Hepatitis C is the culprit. Well it looks like I have 2 choices and I am getting another opinion next week. Either Leflunomide or sulfasalazine. The D-pennacillamine priced out at 4000,00 a month. I have Obama care and to keep the costs down I went with a 12,500 deductable. I truly feel for everybody who has these problems cause everyday its something new to deal with. On top of lifes own stresses it can get over whelming.

Constantpain, I take .5 mg of Alprazolam for sleep on occasion. During flares I use it every night. It's my rule to never use it during the day, because it's basically an anti-anxiety drug that can be habit forming. And I really just need it for sleep. Also - I don't want to develop a tolerance so that it stops working at night. It helps me considerably, though it is not a magic bullet. (Haven't found one of those). On really bad nights when pain has joined the party I also need pain relief med and moist heat pack to find sleep.

I can sometimes take a half pill (.25 mg) before bed when I'm already somewhat sleepy, it's all I need and I wake up feeling less groggy. Your dose just made need adjusting so that you don't feel so tired in the morning. A friend with Lupus has taken Trazadone for years for a sleep aid and has done very well on it. We are all different - don't give up.

And yes, sleep is healing, and we all need it in varying amounts. My mantra as I try to fall asleep is "Rest and Repair". I have also learned that a 10-20 min. "lay down" with or without sleep during the day when feeling fatigued is really helpful. It seems fighting sleep or relaxation when I'm feeling really tired but pushing on in fear I won't sleep at night is counter-productive. Especially when you are very sleep deprived. Best of luck to you - insomnia is rough!