Help - need information and suggestions - new RA diagnosis/TNF blockers

I was diagnosed with RA this spring. Low dose of pred (2.5mg) a day and an attempt at sulfasalazine were my initial meds. However, the sulf made me really sick so i was cut back to one pill 2x a day. The pred does keep my symptoms in check meaning I can move around and do what I need to do.

Today, it was suggested that I try a biologic. I was given drug company literature on humira, enbrel, and cimzia. I need to make a choice as to which one I would like to try and call back so that insurance approval can be started.

They did not feel that I would benefit from plaqinel (sp?) and would like me to try this.

I realize this is a significant step for me and would like to make an informed decision and drug company literature is not my thing. I have done some internet searches. It seems these are all fairly equal in discomfort and side effects.

I am a teacher so moving and being mobile are important. I also have a competitive golfer who I like to follow around the course - so far I have made it through both his tournaments this summer (a bonus as I did not think it possible).

I should also add that this rheumy is not big on MTX especially since I have had some relief with sulfasalazine and pred. I am positive rheumatoid factor (77) and have a high sed rate (which does fluctuate between normal and high)

What are thoughts on these three meds that would be helpful to me in making my choice.

I was stunned by the prices of these meds and am glad I have good insurance that will require me to use a specific pharmacy (but with just a $10 co pay)!!

Thanks in advance.

Hey cnymomof2! I have been on Humira for a little less than a year. I haven't had any problems with it. I started on 20 mg prednisone and gradually lowered the dosage. While still on it I added the following in the order given: prednisone, plaquenil, methotrexate, humira. I am still on all of those but the prednisone is down to 2.5 mg. It was just with the last blood work that I had done that I finally had good numbers and no inflammation. My energy level is good now, too. Most of this is trial and error. I wish you the best of luck.

Kim