Tired of being sick...Remicade.........does it work?

Fortunately, Remicade has been able to mostly control my symptoms for about 4-6 weeks post-infusion (I get double dosage every 8 weeks).  The last weeks before treatment are always dangerous for me, since symptoms often come back in full force but my insurance is unwilling to allow for more frequent treatment.

I was taken off of Remicade for a few months and my symptoms returned but quickly dissipated after starting treatment once again.  I have not experienced any side effects of treatment yet and I started in August 2005.

I know this treatment is not as effective for everybody but it has treated me pretty well so far.  Hope things work out for you!

I've been on Remicade since 2002, and it has been my wonder drug. I was in full flare, major GI bleeding and looking at certain surgery. As a last resort, my GI had them give me my first infusion while in the hospital. I started to improve pretty quick. Other than an obstruction type flare, I've been doing fine ever since. I was hospitalized for the obstruction flare, and they decided to double my dose. I get 1000mg every 8 weeks. It is pretty common for symptoms to start returning towards the end of the cycle, but that just reminds me of how well it works.

Remicade doesn't work for everyone. Some have even had some bad reactions to it. Keep in mind that while it may seem like a lot of people have had problems, it's just that those of us who are doing fine are out living life. All medications have risks, and Remicade is no different. If Remicade doesn't work, there are other variations, and more coming out all the time. Humira and Cimzia are the other two, and there are more coming. So, if Remicade doesn't work, don't give up!