Two Humira related questions

Hi all,

1) When I started my Humira, the nurse told me the doctors would order blood tests every 3 months or so to keep everything in check and watch out for signs of lymphoma. I began Humira in October and haven't been back to the GI since--they haven't made any effort to make an appointment or tell me I need to come in. I haven't had any blood work done since the summer. Should I call to schedule some?

2) I was supposed to take my Humira tonight, but can't find any alcohol swabs! Grr, I'll have to do it tomorrow evening, then. I'm know one day won't make a difference but for future reference, how long can you be between shots before the effectiveness of the medicine starts diminishing?

Thanks!

I've been on Humira since July and have only had labs done once, I think.  My GI just likes to do them every other appointment or so, which are usually about 4 months apart.  But, most of what you read says you should have them more often, so it wouldn't hurt to call your doctor's office and ask. 

mkl11, does your Humira not come with alcohol swabs?  The boxes I receive already have alcohol swabs in them.  My shots only work for about a week and the second week I can really feel each day that it's wearing off more.  I've inquired about weekly shots but my docs 9both GI and rheumy) say they can't get them approved by insurance for more than bi-weekly.  But, I don't understand because a lot of people get them weekly. 

thanks aimee and zena! might as well go ahead. i was hesitating at first because those co-pays add up, but as long as the labwork is normal i'm guess i won't need an appointment.

zena--yes they do but the second one disappeared! this was annoying to find out at 11 pm...oh well, i picked some up today.

When I got my loading doses, the nurse told me that cleaning with soap and water was fine and that I didn't need to use an alcohol swab. I was surprised and later asked a friend who is a nurse and she said that it was true. She told me that if I did use the alcohol to wait at least 30 seconds for the alcohol to dry. I haven't used an alcohol swab once, just good old liquid Dial and warm water! I figure it must be ok because I know alot of diabetics who don't swab before pricking their fingers or arms, they just wash up first!