Remicade joint pain!

I have had CD for about 3 1/2 years now and have been receiving remicade infusions every 8 weeks for 7 months. A few months back I was having an itching patch on my thigh that I thought nothing of. It was during the winter months and I just assumed it was a dry patch from the coldness. I didn't tell my doctor and continued the infusions. Last infusion was on just under 2 weeks ago and I started experiencing sever joint pain, fever, muscle weakness and headaches. All of which I am not used to feeling whatsoever. I am now on prednisone for 10 days to try and get some relief. Seems to be working a little, but at least I'm not as bad as I was 3 days ago. Still having trouble walking and having energy to do an 8 hour day at work, but I'm pushing through. I am really scared at what's next. My Doc told me to cancel my next infusion and see him in a few weeks when he is back in town. Has anyone else experienced this recently with Remicade? I'd love some insight...

MandeeJeanne

CD for 3 1/2 years
Asacol/prednisone for 2 1/2 years
Remicade for 7 months
Back to prednisone for the time being...

Hey MJ..I am going through the exact same thing at the moment. Two infusions ago, I had a reaction while I was there...hives, trouble breathing the whole bit but got a hefty shot of Benadryl and I was able to finish. For the last infusion less than two weeks ago, I took two Benadryl before hand and also had the anti-body test done right before. I was fine, no reactions until this past weekend. I literally could not move my body. My joints were in a lot of pain, had a fever, felt like I was running into a wall and developed a rash over most of my body. I got the results from the anti-body test yesterday and it came back positive so I will not be able to take Remicade anymore. They are starting the paperwork for Humira this week. Maybe have your doc run the test to see what it says?? I hear you about  the 8 hour day, I am currently at work ( oops)  and cannot believe it is only 12:45!!!! Good Luck

It was pretty interesting because when I had the reaction, I had already done 5 infusions. They were surprised it came that late. I had to do the anti-body test the morning of my infusion so they could see the status of the anti-bodies at 8 weeks then had to wait a week to get the results back. I currently have the rash on my thighs too. Thanks for the well wishes and I agree, it feels so good to know that there are other people out there going through the same thing.