(No Subject)

After much thought and deliberation I have decided to follow through with the Rituxan therapy that my doctor is proposing.  I have gotten so Prednisone dependent that I can't seem to function without it.  Every time we get down to 5 mg., my symptoms come roaring back full force.  I have been developing side effects to the medication-weakened bones, heavy bruising, stomach problems-that sometimes comes with long time steroid use, so my decision to try something else was relatively easy to make.  I have exhausted all of the other possibilties.  Cell cept had been a god-send, but I experienced severe bone marrow suppression from it.  I can't take NSAIDs and Methotrexate made me quite ill.  My body loves Prednisone and I have done quite well with it.  Too bad it has such horrid side effects with long term use.  I am waiting to hear back from my insurance company and we will go from there.  I have to admit that I am a little leery of this new medication, but after researching it and getting a second opinion, I thought it was the best way for me to go.  I want to keep feeling well and not getting so sick all of the time.  Any thoughts from any other forum members would be greatly appreciated!!

Hi Butterflake,

       Currently, I am tapering off the Prednisone to get ready for the Rituxan.  I am down to 10mg one day and 0mg the next.  Each time I lower the Prednisone, my body, which LOVES Prednisone, goes through some unhappy times.  Thankfully, it doesn't last long.  My Rheumy and I are just waiting to hear back from the insurance company to get the green light to proceed with the Rituxan.  I met one woman who has had remarkable luck with this drug.  I had misgivings at first because of all the possible side effects, but realized that all medicines have their good and not so good aspects.  Thanks for your thoughts!