starting Remicade

I've decided to move forward with starting remicade.  My doc wants to do a Colonoscopy first to see how things look before hand (early april) than I should start my first infusion shorty there after.

Couple questions for those who are using it.

1.  Does it take effect quickly? Will I feel better after the first one?

2.  What side effects do you feel immediately afterwards, can you do to work that day if you do it in the morning?

3.  Does it help with weight?  I bounce around from 180-170 when I'm flaring?

4.  Is this the last option for surgery?

I just had my first remicade treatment last week. i went to lunch right after and almost fell asleep at the table. I went home and took a short nap and was fine. No effect yet. My Gi said that most people don't feel an effect until after the second or third treatment, though some do after the first. I have my next infusion on the 13th then one a month after that. I don't know if it helps with weight but i know it's suppose to help get me off pred which in turn will effect my weight for the better!

Oh and there are trials going for Humira for UC which you may consider before surgery.

I've been on Remicade for over 2 years now.  I've had extremely positive results.  For me - after the 2nd infusion I stared seeing a decrease in bathroom trips - but it took until the 3rd until I was sure I was really headed towards remission.  It does make me quite tired for the next few days but afterwards - I am much better.  I'm still able to do what I have to do - just more slowly - and I go to bed early.  If your doc is going to pre-medicate with benadryl first you will be even more tired.  Haven't found any positive or negative effect with weight.  Except as kb said - I've gotten off the pred and have been losing all that weight.  As for the last step before surgery, there is still Humira coming out - and they are always working on new drugs to help.  I wouldnt' worry about that yet - first see if the Remicade works for you.

I have been on Remicade for 2 years with great results & absolutely no side effects. I did take Benedryl before each infusion that would wipe me out. Now I take Claritin & no tiredness at all. I can get up & do anything I want & not feel a bit tired. I have my infusions at home so I get to relax the entire time. I also get a steroid before each infusion which may be another reason I don't feel tired.