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Remicade - what to ask?

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Ulcerative Colitis
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Posted 10/19/2009 4:05 PM (GMT 0)
Hey guys,
going to see my Doc today and im going to inquire about Remicade. I've researched it a little, but I still dont really even know what to ask the doc. any pointers from those of you who have had the treatment?

I have the basic questions ready: How long is the treatment, what it involved, what are the prerequisites, insurance/cost questions, etc... but without being to familiar with the procedure, i dont know what else to ask.

thanks guys.
Posted 10/19/2009 4:41 PM (GMT 0)
Ask if he uses premedication to help prevent reactions - many GI's give an antihistamine such as Zyrted or Benadryl and Tylenol before the infusion.
Ask about emergency procedures in the facility where you will have the infusions, in the unlikely even you have an adverse reaction.
Ask if the infusion center has television, wifi, if you can bring a portable DVD player, etc.
Consider visiting the site where you will get your infusion beforehand. I'm usually very warm natured and never cold, but my center is kept very cold, and the pitiful blankets they give me are not much help. I've taken to wearing long sleeves, and they can just figure out how to get that IV in my hand instead of my arm.

When I go, I take my ipod with music that relaxes and soothes me. I read some, but mostly I lay back, listen to peaceful music and just sort of meditate.

Good luck, and I hope it works for you as well as it has for me.
Posted 10/19/2009 9:20 PM (GMT 0)
Ask about all the places you can go, and then call and get prices. The differences can be huge! Infusion centers are cheaper than hospitals, generally.
And, of course, know what your insurance will cover.

Everything else you can find out here!
My infusion takes about three hours total. They put the needle in the back of my hand, and do a great job because it never even leaves a mark. They take samples of blood to test, and gave me benedryl just in case I had an allergic reaction (I didn't and don't get it anymore). then they attach the IV bag, liquid gold. I'm alone in a very small treatment room, and I have them turn off the florescent light and keep the door open, because treatment room light is harsh, especially when you are laying back in a lounge chair. They come in to take my blood pressure regularly (with a wrist thing), so it's hard to sleep. I usually read newspapers and work stuff (they provide a desk lamp), and bring something to drink. Then I'm on to the rest of my day. Infusions cost me about $350 in co-pays.
Posted 10/21/2009 12:27 PM (GMT 0)
If you decide to go with Remicade, ask about the RemiStart program. Go online to get details. They offer a rebate to help with costs thru Centacor, their parent company.
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