Infliximab / Remicade feedback

I've been on it since july 2009 and it has helped my symptoms but it isn't healing my colon. I'm having another scope soon and we will find out for sure. my last scope was in March 2010 and it showed no improvement. I don't really want to go off it because it has helped my symptoms and I have a life somewhat.

I would get premedicated before your infusions. I get two tylenols extra strength and hydrocrotisone.  Before each infusion.  I had a reaction my first infusion and now I get pre medicated and I go very slow with the iv. Most people are out of there in two hours I'm there from 9-3.  It has helped though.  I have to take prilosec because I get heart burn from it and I take zyrtex because I get a rask from it.  I also get some joint pain.

I'm not saying this to scare you I would try it but letting you know my story so it helps you.

Let us know what you decide.

I was on Remicade for 2.5 years and discontinued because of side effects. I developed a form of psoriasis with severe enthesitis (tendonitis) that is associated with use of Remicade in individuals who have a family history of psoriasis (which I do). Researchers are now recognizing this side effect and I hope this is translating to physicians in educating their patients before starting the drug. Remicade has been very helpful for many people but does have a significant risk profile. I believe Remicade helped save my colon as I went into remission soon after starting infusions but it came with a cost. Since stopping the Remicade, these side effects have improved and most studies say that once discontinuing Remicade, the side effects resolve. This resolution does take time.

Good luck