Hi, Betty,
This was a study/rheumy visit(s). They are extending the study another 6 months, and have requested FDA approval of Enbrel for AS. The release forms were not available yet, but will be soon.
My study coordinator seems to think that I'm just in a flare. And Enbrel is not a cure; we were told that from the beginning. So flares could happen anyway. I'm still stiff in the mornings, but it's not like the rigor mortis stuff I had before starting Enbrel. So maybe the Enbrel is still helping me. It's hard to say. I seriously considered dropping out, but I know that if I do, I can't go back. There really are no other meds that fit my allergies and my budget.
I've already tried them all, dozens of different NSAID's, sulfasalazine, methotrexate. And they didn't think I would be a good candidate for Arava, because of my allergies. So hopefully this is just a flare.
Got another rx for the vicodin 750. And taking that and the muscle relaxer has made my blood pressure drop to normal.
If I can keep my pain at tolerable levels, I think I can tough it out for a while. I'll probably not be doing the 6 month extension, unless I get out of this flare within the next 3 months. I've not had any side effects to speak of, and that is also something to consider. And I hate to make this kind of decision when I'm in pain and so emotional.
I'm glad you're doing better, now it's my turn.
Hugs,
Cindy
Life may not be the party we hoped for, but while we are here we might as well dance.
