Kickas.org Forums Ankylosing Spondylitis General Discussion #1 AS Web Support Group New Drug Kineret

Hi everybody. Hope everyone is feeling well. I have been very busy in my work and have not been able to send any messages, although I log on as much as I can. Still having foot problems, stiff neck, back etc. Rhumy put me on enbrel, but I have been on the waiting list for 5 weeks now. I called the manufacturer yesterday, said highly unlikely that it would get filled in March due to the fact they are filling no new prescriptions at this time. Rhumy wants me to take a new drug called Kinerex. Anyone know anything about this drug????

Sincerely,


Todd

Todd,

Kineret functions by blocking IL-1. Here is a description of it from the drug's website:

"Kineret™ is a man-made protein that is similar to a naturally occurring protein called Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) found in the body. In people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the body produces too much of certain proteins that lead to joint damage. One of these proteins is called Interleukin-1 (IL-1). Too much IL-1 contributes to the pain, swelling, and stiffness associated with RA. Kineret™ can block the action of IL-1."

Obviously it's being marketed for RA sufferers at this time, but I am assume the premise is the same for AS. It can "buddied up" with any other DMARD EXCEPT FOR Enbrel or Remicade to increase effectiveness. The use of Kineret and Enbrel/Remicade is contraindicated. Hope this helps.


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Kristin

TODAY IS NOT A DRESS REHEARSAL!!

Thanks for the advice. Don't know what to do. I am not too fond of needles, and this drug has to be injected every day.

Paul, Thanks for finding that so fast. Found the web site that has all the information the drug manufacturer wants you to know. Thanks-- Todd

Todd,

I inject MTX once per week... Never thought I could do it. Don't worry, Kineret using an auto-injector. It will be much easier since you don't have to actually load the syringes. You just touch the injector to your skin and press a button, small pinch, and you're done. I am sure they will go over the procedure thoroughly with you, a few times in the office, until you feel comfortable doing it yourself. I had someone come with me to these 'training sessions' so that if I chickened out at home or was sick, they could do. Nice to have a back-up plan!

And the day you first inject... It is so empowering to know that you just did!!!

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Kristin

TODAY IS NOT A DRESS REHEARSAL!!

I'm sorry to hear that you can't get the Enbrel. It has been the first ray of light in my life for a long time. I have been on the waiting list since November, then found out my insurance wouldn't pay for it. Through a miracle, I ended up in a study. First heard about it on the 14th of January, screened on the 23rd, and started the injections on the 30th. Of course there was a chance that I could end up with a placebo. Maybe your doctor should try for Remicade or find out if there are any more slots left in clinical trials for Enbrel or Remicade. Good luck in whatever you do.

Hugs,

Cindy