Nervous

cthornley

My first lot of Humira arrived last week and I’ve just had confirmation that the nurse is coming to show me how to inject tomorrow and I’m a bit nervous.

It’s been a bit of a faff getting here. I really didn't want to go on Anti-tnf (illogical, irrational fear set in) but the mtx just hasn't been cutting it on its own. So went through the DAS tests and screening, found out I had latent TB and am now on horrible, horrible antibiotics to get rid of that :sad:

Then when they phoned to sort out my appointment they told me I couldn't start the Humira whilst I was on antibiotics....back and forth, between healthcare at home, hospital and me and we finally have that sorted - I can start (good thing I questioned them or it would be a further 3 month delay)

Fingers crossed (metaphorically as they keep locking in position whilst writing so avoiding anything more strenuous :shock: ) that this is going to work for me as I’m running out of that optimistic streak that has been keeping me going recently and job, child and life is getting a bit much

Anyway wish me luck

Chrissie

tillytop

Hey Chrissie

I really understand your nervousness about the Humira, having been there myself!

But hopefully it will really help you.

Top tips I discovered: If you take the Humira out of the fridge an hour or so before you do the injection the injection is easier because the liquid is "thinner" when it isn't so cold. Also, if you do find you get itching/swelling around the injection site ask the pharmacist about anti-histamines. I used to take one about 45 mins before the injection and then for the next couple of days if needed and that made the world of difference.

Good luck!

Thinking of you.

Tilly xxx

dreamdaisy

Hi Chrissie, I am sure it will all be fine. I leave the humira out of the fridge for about half an hour, the pre-loaded pens are easy to use but they do give you quite a whack of the stuff - you cannot control the flow at all. Remember to breathe whilst doing the jab - easier said than done however, after over two years of this palaver I still hold mine! I do my injection last thing before bed, that way I have a rest for a few hours which I hope helps it to be extra helpful. Don't expect a complete cessation of pain etc - if that does happen then it will be a lovely surprise. Unlike Tilly I have not, as yet, had any skin reaction to it but I do occasionally get a lovely bruise - that is simply because I hit a blood vessel, that's all. I wish you well. DD

Ankyspond

Hi,

Nervousness understandable, I inject Enbrel (anti TNF) would never have believed I would have been able to do it but like second nature now. As others said take it out the fridge before, also get an ice pack and put on the area before and after lessens the chance of reaction.

I have no side effects and I was scared too of but its about the quality of life you have now you need to focus on, my back, hip pain nearly non exsistent now. xx

ichabod6

This is for Chrissie

The ladies have given you some good tips.
I injected on Sunday mornings after morning prayers and never
had any adverse effects. Humira really worked for me. I had it for
18 months and it restored my flexibility no end. It was stopped
last year when I went into intensive care, and, happily so was
methotrexate.
Altho anti tnfs are the in thing they are not miracle cures.
If they dont work there are other drugs. They are not the end of
the line.
The drug that has been prescribed for my new long term condition
also whacks my ra and I am happy that I now take one major drug
rather than the several of yesteryears.
I'm sure you will post about your progress and I'll follow with
interest.

Take care.

mp1952

Hi chrissie

Best of luck with your first injection. I also ice the injection site for about 10 mins before injecting. It does sting when the injection actually goes in, but it's only for a few seconds..

I do hope it works for you,

I hsve found it absolutely marvellous.. The only side effect has been a persistent runny nose which started 5 days after the first injection..and has continued!

Marion