Biologics- Other Options

Hoping1

Hi there,

I have tried 2 biologics, Humira and Cimzia, neither have worked so need to look at next option with rheumatologist on Friday.
I have a contact latex allergy so likes of Embrel weren't on table for me.

I am curious to know where biologics haven't worked for someone whether there have been any other types of treatment put on table as I presume there are new treatments being developed everyday but haven't heard anything outside biologics being offered in last 5-10 years?

I presume they could possibly give me one of IV biologics instead of by injection but just checking out my options.

Many Thanks

[Deleted User]

Hi Hoping1
and welcome to the community. It is a shame that 2 of the biologics have not worked for you, but the good news is that there others to choose from. I don't know if there is an issue with other biologics having latex on the needle cap and tip or not so you will need to check with your rheumaologist.
Here is a link to our fact sheet about some biologics that are given at hospital https://www.arthritiscare.org.uk/do-i-have-arthritis/publications/228-biologic-drugs-for-rheumatoid-arthritis
If you would like more information you can also phone our Helpline on 0808 800 4050
I am sure some members will be along soon to share their experience
Best Wishes
Sharon

trepolpen

there are a list of Biologics our consultant can give you , have you got RA & sero-positive , even if not there or others , I am about to start tofacitinib which is a tablet biologic , was on rituximab & tocilizumab before so dont worry as it should work out well for you

Hoping1

Thanks for info, never heard of biologics in tablet form before, so live in hope of getting one which works for me.

stickywicket

Hoping1 wrote:

I presume there are new treatments being developed everyday

I think you're being a tad optimistic there To the best of my knowledge the latest meds are the bio-similars ie generic biologics but I can't recall anyone writing of meds more advanced than biologics. When I was first diagnosed with R.A. in 1961 my very eminent rheumatologist assured me a cure was 'just around the corner'. I guess they're still looking for the right corner

I get by on DMARDS and have never done biologics.

I know nothing about how reliable the site below is but it does give a list of latex-free biologics and, as you'll be seeing your rheumatologist anyway, I guess you could check it our with him / her.

https://tinyurl.com/y9fjck22

Good luck!

dreamdaisy

The biologics are the latest development - arthritis is an ordinary run-of-the-mill disease that is generally associated with the elderly and using a stick. As diseases go it's not life-threatening (although it can be life-altering and life-limiting) and I think its ubiquity works against it.

My first dose of infliximab was a miracle and misled me into thinking that it would carry on having that effect. I now understand that what I would like to happen and what actually does are in no way related. I am currently on meth and humira and my PsA is very well controlled: that is as good as it gets. I still flare, I am still in pain (some of which is my OA) and I still get very, very tired but that is the nature of the beast. Regarding the tablet form of biologics, that was being researched / developed at least ten years ago. Like us arthritics the medical R&D world moves slowly. DD