After a very nasty flare-up, my wife was put on Infliximab (Remicade). When she first used it (at 2 weeks, than at 4 then at 8), she felt well. Then things stopped being so great. She is taking it at 4 weeks now but still not feeling well. The blood tests showed that she has developed some antibodies and that the concentration of infliximab in her system is rather small.
What is usually done in these situation? Increase the dosage of Methotrexate (now at 5x2.5/week) or the frequency of infliximab?
Reply posted for Galen.
Instead of an alternate medication, I was told it would be an increase in dosage of Remicade if the tests were showing antibodies. If that still wasn't working, then yes it would be a switch to entivyo in my case.
In addition I have to mention today it seems like there's an additional issue with Remicade and the antibodies - the insurance companies are denying the antibody tests left and right. Aetna in my case has a medical bulletin saying the tests are of no clinical value in ALL CASES. So they deny it 100% of the time and make you go through multiple level appeals. I'm still fighting that case.
Reply posted for akr008.
Thank you for your suggestions!
Reply posted for Lynn.
Thank you, Lynn, for your advice and your encouragement.
I have forwarded my wife your advice.
Good luck to you!
Reply posted for Galen.
Hi. I have been on remicade for one year. Dosage now at highest milligrams and every 6 weeks x 3 doses. Sigmoid yesterday showed UC had progressed from moderate to severe. Doc is changing me to entyvio. Have taken Lilada at highest dose x2 yrs. Doc is stopping that and we are going to Balsalsazide. Am hopeful that this change will be the magic for me. Have not been in remission since diagnosed in 2015. I just turned 59 and before this UC had no health problems at all. Doc did mention going every 4 was on the remicade to me but I think the sigmoid proved that it is not the answer for me. I do wish your wife all the best. Tell her it is hard to keep a good women down!
Reply posted for Galen.
Hi. I have been on remicade for one year. Dosage now at highest milligrams and every 6 weeks x 3 doses. Sigmoid yesterday showed UC had progressed from moderate to severe. Doc is changing me to entyvio. Have taken Lilada at highest dose x2 yrs. Doc is stopping that and we are going to Balsalsazide. Am hopeful that this change will be the magic for me. Have not been in remission since diagnosed in 2015. I just turned 59 and before this UC had no health problems at all. Doc did mention going every 4 was on the remicade to me but I think the sigmoid proved that it is not the answer for me. I do wish your wife all the best. Tell her it is hard to keep a good women down!
Reply posted for Galen.
With the development of antibodies usually a physician will suggest trying an alternative medication such as humira, cimzia or entyvio.
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