Sandy's had R.A. for many, many years. She has been seeing a specialist regularly since the arthritis started causing her problems (this dates back into the 1970s). He tried various meds, etc., one after the other, with only marginal success. "Well, let's try this one now" became the norm, trying to find something that would give her some relief. Then along came Remicade.......it's been a lifesaver for her. See
http://www.remicade.com/ . I believe it was originally developed as a treatment for Crohn's Disease and colitis but a side benefit was found to be how it helped R.A. sufferers. Sandy has the I.V. treatments every 8 weeks in an outpatient treatment center (in OH). She's been receiving the treatments for around 7 years and has suffered no ill effects. It works for her!! Her joint swelling/enlargement is practically gone and she's able to live a virtually pain-free existence now.
On the down side...................the cost is horrific - the charge is something in the neighborhood of $3,200 to $3,400....per treatment!
Boy Howdy! After negotiated insurance rates come into play, it still costs us $300-400 each time after deductibles are met. Not inexpensive. Small price to pay, though, for her much improved quality of life.
Bill
