How much information they gave you about the Humira?
Quite a lot actually. I was amazed it was so different from the Methotrexate where you get sort of this, you know, you get like a photocopied sheet don't you with things on it. You know, information on it. But with Humira I suppose because, you know, it is a big company, big bucks, you get, you know, everything sort embossed and you know, you get a little calendar when it is due and yes, I got a lot of information actually and it was easy to understand as well, you know.
As usual I Googled and I you know, I started looking at the disadvantages of it, but then I worked out that I don't really have a choice, because if I want to get on with my life, then this is the drug I need to take. You know, there are side effects with any drugs. I mean look at the side effects of paracetamol. So, yes…
And what did you find out regarding sort of side effects?
I mean I suppose the biggest one is you increase your risks of other infections. And if you catch infections they could be a lot more long lasting so you have to be quite astute at thinking hang on I have had this cough for two weeks now. I need to go down to the GP's, perhaps start some antibiotics. Rather than before you would have just got over it. I noticed that. It is niggly things but nothing major.
I think there is an increased risk of lymphoma isn't there? Which is fun. But I think it is about 1% or something, you know, I am more probably at risk of getting run over by a bus really, so… You have to take it in context. It is, it sounds dramatic, but it has actually given me my life back. You know, the fortnightly injection is enabling me to have a really good life and I have reduced my analgesics as well. Halved those, so… yes. It is good stuff.
Okay so it seems that you are not terribly sort of concerned about long term effects? Would you say that? Or have you put it into perspective?
I think I have put it in perspective. Because I am concerned. I think sometimes if you find me [coughs] if you find looking through the BNF about the side effects of everything. And I do sometimes think oh God I don't want this, that and the other. But you have got to get it in context. If I am not on it I am not going to have a life. You know, the Methotrexate is not working and Methotrexate has, you know, side effects. They all do. But you have to get it in context. I mean, I think I look quite well. I think I have… you know, my friends can't believe how well I look, and one of my friends said to me a couple of days ago, “Oh you look as though there is nothing wrong with you.” Which I thought was great. But no the anti-TNF is wonderful stuff. |
