Question
I suffer with rheumatoid arthritis, and have been on Methotrexate for several years.  I've done pretty well, but recently the pain just isn't letting up.  I've heard that Enbrel mixed with Methotrexate is getting fabulous results.  My question is - is the risk from side effects (which I've heard can be pretty serious) worth the pain relief I'd get?  I'm willing to tough it out, but don't want to if I don't have to.  Any thoughts??

Answer
Amy,

I am sorry to hear that your symptoms are getting worse.

Enbrel is both a wonderful yet scary drug. Wonderful, because many people who use it find a remarkable level of relief. Scary, because of the potential side effects you mention.

While the side effects can be potentially serious, with proper management between you and your doctor you can significantly reduce the risk.

Whether you use it with Methotrexate or alone only you can decide if potential side effects are worth the risk. The best thing to do is to talk with your doctor or Rheumatologist about your treatment options. There are many good treatment options available beyond methotrexate these days. Tell the doctor who is managing your RA that the methotrexate is no longer doing the job. It may be that switching to Enbrel or adding it to Methotrexate can bring you close to a pain free state.

If you try Enbrel or any other immunosuppressant drug you do not have to stay on it.

Rusty