Arthritis Update

[amani_gamal]

so i went to the rhuematologist today. its the first i have seen her in a long time because i had surgery. so the surgeon said id have to ask the rhuemy for more pain meds. this was around the 26th of january. she gave me 30 percs and i had to see her for more. which brings me to today

Comments

[funnel101]

I'd suggest you try the Enbrel. I've been on it for 8 years now and it's worked really well for me. I also have an immune deficiency. I try to avoid taking Enbrel if I'm sick, but I've honestly not had a whole lot of trouble with it. What biologic did you try?

[amani_gamal]

i was on humira for a while it i had a bad experience with it. i know you post a lot about medicare, does it cover enbrel?

[funnel101]

Ooh, Humira was terrible for me. Worst physical pain I've been in EVER doing that shot. And it didn't work for me at all. Enbrel's much better. The 50 mg shot stings a little going in, but it's really not that bad if you let it warm to room temperature. The 25 mg doesn't sting at all, but I got much worse site reactions with that one. I'd have big red spots that would last for a week. So I'd recommend you try the 50mg.

Most Medicare Part D plans will cover Enbrel, but some cover it only with a percentage and some with co-pays. All will require at least prior authorization from your rheumy. Medicare does have the coverage gap, though, so after the total drug cost is $2510 (Enbrel's about $1500/month), you have to pay out of pocket until $4050 before they start covering you again.

But I'd try it for now. And if it works and you really can't afford it during the coverage gap, I'd check out the charity Patient Access Network. If you qualify financially, they'll pay $4000 towards your prescription expenses each year.

[amani_gamal]

thanks for the info!