[cblaesing]

Re: Rheumatoid arthritis drugs and smoldering myeloma

by cblaesing on Thu Jul 25, 2019 10:02 pm

Hi Multibilly,

I hope I can shed some light on your questions regarding rheumatiod arthritis and smoldering myeloma

I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in 2007, caught very early and started with the typical treatment of methotrexate, Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine), sulfasalazine, etc., but within a year I was started on Enbrel (etanercept), which proved to be a godsend for me. To date, I have no joint damage after approximated 8-9 years. I'm still smoldering since September 2016.

In 2016, I was diagnosed with IgG lambda smoldering multiple myeloma, and my numbers have remained rather stable while I am monitored closely. My primary issues have been unrelenting fatigue and bone pain, which of course is significantly complicated by the rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis. Shortly after, I also was diagnosed with osteoporosis. I receive quarterly infusions of Zometa.

About two months ago, Enbrel stopped working, which in past years sent me directly to the emergency room, the pain unbearable. My oncologist and rheumatologist determined the best option would Rituxan (rituximab). I had my first 4-hour infusion yesterday and slept through almost 2 hours. I go back in two weeks, repeat, and depending on how and if I react, they'll speed it up and repeat the process twice a year.

Good luck to you!

Colleen