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Biologics not working.

So after 7 years of my AS diagnosis, 6 years of changing my diet, and now at least 4 years of biologic medications. Methotrexate was like carpet bombing my entire system & made days unbearable. Humira didn't help with pain and added headaches. That lead to Enbrel, which caused even worse body pain & migraines. Enbrel not seeming like the best option either, I've been on Cosentyx since. I still experience severe ribcage pain that hurts just laying to sleep, or even take a deep breath for about a week after my shots for the month. Not without the headaches either. None of these medications have seemed to help my pain at all. My doctor doesn't have any answers on why this would be happening. Am I on the wrong medication? Am I the only one in worse pain after a biologic shot? And how do I know which to try? Any and all shared info is greatly appreciated! And good luck to everyone.

  1. I've not been diagnosed with AS as of yet. Had mri and wilk get results thrusday. I do deal with the pain you all are facing. I was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis when I was 24. Im 61 now. I have been on enbrel, humira, otezla, cosentyx, taltz, cosentyx, tremfya, skyrizi, and wilk go back to tremfya again next month. These quit working after a few years also. Tremfya was an insurance take away.
    So I told you my story to let you no that biologics stop working in us all, no matter what infirmity we may face. Hold on my friends

    1. Humira=Enbrel=Remicaide all TNF blockers wouldn’t it make sense they all stopped working. Why don’t we have testing for which cytokine that causes symptoms? It’s a shotgun approach to treating this! We need individualized approach!

      1. Interesting point. More research is needed in so many areas. All the best, Kathy (Team member)

    2. ,,
      I'm sorry to hear your biologic(s) journey has been a challenging one.
      Unfortunately, there is no "one size fits all" when it comes to AxSpA treatment.
      For many in this community, it has been a trial and error. Many have gone through numerous treatment options before finding the right fit.
      This article may provide some helpful information on treatment options: https://axialspondyloarthritis.net/treatment/biologics-biosimilars
      In the meantime, I will be keeping you in my thoughts as you continue to search for the best treatment for you.
      My best, Doreen (Team Member)

      1. Oh friend, - I understand. I have gone through this cycle of medications not helping, making symptoms worse, and feeling awful for years. Don't give up. I tried 4 biologics (injections and infusions) and on my 5th try, I found relief on a new (DMARD. Don't stop moving - you deserve to feel better. I do hope others log on and share their experiences with you, to give you hope and to help keep pushing you forward through your chronic illness journey. Thinking of you - Rebecca (team member)

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