How many biologics have you tried until you found the right one for you?

I tried Humira, Enbrel, Cimzia and Simponi. Now that I am on Simponi Aria infusions I have less overall pain, less spine and SI pain. It hasn’t helped fatigue but I’m not greedy. I too only get about 6 weeks of relief but I value those 6! I haven’t talked to my rheumatologist about that. Guess I’ve been assuming it takes a week to kick in and that it’s like with pain medication—once it starts wearing off, you take the next dose. you’ve given me something to think about and discuss with my rheumatologist.

thank you for asking this question. Yes it seems it can take some time to find the right biologic treatment that works. I have tried two and the second one was the good one!
First I was on Embrel which worked well for me but I had a skin allergy to the injection. I could feel the benefit quite quickly by taking this one as you inject weekly, but I had to stop because of the allergy reaction to it. After few weeks of Embrel, I switched to Humira and never looked back. It was also effective quickly I think, within a few weeks. I feel very lucky to have this medication which still works six years later.
I am glad you are taking a biologic which sounds effective for you.
Take care,
Julie.

Biologics are definitely a trial-and-error medication. It has taken me approximately 4 years to get results. I have tried Humira, Enbrel, and Simponi Aria. The first two didn't work at all and I used the Humira for a total of 6 months and Enbrel 3 months to see if it would kick in and ease my pain. But nothing, no help whatsoever. I really questioned my AS diagnosis, as nothing was helping. But I was encouraged to try the next biologic. Simponi Aria infusion every 8 weeks did help, but only got 4-6 weeks of relief - so was on a roller coaster of pain and flares. I did use it for about a year and a half. I started my 4th biologic, Remicade infusions, last year (2019/2020) and it is the best so far. I get a loading dose of 5 mg/kg IV given at 0, 2, and 6 weeks and then every 6 weeks at my rheumatologist infusion center. So far, much better energy, kicking my fatigue down a notch or two, and the pain has decreased in all my joints. It's not gone, but lower than without treatment. Definitely speak with your physician if you feel you are not adequately controlled. Having a good working relationship with him/her is essential to your quality of treatment.