DMARDS

For most people, the benefit of taking an approved drug outweighs its possible side effects. 

Although side effects can develop within the first six to nine months of treatment, the risk declines with continued use, especially if the drug is improving your condition. 

Injection Site Reactions 

Injection site reactions are fairly common, especially at the beginning of your treatment. Injection site reactions include 

• Redness. 

• Swelling. 

• Itching. 

• Pain. 

Most reactions clear up without treatment, but you can use a cold compress, topical corticosteroids, oral antihistamines or acetaminophen to ease discomfort. If symptoms persist past 5 days or get worse, call your doctor. You should also change the spot where you inject yourself each time.  

If your biologic is given as an infusion, the clinic or facility will begin by getting your vital signs – temperature, blood pressure and pulse. A health professional will continue to monitor you during and after the infusion until you leave the facility. 

Before your scheduled biologic infusion, you may receive “pre-meds,” such as an antihistamine, antiemetic (for nausea) or an anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). These will prevent any mild reactions, such as  

• Pain. 

• Swelling. 

• Redness at infusion site. 

• Headache. 

• Flushing. 

• Nausea. 

• Rash.  

If any of the following more serious reactions occur, the infusion can be stopped and the reaction will be treated on site: 

• Difficulty breathing. 

• Chest pain or tightness. 

• High or low blood pressure. 

• Swelling of face and hands. 

• Fever. 

• Chills. 

• Anaphylaxis. 

Because biologic therapies suppress the immune system, treatment leaves you more prone to infection. The most common are colds, upper respiratory tract infection, sinus infection, sore throat, bronchitis or urinary tract infections. 

Tips for avoiding infections: 

• Wash hand frequently. 

• Avoid crowded areas, enclosed spaces, public transportation and childcare facilities. 

• Tell friends and family not to visit if they are sick. 

• Talk to your doctor before scheduling vaccinations, dental appointments or manicures. 

• Do not share cups, utensils or personal items. 

• Do not swim in lakes, rivers, ponds or public pools. Avoid hot tubs. 

• Ask your doctor about contact with your pets. It’s probably a good idea not to change cat litter or to clean up after the dog. Birds, fish, rodents, reptiles and farm animals should be avoided. 

• Check with your doctor about whether it’s safe to work in the garden with soil or mulch. 

• Avoid unpasteurized food, raw eggs or fish, soft cheeses and shellfish. 

There are a number of non-drug remedies you can try to combat queasiness. 

• Place a cold compress on your forehead. 

• Lie down in a dark, quiet room. 

• Avoid heat, humidity and stuffy rooms. 

• Breathe fresh air deeply through your nose; sometimes inhaling peppermint or drinking ginger tea helps. 

• Suck on ice or sip cool water. Nibble on a saltine cracker if you think your stomach can handle it. Avoid sugary drinks or snacks. 

A key piece of advice is to listen to your body. The following symptoms are signs of an infection or a more serious condition and you should contact your doctor right away: 

• Fever, sweat or chills. 

• Cough. 

• Muscle aches, weakness/numbness or tingling. 

• Shortness of breath or chest pain. 

• Rash or painful sores; warm, red or painful skin. 

• Diarrhea or stomach pain. 

• Burning during urination or urinating more than normal. 

• Unusual fatigue. 

• Vision problems or dizziness. 

• Poor appetite or weight loss. 

• Bleeding or bruising easily.