I have had rheumatoid arthritis for 15 years and now have deformities in my limbs and wrists. My current medicines are not helping much. My doctor has suggested Intacept 25 mg injections, but also warned about side effects. Should I continue my current treatment or start this injection? What would be the right choice in my situation?
Asked by Female, 42 · 12 days ago
Rheumatoid arthritis is a long-term condition in which the body?s immune system attacks the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and joint damage if not well controlled. In your case, since you already have deformities and your current medicines are not giving enough relief, it suggests that the disease is not fully controlled. Intacept 25 mg injection contains etanercept, a biological medicine that reduces the overactive immune response. It is usually considered when standard treatments are ineffective. Many patients notice improvement in pain, stiffness, and slowing of further joint damage after starting it. However, it can increase the risk of infections and may not be suitable for everyone. That is why proper screening and regular monitoring are important before and during treatment. The decision should be based on your disease activity, response to current medicines, overall health, and risk factors. In many such cases, switching to a biologic like Intacept is considered appropriate when standard therapy fails, but it should always be done under the close supervision of a doctor or rheumatologist.