sulfasalazine

[kageyd]

This is what my rheumatologist started me on as a recent diagnosis. I'm older (69), have long had osteo, and my fairly recently gnarled fingers triggered her to do a complete blood test and x-rays looking for RA. No RA factor, and no other definitive blood factor, but from the clinical picture she's very sure I have a developing RA.

Have any of you used sulfasalizine, and has it been of help? I would appreciate any experiences, suggestions, problems, etc.

Many thanks from a newbie. Kageyd

[Mac]

kageyd, I'm 62 and also new to RA. I'm taking sulfasalizine and it has brought my RA under control. I'm not having any side-effects and it is working fine. I accept the reality that my life is now linked to a prescription drug but that is better than all the pain I was putting up with. I understand that not everyone can take sulfa but if you can, I'd sure consider it.

Mac

[Terrie]

My Sister was on that drug for about 5 years but then it stopped working for her so he switched her to another. My Rheumy never put me on that drug. I'm not sure why. I'm not allergic to Sulpha drugs.

[babyboomer]

I also am new to RA and am taking sulfasalazine. It has helped with inflammation and pain. No problems so far. I take a total of 6 tablets a day: 3 in the morning and 3 at dinner. Be sure to take them with food. I have no side effects at all from this med. I know it is one of the "older" drugs, but it hasn't as many side effects as some of the newer ones - AND it is inexpensive! Even without any drug coverage you can afford this one. I did not ever have very much pain with my RA. So if there is a lot of pain for you, you can combine this with other drugs as well. Good luck!

[kageyd]

Thanks Mac, Terrie and Boomer. I'm on 4 a day for a while, with fingers crossed. Fortunately I don't think I have much pain from the RA (it's hard to tell which is RA and which is osteo - which I've had for decades), but I've taken Celebrex daily ever since Vioxx was done in, and it keeps me walking (not bouncing, walking) up and down those subway stairs in New York! Thanks again, I'll keep posting on progress. Kageyd

[crimson]

Many of the mild side effects can be avoided by using lower doses of these drugs; the serious side effects are uncommon or rare, and usually resolve when the medication is stopped. In most cases, the potential benefits of these drugs outweigh the potential risks. Nonetheless, it is important to be aware of the possible side effects before starting treatment.