Michele, I'm sorry you are having so much trouble lately. I understand your concern about taking the medicine. It's supposed to help you, but it sounds like the side effects are worse than what you were dealing with to begin with! Sometimes I get so angry at doctors when I air my concerns about the side effects and they just blow it off like it's nothing. They're not the ones who have to live with the problems so it's so easy for them to tell you to continue the medicine.
This is tough, I know. The decision will have to be yours. No one else can tell you what to do. Unless it's life-threatening if you don't take the medicine, then taking it is your decision. It all comes down to your QUALITY OF LIFE. Which can you deal with on a daily basis? The pain/swelling from the RA ----or the side effects from the medicine?
Will these side effects subside? Or will they continue like this? Is there any other medicine you could take for this? What would happen if you didn't take it? (I know you said you would have eye problems).
One suggestion I have is to talk to an experienced pharmacist that you can trust. I have one that has been invaluable to me. He knows more about the medicines than the doctor does! He can explain---in plain English---how the medicine works, the side effects, and whether or not they should subside. Do you have anyone like this that you could discuss this with?
I will pray that you make the right decision. I know it's hard. When I was reading your post last night, I couldn't believe it but a good friend of mine was just diagnosed yesterday with autoimmune hepitatis. The treatment is prednisone and Imuran, this same medicine you are taking. I'm afraid she has a long road ahead of her. She doesn't have a choice. Her body's immune system is attacking her liver cells, and she must get this under control or she could end up having to have a liver transplant.
I'm praying for you. Hang in there! Whatever you decide to do, we are here for you.
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