Cortisone can’t be used continuously because of its side effects on the body. That is why cortisone shots can only be had a few times a year (2 or 3 times a year in each joint). Ativan does nothing to treat the disease as its purpose only treats anxiety and agitation. Biologics can halt or slow down the disease’s progression. We need the disease to be stopped rather than just make us unaware it is continuing to damage our joints. I imagine at some point, the trio of drugs you mentioned wouldn’t help at all.

Biologics are expensive but luckily for me, I was still employed at the time and my employee insurance covered the cost of the drugs. Now that I’m retired, the province I live in covers the cost of almost all medications for seniors. I used to get the name brand biologic before I was 65 but they (government) only cover the cost of the biosimilar for the name brand. Since I started using the biosimilar, my symptoms have actually improved so it’s obviously working well.

I would check into getting financial assistance from the drug’s manufacturer. When I started on a biologic here (Canada), my rheumatologist and her office worked with the manufacturer to set up delivery, etc. The drug company contacted my insurance group to set up payment. The manufacturer uses a distributor that works with setting up payment or setting up a program to provide customers with monetary coverage/assistance if they need it. I would speak with your rheumatologist’s office and ask them how you go about getting coverage for a biologic. My husband is American so I hear through his family how much they pay for doctors. Surely your doctor or his staff can give you the exact information you need to get part or full coverage of the biologic you need or point you in the right direction according to the systems in place in your country. Before Biologics, I went from being unable to walk without using one of those big rolling walkers with the seat (rollators) or on a very good day, using 2 canes. Now I can just walk around like everyone else and can bend, stretch, do yoga, and even CHASE my puppy. Cortisone, Ativan and ketamine only make you think you’re better but actually, you’re disease is still getting much worse. Make your doctor work for you to get you the treatment you need! He is being paid to get you the best treatment for your needs. Biologics stop the disease which stops the damage and the pain. Tylenol Arthritis is all I even use when I feel pain. I feel terrible when I read about people not receiving the treatment that could very well make their life good again. All the best to you in accessing the treatment you need to make your life good once again! ❤️❤️

Yes Humira is ridiculous cost. I wouldn’t be able to afford to take it without financial assistance from the manufacturer due to being on SS and having limited income. Don’t know what I’ll do if they ever take away my financial assistance.