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Real members of MySpondylitisTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I would really like some positive stories and feedback about rinvoq. I've had the pills sitting on my counter for a week but I'm afraid to start them and I'm miserable. I'm only 39, but when a medication states there's a higher risk of cardiac events and stroke or blood clots, it scares me. I'm terrified of a major event and dying young. Yes, I have anxiety; and yes, I'm already on medication for that also. I would just like some experiences and opinions from others if you have any. Thank you.

June 18, 2025
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A MySpondylitisTeam Member

I tried 5 Biologics before throwing in the towel due to none of them helping my pain. My once perfect blood test results started revealing succumbing to those side affects you are concerned about. Liver, kidneys, blood cell production and more. The good news is that you can recover relatively quickly and completely from the side affects of medications when you catch those side affects early on. Keep a close watch on all your blood tests. You dont want to just be in the green zones of all those readings, you want to be dead in the middle of the green zones. "Acceptable" readings are based on the averages of the population, but the average in the population of modern humanity is sick sick sick. Don't take medication you dont thoroughly understand how it works and how it's made. Now i don't take any biologics or DMARDS. An occasional tylenol for arthritis, less often a prescription meloxicam, rarely prednisone. Doing better now than ever. Because you are seeking good news on your med i will just defer you to my prior posts on medication vs alternative treatments and the details of much research i did on that topic the past couple of years. Check under the updates tab and treatments tabs on my wall for those. In summary, if you can find a functional medicine dr to guide you to the causes and then resolutions of the causes for your disease you will be far better off than just trial and error of modern medication pushed through the Rheumatology network. Reach out for further details anytime. Yours in better health P ๐Ÿ˜Œ๐Ÿ™

June 18, 2025
MySpondylitisTeam

It's completely understandable to feel anxious about starting a new medication, especially given the listed side effects. The key is to have an open, honest conversation with your healthcare team about your specific concerns. They can help you weigh the benefits of treating your spondylitis against the potential risks based Show Full Answer

It's completely understandable to feel anxious about starting a new medication, especially given the listed side effects. The key is to have an open, honest conversation with your healthcare team about your specific concerns. They can help you weigh the benefits of treating your spondylitis against the potential risks based on your personal health history.

Remember that untreated spondylitis can lead to long-term joint damage and disability, so discussing your treatment options thoroughly with your doctor is important. Don't let the medication sit unused without talking to your healthcare team. If you're having concerns about starting the treatment, they can:
- Provide guidance specific to your situation
- Help monitor any side effects
- Adjust your treatment plan if needed
- Connect you with resources for support

Many MySpondylitisTeam members have shared that switching medications can be stressful, but staying in close contact with your healthcare team and having a support system can help manage those concerns.

June 18, 2025

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