What will happen before taking TNF blocker drugs?
Before you take TNF-blocker drugs your Rheumatologist will recommend that you should receive one of these medications or whether other treatment would be best for you. Your arthritis activity will be measured on two occasions to check that you qualify for this treatment. You will then be screened to exclude an increased risk of side effects, in particular for a past history of TB, multiple sclerosis, recurrent infection, leg ulcers and a past history of cancer. You will be asked to have a chest x-ray if a recent one is not available to exclude signs of previous TB (which may sometimes be unknown to anyone, including the patient), and to exclude signs of heart failure. Blood tests to check blood count, liver function tests and in some cases to exclude hepatitis B and C will be taken. Adalimumab is given using a special pre-filled syringe. You will have the drug delivered to your home. You, or a helper, will be taught how to give the injection. Most people continue take other anti-RA med
