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Mom has been given a new set of drugs by her doctor guaranteed to put her into "remission". What does that mean exactly? These drugs are costing her a fortune. We think they are going to put her in the poor house.
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Treatment for RA has changed quite a bit in the past 10 to 15 years. Many new drugs are out on the market now specifically for rheumatoid arthritis. These medications have made it possible for many, many arthritis sufferers to experience remission.
Remission refers to the absence of any signs of the disease. No symptoms means improved function and increased activity. That is good news for anyone who previously couldn't even zip up their own pants or pick up a cup of coffee.
Patients who don't respond to monotherapy (the use of one drug at a time) often do better when medications for rheumatoid arthritis are combined (combination therapy). If symptoms can't be controlled with two drugs combined together, then triple therapy (the use of three separate classes or types of drugs) can be used.
Up to 90 per cent of all patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) do respond well to monotherapy, combination therapy, or triple therapy. Of course, the more medications a person requires to control their disease, the more costly it can become.
But studies have shown over and over that effective treatment of this kind can slow and even stop the progression of joint destruction from RA. It's hard to put a price tag on how much money patients are saving by controlling their symptoms. Putting a figure in dollars and cents corresponding to reducing the need for surgeries, preventing loss of employment, and avoiding poor quality of life is equally difficult.
If your mother is responding well to the drug regimen prescribed by her physician, then it may be possible to look for ways to help finance those medications. Your local pharmacist will be able to advise you on any cost savings possible through the use of generic drugs to replace brand names. Most communities also have a Council on Aging or other Aging Services who can help your mother cover the expense of these drugs (or find ways to cover other expenses so she has added dollars to pay for the meds).
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*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic. |
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