Stopped Raptiva due to ASTHMA AND BRONCHITIS

[suzmiata]

About five weeks ago, I started getting a sinus infection, which spread into by lungs. I stopped taking the Raptiva immediately, didn't go to the Dr. till Nov., 23rd. He put me on an antibiotic and nebulizer, which I have to use five times a day. I have bronchitis and asthma. I'm just now starting to feel better. When I saw the Dr., he said that I should get a flu and pneumonia shot. My flu shot went o-k, but my pneumonia shot looks like hell. Its a big red bump and it looks like Psoriasis is starting to erupt on this arm. I'm also starting to get the typical guttate on my stomach.. Here we go again. I was completely clear except for a few small spots on my legs. I want to start the Raptiva again but I will wait until the bump goes down on my arm where I got the pneumonia shot. I teach school so you know the germs I am round everyday. iI try to wash my hands as often as I can. I want to continue with the Raptiva so I guess I'll just have to wait and see if I get sick again. What a bummer....
Just sharing, I've read about a lot of people who have gotten sick and had to stop taking the drug.

Sue

[SamanthaW]

Hi Sue,
I am sorry you are having problems on the Raptiva. Just thought I would share what I have been through. I too was on Raptiva for about 3 months, clearing beautifully. Then, I got an ear infection, took 2 different antibiotics. Doctor took me off the Raptiva. Had a flu shot and was off for about 4 weeks. I also developed lumps in my thigh, that I had to go to a surgeon for. He told me they were nothing to worry about. I then had a UTI and was on Cipro for about a week. So, I had been off the Raptiva about 4 weeks in total. Last week, I had a bad flare, probably starting e-dermic. Doctor put my on methrotrexate immediately. It has calmed things down and I started back on the Raptiva. Monday of this week, I got my "cycle". It is the worst I have ever had (heavy bleeding like after I gave birth, cramps, etc). One thing I would like to say about going off Raptiva suddenly: YOU CAN FLARE VERY BADLY! PLEASE BE CAREFUL! I was sick days with chills, blood pressure that was up and down and skin on fire. I did not know this could happen!
I hope you are feeling better!!!

Samantha

[suzmiata]

It is a trip dealing with this crazy disease. I try to stay positive but sometimes its just so hard. I hope you don't get the euphadermic (sp)psoriasis. I've had that several times in the 47 years that I have had this disease. Take care...
Sue