Which way to go?

After two months of travel and other stuff, I finally saw my rheumatologist on Thursday. You may recall that I was diagnosed with RA in May. Since June 1, I have been taking a weekly dose of Methotextrate, which has gradually been increased to the highest oral dosage possible. However, Dr. P. says that it has had no effect on my RA since I have not been able to reduce my daily intake of prednisone--even a 2.5 mg. reduction causes increased swelling, pain and redness in my hand joints and wrists.

So he advised me to consider taking one of three TNF Blockers: Enbrel, Humira, or Remicade. The first two are given by self-injection and the last by IV's. I am worried about adverse side effects with the TNF Blockers, especially allergic skin reactions at injection/ infusion sites and infections. It sounds like the skin reactions are more likely to occur, which could be minor or severe. Getting TB or pneumonia is scary, especially because I had pneumonia in 1993 and was sick for a long time.

A friend told me that this might not be my decision but that of my insurance company's. That is an interesting thought. I guess I have to get to the point to suggest one or at least talk to my doctor again with questions.

When considering that RA is a chronic disease, this decision could impact much of the rest of my life--if it works on me.