Community Forum

Have a question, or want to share your own tips and experiences? Join the discussion in the community forum. You must be registered to participate. Our forums are moderated by Crohn's & Colitis Foundation staff to facilitate a safe environment.

Ulcerative Colitis - medication question


Sat, November 28, 2020 12:26 PM

I am a 59 year old male diagnosed just a few days ago. Prescribed mesalaine enema. Was very apprehensive about the application process. First dose last night. Not the most fun thing I have ever done but not as bad as I thought it was going to be. couple questions about the medication.

Doctor said I would have to take this every day for the rest of my life. Need some real time advice. Take it every day or just to control flare ups until remission then get off the stuff until another flare up occurs? 

the medication is expensive. I have no prescription drug insurance. I paid $207 for 5 boxes of 7 doses each. Is there any way to get the medication cheaper or is this the going rate?

thank you for your help

FPO Greg S
Joined Nov 28, 2020

Thu, December 10, 2020 5:15 PM

Reply posted for Troy Humira .



"I am on Humira now and it's a complicated, stressful process."

Why is that so? 

FPO dooscoop32
Joined Mar 28, 2013

Tue, December 08, 2020 6:45 PM

Reply posted for Greg S.

Greg,

I have been told it is a maintenance med like asprin.  It is the foundation to treatment based on what my son's Ped GI doc told us yesterday.  It was also somehting I always rememebr taking when I had UC.

FPO rhornstrom
Joined Dec 8, 2020

Mon, December 07, 2020 2:47 PM

Reply posted for UCme.

Hi Greg, sorry about the cost. Yeah, the Enema - days/ years for me were awkward ... but I wish I could go back to them again because they worked and it was simple. I am on Humira now and it's a complicated, stressful process. 

FPO TroyHumira
Joined Jun 5, 2022

Sat, December 05, 2020 3:20 PM

Reply posted for Greg S.

Hi Greg. I was recently diagnosed with UC/Crohns. They're not sure which. I also have no insurance and it scares me to think we are supposed to be on meds forever for this.  I tried GoodRx. It helps a little bit. My doctor actually suggested I try a Canadian pharmacy. I was surprised he said during normal times he would have tons of samples that he could provide to me but because of Covid reps aren't coming out and bringing samples anymore. 


 

FPO UCme
Joined Nov 12, 2020

Sat, November 28, 2020 8:15 PM

Reply posted for Greg S.

Hi again. Assuming you're in the States, you can try calling the drug company. Sometimes they will work something out. Also, try contacting "Goodrx.com". They can sometimes get meds for a lower price. Good luck 

FPO TerriLF
Joined Nov 25, 2020

Sat, November 28, 2020 7:37 PM

Reply posted for Greg S.

I guess it's different for everyone. I have used it on occasion for years, but only when I have flare ups. I am on other meds that I take daily that generally keep my UC under control. My advice would be to use it for a while and then discuss with your doctor the possibility of coming off it gradually. As a 64 year old woman that has lived with this for 40 years I've learned that it's important to be your own advocate and never be shy about asking your doctor questions or getting a second opinion. 

FPO TerriLF
Joined Nov 25, 2020

Related Topics

Crohns Qs new hair loss a...
Author Image ghand17
Joined Oct 23, 2022

I am also newly diagnosed. I was put on Inflectra ....

read more

Joint pain
Author Image AbbyF
Joined Jun 29, 2022

Hello, I'm newly diagnosed with Crohn's an....

read more

Extreme Abdominal pain
Author Image JackieBosco
Joined Oct 3, 2022

Hello. I was diagnosed with Crohn’s about tw....

read more