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Hello,

I have Crohn's--diagnosed in Aug. 2000, through blood tests and biopsies.  I have had quite the rough time, with multiple flares, and generally more bad times than good.  I am hopeful for the future, and have put my hopes in Remicade.  My physician has stated that this is the best medication out there, and has me receiving infusions every 8 weeks.  The problem is I haven't seen much response.  I've been hospitalized often still, with dehydration, severe pain, and vomiting--  typical crohn's symptoms I thought should be receding with this medication.

Never has my physician stated that maybe this drug just doesn't work for me, in fact, he has made it clear to me that it works in all his patients.

So, because I'm still suffering from Crohn's symptoms, I've had the dosage of Remicade increased steadily.  I know that Remicade is weight-based, and I weigh 137 pounds, and am 5'10".  I went from, I believe 250mgs to a dosage now of 800mgs per infusion.  I feel nauseated, achey all over, still have diarrhea and stomach pain, headaches, fatigue--all which seem to peak at the time of infusion, and fade with time (with exception of chronic diarrhea, and cramping).

I am wondering:  has anyone heard of this with the dosage continually being increased?  Is this at all dangerous?  Am I the only one who isn't responding to remicade?

I'm tired of paying for something that doesn't make me feel better, but mostly I am concerned for my health!  Are there long-term studies, or any indication that giving higher doses is warranted (or safe)?

I asked my physician this, but he feels so strongly about the benefits of this drug and my concerns are discounted, it makes me wonder if there is more I should know........

Thank you for reading this!!  Good luck to all, and I appreciate any and all responses!!