having had a four year relationship with a close imitator of RA, i must say that there can be GOOD reason to take these new drugs, vioxx and celebrex. the other drugs commonly used have serious side effects and are hard to take long term. i went into remission before these drugs came out, but i will say that it took my stomach longer to recover than the rest of me. (can't say about the hydrochloroquinine, didn't get that one). what's odd though about these new drugs, is that i recently had tendonitis and my doctor would not prescribe either because my insurance wouldn't authorize it. i spent a few days destroying my stomach again before i got some "hot new drugs." those whose doctors are quick to prescribe new stuff must have much better insurance then i do. anecdotal story from someone who took the exam this year. the nurse sitting next to her asked "did you study for this?" her hospital paid all her costs to take it. those of you who work in hospitals etc. should know what the usual thing is and get your institution to pay. unfortunately, i paid for it all myself. i studied, too. my friend is nicer than i am. i would have broken that woman's pencils. carol brussel IBCLC *********************************************** The LACTNET mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned LISTSERV(R) list management software together with L-Soft's LSMTP(TM) mailer for lightning fast mail delivery. For more information, go to: http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html