Multiple Sclerosis is a debilitating neurological condition that affects approximately 400,000 persons in the United States. This condition affects more women than men and is typically diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50. There is no known absolute cause or cure, however, MS treatments are available. These treatments are designed to treat acute relapses, control symptoms or slow the progression of condition.
Extavia
The newest U.S. approved treatment for MS is Extavia. This drug is classified as an interferon and is suggested to be used in patients who are newly diagnosed or have had a recent relapse. As an interferon, it is considered a disease-modifying drug. Extavia is given as an injection. Side effects include malaise, headache, body aches and injection site reactions.
Rebif
Rebif is another interferon drug used in MS treatment. It is also an injectible drug that is administered three times a week. It is prescribed to those patients who are prone to relapses of MS. Common side effects are similar to those of Extavia. Interferons are to be prescribed with caution to those patients with depression and liver problems.
Tysabri
Also a disease modifying drug, Tysabri was formerly known as Antegren. This treatment is typically used in patients who have the remission-relapse form of MS and is a treatment used only after other treatment methods have failed. This MS treatment is administered via IV infusion once every four weeks. Tysabri can cause a form of encephalopathy, therefore a patient receiving this medication must be closely monitored. Common side effects include headache, increased general pain and diarrhea.
Novantrone
Novantrone is an antineoplastic. Antineoplastics are typically used in the treatment of certain cancers. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Novantrone as a treatment for MS. This treatment hinders the activity of those cells that attack the nervous system that lead to an exacerbation of MS. It is most commonly used in patients who have the progressive form of the condition. Novantrone is administered as an IV infusion approximately every three months. Side effects may include disruption of menstrual cycle, hair loss, nausea and difficulty urinating.
Copaxone
This MS treatment is used to reduce the number of relapses. Copaxone is an injection that is administered daily. Common side effects are runny nose, injection site reaction, weight gain and new onset tremor. In 2009, the FDA approved Copaxone for use in MS patients experiencing the first acute exacerbation. Due to the possibility of injection site reactions and the fact this treatment is administered daily, it is recommended that the injection site be rotated weekly.
Considerations
There are many other singular and combination MS treatments. While each treatment modality works in a different manner, there are some general precautions for all. Because women are typically diagnosed with MS during child-bearing years, it would be prudent to discuss any plans to get pregnant before initiating MS treatment. Should a woman suspect she is pregnant, the treating physician should be notified immediately as many of these drugs are harmful to fetal development. Another concern is the perceived worsening of MS symptoms after starting a new treatment. Increased pain and/or weakness may actually be attributed to the drug and not MS itself. Any changes should be reported to the treating physician.
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