Interferon Therapy and Multiple Sclerosis
Most often when a patient is diagnosed with MS, the neurologist recommends one of the immunomodulating drugs (such as FDA-approved interferons or glatiramer acetate).
From personal experience, rather witnessing those I know on these drugs, these drugs do seem to afford the patient a much better quality of life. But, with any drug, there are possible side effects.
According to news from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS), an Italian study concludes that:
”‘This large-scale study adds significant support to considering MS treatment as soon as possible following a diagnosis of probable or definite MS,’ commented John R. Richert, MD, who heads research and clinical programs at the National MS Society.”
I haven’t started a immunomodulating drug yet. My doctor recommended Co-Paxone, but because I also have Multiple Chemical Sensitivity, I held off. I’ve been going to an acupuncturist for three years now and, thank God, have been holding my own. So, my doctor doesn’t insist I go on the medication.
If you’d like to read the entire story at NMSS, go to:
http://www.nationalmssociety.org/news/news-detail/index.aspx?nid=2359
I wonder how many people with MS also have MCS? Many people with MCS end up tested for MS because doctors know so little about MCS. I have severe MCS and some exposures cause such severe reactions that it is like MS. My Fibromyalgia also becomes severe with some chemical exposures, and from wearing clothing or sitting on furniture that contains traces of chemicals that do not agree with me, but everything almost clears up when the air and my surroundings are free from toxic chemicals. There seems to be a lot of overlap, but most MS and FM docs seem to know nothing about MCS from what I have heard.
Hi, Linda,
I agree, there is little known about MCS and it’s a horrible to health problem to live with. I was also diagnosed with CFS, FM, and MS. The CFS specialist says that MCS is pretty common among CFS sufferers. I had to stop using my gas overn a few years ago because of the MCS, I’ve had to leave doctors’ offices, and countless other situations.
It’s all a guessing game at to what one actually has.
Thanks for stopping by.