Multiple sclerosis (MS) is chronic disease of the central nervous system that affects 250,000 to 350,000 people in the United States, based upon estimates provided by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Symptoms of MS include muscle coordination problems, muscle spasticity, numbness, fatigue, bladder and bowel dysfunction, dizziness, vertigo, pain and depression. Though the cause of MS is unknown, a number of disease-modifying drug treatments approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are available to help you manage and alleviate symptoms.
Interferon beta-1a
Interferon beta-1a is a prescription drug that induces a protective immune response in patients with MS through an unknown mechanism of action, which helps to slow the progression of this disease. There are two different formulations of this medication currently available: Avonex and Rebif. Avonex is self-administered once per week through an injection into the muscle (intramuscular injection). Rebif is self-administered three times each week through an injection beneath the skin (subcutaneous injection).
The most common side effects associated with both interferon beta-1a formulations are flu-like symptoms. Such symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, headache, chills, sweating, fatigue, nausea and vomiting and typically subside with recurrent interferon beta-1a treatment. Use of Rebif can also result in the appearance of injection site reactions, such as swelling, irritation, itching or inflammation of the skin. The National MS Society warns that you should speak with your doctor immediately if you experience seizures, allergic reaction, suicidal thoughts, or heart, liver or blood-related problems.
Interferon beta-1b
Interferon beta-1b is a prescription drug that helps modulate the immune system in patients with MS, thereby controlling disease-related symptoms. Currently, there are two different formulations of this drug available: Betaseron and Extavia. Betaseron and Extavia are self-administered every other day through a subcutaneous injection. Flu-like symptoms are the most commonly reported side effects of interferon beta-1b use, which typically decrease over time. Interferon beta-1b can also cause injection site reactions to develop at the site of treatment. If you experience depression, suicidal thoughts, liver problems, seizures or an allergic reaction while taking interferon beta-1b, contact your doctor immediately.
Glatiramer Acetate
Glatiramer acetate is a prescription drug that is believed to protect the nerves within the brain and spinal cord from damage in patients with MS. This medication is self-administered once daily by subcutaneous injection. The most common side effect associated with glatiramer acetate use is injection site reaction. Approximately 5 percent of these injection site reactions require addition medical attention, reports "The MS Disease-Modifying Drugs" (2009), a booklet published by The National MS Society. Additional side effects of this medication can include chest pain, anxiety, heart palpitations and shortness of breath. Such side effects typically subside within 15 to 30 minutes following treatment.
Mitoxantrone
Mitoxantrone is a prescription antineoplastic medication that inhibits nerve death in patients with MS. This medication is administered intravenously (IV) approximately once per month at a registered infusion facility. The most common side effects associated with mitoxantrone use include headache, depression, chest discomfort, joint pain, urinary tract infection and lower respiratory tract infection. Leukemia and heart toxicity (cardiotoxicity) have also been associated with use of this medication.
Natalizumab
Natalizumab is a prescription monoclonal antibody that protects that brain and spinal cord from damage by suppressing the immune system. This medication is administered four times each year by IV at a medical facility. Patients can receive a lifetime maximum of 8 to 12 doses of this medication over 2 to 3 years. The most common side effects associated with this medication are discolored (blue-green) urine, nausea, hair loss, mouth sores and bladder infections. This medication also includes a FDA black box warning noting the potential risk of developing a viral brain infection (progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy). Natalizumab can also increase your risk of liver damage, infection and allergic reaction.
