Commonly used treatment regimens are administered via injection while others come in pill form.
Injectables include:
- Beta-interferons, which are drugs that decrease how frequent or severe MS flares may become
- Copaxone or Glatopa (glatiramer) stop the body’s immune system from attacking the myelin sheath
A wide variety of oral medications may be used, some of which can make the patient more prone to infection. Certain chemotherapy drugs used against cancer may be introduced if the patient does not respond to other treatments. Other medications are prescribed based on the type of MS the patient has been diagnosed with.
A medical provider may also prescribe medications for muscle stiffness, depression, bladder control, or fatigue. Some intravenous drugs may also be used for flares, and physical therapy may assist with decreasing mobility and coordination.
The Prognosis When Living with MS
Living with multiple sclerosis is not simple or easy, and many physical and psychological symptoms will manifest. From depression and pain to the loss of bladder control or the inability to walk, the patient must contend with many challenges over time.
Multiple sclerosis is not fatal, thus the prognosis for many patients with MS is that they may live as long as others who do not have the disease. However, some studies show that the individual with MS may live 5 to 10 years less than the general population.
Quality of life and the management of very difficult, inconvenient, and painful symptoms are the reality in life with MS, thus patients need support, love, encouragement, and excellent medical and psychological management in order to live the best life possible with this highly challenging disease.