I am so new to this, I hope I don't screw up. I've been dx. since "93, but have been pretty much symptom free until this month and it was back with a vengence! Haven't been able to drive all month due to my vision. I was 3 weeks into my exacerbation before I could get into Doc. and she did not want to give me IV solumedrol (never had it and don't really want it, but desperately want to get better). She felt like it would'nt really help that far into the exac. She did, however, insist that I start on the Avonex. Anyone else had their dr. tell them the steroid probably wouldn't help?
no, i've never heard that before. usually the steroid is for mid-flare and the other drugs are for maintenance. i'm very surprised to read what you wrote. i didn't think avonex helped with actual symptoms.
Doc didn't say Avonex would help with symptoms, just that I needed to be on it for future problems. Eyes are slowly(very slowly getting better). Goind for my second half of MRI. Will check back in when I get back. Thanks for listening!!
My ophthalmologist told me she usually prescribes three or four days of IV Solumedrol for optic neuritis. It may be worth a try. If you do decide to try the IV, be sure to ask for a tapering dose of oral steroid to follow. The Avonex may help to lessen future attacks or make them less frequent, but it probably will not affect your current flare-up. Keep in mind, it can take up to six months for the Avonex to become effective. Best of luck to you! Sharon Grace
I was on 3 days of IV solu-medrol for ON and started Avonex shortly after. I think my eye is as good as it will get, which is MUCH better than it was during my flare, but not as good as it was before. I hope you do well with the Avonex. My last 2 shots have been with no problems, but the first 6 were beatings!!! Good luck!
Thanks for your input. When I start my Avonex, does it have to be given that exact day every week. If so, then I want to start on a Fri. eve. so I have the weekend to recoup. Also, how quickly did the iv steroid begin to help your eyes.? I'm getting closer and closer to time to go back to work and am looking at possible short term disability, cause there's no way I could work like I am now.'
Thanks again
