Betaseron - Multiple Sclerosis Message Board

sweaver · 08-29-2005, 02:42 PM

Hello all. This is my first time posting on this site so apologies if I am repeating anything.
I was diagnosed two years ago when I had my first attack of optic neuritis. All went quiet from then until this year when I had another bout in February, and now I have the pins and needles in my right hand. I had an MRI last month and it did show more activity. In February my nurologist suggested I look into Low Dose Naltrexone (excuse spelling) and let him know if I wanted to give it a try. I did a load of research and decided it might be worth doing, however this time I saw him, he has changed his mind and thinks I would be better using betaseron. So the research begins again....
They are arranging for someone to come and do a presentation about it and give me all the details which is fine - but I'm not sure I would 100% trust what I am told - especially if they are affiliated with the betaseron brand in anyway.
I have read lots of good and bad things about betaseron but feel I need to know what people actually using it think. Any advice would be greatful.

Natatude · 08-29-2005, 07:02 PM

i have been on it a yr now,,,, at first it was difficult to have to mix it and then load the syringe,,, but after a few months i became a pro,,, i took tylenol with em the first 8 months cause everytime i tried a shot with them,,, i would get a fever,,, so i started only taking one,,, so now i am down to none. i like taking them better in my stomach,,, i like to do it myself and reaching my behind and the sides of my arms is difficult so when i take them on nights my huby is at work,, i do them in my stomach or legs,,, and then on nights he is here,, only on weekends,,, he helps me on my behind and arms. so far so good,,, i still have days that the vertigo is real bad but other than that i am fine. good luck.

Royal · 08-29-2005, 09:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sweaver

....
They are arranging for someone to come and do a presentation about it and give me all the details which is fine - but I'm not sure I would 100% trust what I am told - especially if they are affiliated with the betaseron brand in anyway.
I have read lots of good and bad things about betaseron but feel I need to know what people actually using it think. Any advice would be greatful.

It might be a good idea to look at all the familiar drug options, which are known as "CRAB" drugs for Copaxone,Rebif, Avonex, and Betaseron. They are pretty much the same in terms of how well they work, but have different advantages and disadvantages.
You're right about being leery about presentations. I suggest that you do some independent research and discuss it with your neurologist. A good starting point might be the National Multiple Sclerosis Society website.
Good luck in finding the right treatment.
- Roy