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Multiple SclerosisPage 7
Can MS be Treated?
There is as yet no cure for MS. Many patients do well with no therapy at all, especially since many medications have serious side effects and some carry significant risks. Naturally occurring or spontaneous remissions make it difficult to determine therapeutic effects of experimental treatments - however, the emerging evidence that MRIs can chart the development of lesions is already helping scientists evaluate new therapies.
In the past, the principal medications physicians used to treat MS were steroids possessing anti-inflammatory properties - these include:
- Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (better known as ACTH)
- Prednisone
- Prednisolone
- Methylprednisolone
- Betamethasone
- Dexamethasone
Studies suggest that intravenous methylprednisolone may be superior to the more traditional intravenous ACTH for patients experiencing acute relapses - no strong evidence exists to support the use of these drugs to treat progressive forms of MS. Also, there is some indication that steroids may be more appropriate for people with movement, rather than sensory, symptoms.
While steroids do not affect the course of MS over time, they can reduce the duration and severity of attacks in some patients. The mechanism behind this effect is not known - one study suggests the medications work by restoring the effectiveness of the blood/brain barrier. Because steroids can produce numerous adverse side effects (acne, weight gain, seizures, psychosis), they are not recommended for long term use.
One of the most promising MS research areas involves naturally occurring antiviral proteins known as interferons. Three forms of beta interferon (Avonex, Betaseron, and Rebif) have now been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for treatment of relapsing-remitting MS. Beta interferon has been shown to reduce the number of exacerbations and may slow the progression of physical disability. When attacks do occur, they tend to be shorter and less severe. In addition, MRI scans suggest that beta interferon can decrease myelin destruction.
Investigators speculate that the effects of beta interferon may be due to the drug's ability to correct an MS-related deficiency of certain white blood cells that suppress the immune system and / or its ability to inhibit gamma interferon, a substance believed to be involved in MS attacks. Alpha interferon is also being studied as a possible treatment for MS. Common side effects of interferons include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Sweating
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Injection site reactions
Scientists continue their extensive efforts to create new and better therapies for MS. Goals of therapy are threefold: to improve recovery from attacks, to prevent or lessen the number of relapses, and to halt disease progression. Some therapies currently under investigation are discussed below.
Page 1 What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Page 2 The Immune System
Page 3 Genetics
Page 4 What is the Course of MS?
Page 5 Symptoms of MS
Page 6 How is MS Diagnosed?
Page 7 Can MS be Treated?
Page 8 Immunotherapy
Page 9 Therapy
Page 10 Are Any MS Symptoms Treatable?
Page 11 Recent Advances Made in MS Research
References:
NIH Publication No. 96-75 - September 1996 - www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/multiple_sclerosis/detail_multiple_sclerosis.htm
This summary is a general overview about the topic discussed and does not include all the facts, or include everything there is to know about any medicine and/or products mentioned. Do not use any medicine and/or products without first talking to your doctor. Possible side effects of medications, other than those listed, may occur. Other brand names or generic forms of this medicine may also be available. If you have questions or concerns, or want more information, your doctor or pharmacist has the complete prescribing information about this medicine and possible drug interactions. Full Disclaimer
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