THE MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA (INC.)

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Whilst there is currently no known cure for multiple sclerosis there are several treatment options available.

Treatments for Relapsing remitting MS (RRMS) aim to reduce the number and severity of relapses; ultimately reducing the damage that occurs leading to longer-term disability.

Since the introduction of the first “disease modifying therapies” in the 1990’s neurologists better understand the safety and efficiency of these drugs and the benefits of starting treatment early.

Given that MS is quite individual, the choice of initial therapy, and the need to sometimes change therapies, is a decision best made by you and your neurologist. There are several factors taken into account when choosing the therapy for you including lifestyle and likelihood of adhering to the treatment for example.

Whilst the MSWA does not recommend any specific treatment our nurses can provide you with relevant information to help you understand the treatments; allowing you to have a more informed discussion with your neurologist when choosing the treatment best suited to your situation.

Our nurses provide ongoing support for you whatever immunotherapy you are ordered and we are funded to provide training and ongoing support for all of the treatments; including managing site reactions and side effects.

In the 1980’s there were no treatments for MS, now we have a range of therapies, self-injectables, infusions and recently approved oral therapies. These treatment options are really making a difference; and there are more drugs in clinical trials; learn more at MSRA- Clinical Trials

Treating Relapses

Corticosteroids, such as methylprednisolone, are drugs used to treat inflammation and reduce the length of relapses; they are given over short timeframes and usually to treat relapses that result in muscle weakness or visual problems.

They can be given daily for 5 days intravenously or as a short oral course depending on the circumstances. As they are quite powerful drugs they are not given unless considered necessary by the neurologist.

For more detailed information click on this link to the UK MS Trust Fact Sheet - Steroids or speak with an MSWA nurse.