Treatment Options for Multiple Sclerosis

Treatment for the disease multiple sclerosis involves managing the symptoms as well as treating the disease before permanent damage causes further symptoms. Treatment should include medications, physical and occupational therapy and possible experimental and new therapies.

Treatment begins with a lengthy and complete diagnostic evaluation of the individual and should evolve around the needs of the individual.

The treatment plan should be geared towards meeting the needs of the individual in their work, school or home areas of function. Symptoms are related to the ability of the individual to function and to participate in daily activities. Managing the symptoms is critical to maintaining function. The medical team of professionals are trained to be able to assess symptoms and to monitor their intensity and to determine if the symptoms are mild or infrequent if a wait-and-see approach might be best for the individual with MS, or if there needs to be a more aggressive attitude about treatment based on controlling the progression of the disease.

Medications:

Two medications are commonly prescribed to control flare-ups and aer genetically engineered copies of proteins that naturally occur in our bodies. These medications are Interferon beta-1b (Betaseron) and interferon beta-1a (Avonex, and Rebif). It is uncertain at this time what the long-term benefits will be of these medications. Beta interferons must never be used in combination with one another. Only one of the two mentioned can be prescribed and taken at a time; never both together. Beta interferons must be used by individuals with MS who can still walk. Using these medication cannot reverse damage already done by MS. They cannot prevent permanent disability.

They are generally prescribed for individuals who have more than one attack of MS per year and those who do not recover well from these flare-ups. These medications may also be prescribed for those who have new and significant buildup of lesions, verified by MRI scan, and who have not had any new, major symptoms of disease activity.

Other medications used for MS are Glatiramer, an alternative to beta interferons. This medication cannot be used at the same time that beta interferons are being used. Glatiramer is just as effective at curbing MS attacks as beta interferons are because they block the immune system's attack on myelin. Corticosteroids are also used to treat inflammation in nerve tissue and to shorten the duration of flare-ups. Side effects can occur with prolonged use of steroids. Muscle relaxants are prescribed to help with muscle stiffening or spasms.

Other medications are prescribed to reduce fatigue, control depression, and reduce pain and to help control bladder or bowel problems.

Physical and occupational therapy is used to preserve the independence of the individuals regarding daily tasks at work, school and home.

Counseling is used either in group or individually to help people with MS deal with their families and to cope with the disease and to aid them in dealing with the ravages of the emotional stress of MS.