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Multiple Sclerosis Treatments

NEW! The Ultimate MS Treatment Guide

This powerful tool provides you with the information you need to make an informed choice about treating multiple sclerosis. Medical experts and patient advocates discuss their first-hand experience, comparing the different FDA-approved MS treatments.

Introduction to Treatments for MS

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable disorder that can cause a variety of symptoms, which for many, can flare-up and then subside over the course of days, months, or even years. Most individuals are initially diagnosed with one of the relapsing forms of MS, causing these flare-ups. A much smaller percentage of individuals begin with one of the progressive forms, exhibiting a more steady progression of symptoms.

Long-Term Treatments for MS

The first three long-term treatments for multiple sclerosis (MS) became available in the early to mid 1990s and were dubbed the “A-B-C” drugs because of their brand names: Avonex®, Betaseron®, and Copaxone®. These are interferon beta-1a, interferon beta-1b, and glatiramer acetate, respectively. In 2002, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved another interferon, Rebif® (interferon beta-1a), for the long-term treatments of MS.

Treating MS Relapses

Relapses, also referred to as exacerbations, attacks, flare-ups, episodes, or bouts, are initially experienced by most people diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). Relapses occur with relapsing-remitting and sometimes secondary-progressive forms of MS. Relapses do not occur with primary-progressive MS, although individuals may experience day-to-day fluctuations in how they feel.

Treating the Symptoms of MS

MS may cause several different symptoms. The specific symptoms, as well as the number and severity of symptoms, differ greatly between people with MS. When experiencing one or more new symptoms, or a worsening of an existing symptom, individuals should always consult their physician.For more information on symptom, MSAA offers publications, webinars, videos, and podcasts.