Multiple Sclerosis Treatment

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• QWhat are the safe and effective treatments of depression in MS?

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  A Multiple Sclerosis Foundation answered

  Medication can be used to treat depression in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Your MS doctor, primary care doctor or psychiatrist can prescribe and monitor medication to treat depression. Factors including convenience, visit frequency and severity of depression may be considerations for determining the most appropriate provider for offering depression care. Sometimes referral to another provider with expertise in addressing your unique needs is needed.

  Some people worry about the side effects of medication used to treat depression in people with multiple sclerosis (MS), such as weight gain, sexual dysfunction and drowsiness, or about adding new medication to already complex MS treatment regimens. These concerns are legitimate and should be discussed explicitly during healthcare visits.

  Of note, some medications used for depression can actually help manage MS symptoms. For example, some medications are effective at decreasing nerve pain common in MS. And while some depression medications facilitate sleep in those suffering insomnia, others can assist in promoting wakefulness and stamina. Again, honest communication with your healthcare provider can help with identifying the best medications for you.

  As with MS medications, always take depression medications as prescribed and inform a healthcare provider if problems develop. It typically takes several weeks or longer to determine a medication’s effectiveness; dose adjustments and changes in medication may be needed to provide the most symptom relief.

  Research has also found that cognitive ­behavioral therapy (CBT) is beneficial for a variety of multiple sclerosis (MS) ­related concerns, including depression, anxiety, grief and pain. CBT is an effective and widely practiced type of therapy. The basic premise of CBT is that emotions are influenced by cognitions (thoughts). When individuals have negative thoughts, they tend to experience greater despair than individuals with fewer of these thoughts. When people learn ways to balance their perspective, they often feel happier, more hopeful and less depressed, even when their situation remains unchanged.

• QHow effective are the treatments for multiple sclerosis (MS)?

  3 Answers

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  A Sigma Nursing answered

  There are a few treatment options for people with multiple sclerosis, or MS. Medications like Copaxone, Tysabri, and others can be prescribed to help slow the progress of the disease and relieve symptoms. The most commonly prescribed medications are anti-inflammatory corticosteroids. Beyond medication, a procedure called plasma exchange separates the plasma from your blood, which can help combat more severe symptoms. Patients can also attend physical therapy to learn about tools that may help them move around such as braces or crutches, and to work with a trainer to stretch and build their muscles. Other options are available as well, so talk with your doctor about the treatment that is right for you.

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• QAre there alternative treatments for multiple sclerosis?

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  A Dr. Charles R. Smith, MD , Neurology, answered on behalf of Scripps Health

  

  Many alternative therapies haven't been proven to help. In this video, neurologist Charles Smith, MD, explains why you should avoid alternative or complementary therapies in lieu of traditional treatment.

  

  Find out more about this DVD:

  Can Alternative Therapies Help Manage Multiple Sclerosis?
  Buy DVD

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• QWhat types of medications treat multiple sclerosis (MS)?

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  A Multiple Sclerosis Foundation answered

  Multiple sclerosis (MS) has been categorized into four clinical courses: relapsing-remitting, secondary progressive, primary progressive, and progressive relapsing.

  • Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), which is characterized by clearly defined acute attacks, is the most common form of the disease. Individuals with RRMS benefit most by treatment with the interferon drugs or glatiramer acetate, also known as the ABCR drugs (Avonex, Betaseron, Copaxone and Rebif). Tysabri may be another treatment option.
  • Secondary progressive MS (SPMS) initially begins with a relapsing-remitting course, that later becomes consistently progressive at a variable rate. Although some of the ABCR drugs, especially the interferons, may help control this more progressive form of MS, chemotherapeutic agents, such as Novantrone, are often the most helpful medications available. Tysabri also may be an option for those still experiencing relapses. Using medication for optimal management of symptoms such as spasticity, fatigue and bladder problems, can significantly improve a person's quality of life.
  • Primary progressive MS (PPMS) is characterized by progression of disability from the onset, primary progressive MS worsens without any distinct relapses or remissions. There are no known treatments for this form of MS, although some MS experts advocate pulse steroids during the first few years of the disease. Symptom management, however, can be very helpful in maintaining and improving quality of life, as disease progression tends to be slow.

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