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Understanding 14 Drugs for Multiple Sclerosis

Learn about 14 different drugs commonly used for the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis, their mode of action, side effects, and dosage by Jerry brooks
Estimated reading time: 3 min 38 sec
Understanding 14 Drugs for Multiple Sclerosis Photo by Maurício Mascaro on Pexels

Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system, causing damage to the myelin sheaths that protect nerve fibers.

There is no known cure for this disease, but there are various medications available to manage its symptoms and reduce the frequency and severity of relapses. In this article, we will discuss 14 commonly used drugs for Multiple Sclerosis, their mode of action, side effects, and dosage.

1. Interferon Beta-1a (Avonex, Rebif)

Interferon Beta-1a is an antiviral drug that can help reduce inflammation and promote myelin repair in MS patients.

It is available in two formulations: Avonex, which is injected once a week intramuscularly, and Rebif, which is injected three times a week subcutaneously. Some common side effects of these drugs include flu-like symptoms, injection site reactions, and liver problems.

2. Interferon Beta-1b (Betaseron, Extavia)

Interferon Beta-1b is another antiviral drug that can help reduce inflammation in MS patients.

It is available in two formulations: Betaseron, which is injected every other day subcutaneously, and Extavia, which is injected every other day subcutaneously. Some common side effects of these drugs include flu-like symptoms, injection site reactions, and liver problems.

3. Glatiramer Acetate (Copaxone)

Glatiramer Acetate is a drug that can help reduce the frequency and severity of relapses in MS patients. It is injected subcutaneously daily. Some common side effects of this drug include injection site reactions, flushing, and chest pain.

4. Fingolimod (Gilenya)

Fingolimod is a drug that can help reduce inflammation in MS patients by preventing immune cells from leaving lymph nodes. It is taken orally once a day. Some common side effects of this drug include headaches, diarrhea, and liver problems.

5. Teriflunomide (Aubagio)

Teriflunomide is a drug that can help reduce inflammation in MS patients by inhibiting the production of immune cells. It is taken orally once a day. Some common side effects of this drug include hair loss, diarrhea, and liver problems.

6. Dimethyl Fumarate (Tecfidera)

Dimethyl Fumarate is a drug that can help reduce inflammation in MS patients by acting as an antioxidant. It is taken orally twice a day. Some common side effects of this drug include flushing, diarrhea, and low white blood cell count.

7. Natalizumab (Tysabri)

Natalizumab is a drug that can help reduce inflammation in MS patients by preventing immune cells from entering the central nervous system. It is given intravenously once every four weeks.

Some common side effects of this drug include headaches, infections, and liver problems.

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8. Alemtuzumab (Lemtrada)

Alemtuzumab is a drug that can help reduce inflammation in MS patients by depleting certain immune cells. It is given intravenously once a year for two years.

Some common side effects of this drug include infusion reactions, infections, and autoimmune diseases.

9. Ocrelizumab (Ocrevus)

Ocrelizumab is a drug that can help reduce inflammation in MS patients by targeting certain B cells. It is given intravenously once every six months. Some common side effects of this drug include infusion reactions, infections, and liver problems.

10. Mitoxantrone (Novantrone)

Mitoxantrone is a drug that can help reduce inflammation in MS patients by suppressing the immune system. It is given intravenously every three months. Some common side effects of this drug include hair loss, nausea, and heart problems.

11. Cladribine (Mavenclad)

Cladribine is a drug that can help reduce inflammation in MS patients by depleting certain immune cells. It is taken orally once a year for two years.

Some common side effects of this drug include low white blood cell count, infections, and autoimmune diseases.

12. Fampridine (Ampyra)

Fampridine is a drug that can help improve walking ability in MS patients. It is taken orally twice a day. Some common side effects of this drug include seizures, urinary tract infections, and insomnia.

13. Carbamazepine (Tegretol)

Carbamazepine is a drug that can help manage MS-related pain. It is taken orally two to four times a day. Some common side effects of this drug include dizziness, nausea, and skin rash.

14. Baclofen (Lioresal)

Baclofen is a drug that can help manage MS-related spasticity. It is taken orally three times a day. Some common side effects of this drug include drowsiness, dizziness, and weakness.

Conclusion

There are various drugs available to manage the symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis, and the choice of medication depends on the severity and progression of the disease.

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each individual patient.

Disclaimer: This article serves as general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Individual circumstances may vary.

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