About to start Tecfidera. Tried copax, Beta, & Avonex

[coach291]

Copax didn't work, Betaserone made me sick all the time, and Avonex worked but I got tired of being sick every weekend. Been off of everything for over a year and now my MS is getting worse. I was excited about Tecfidera until I researched it and read post on a Tecfidera facebook page. Are the side effects that bad? I know everyone is different I just don't want to be sick all the time again. My nero mentioned the Avonex every three week shot. Has anyone tried that one yet?

[HVAC]

I having nothing specific to share. Most medications are hard at first until your body gets use to them. Like MS everyone does not get every side effect. Tecfidera does not work there are other options which is great. I hope things work out. For gastro issues there are medications.

Alex

[Corriel]

Hi there, I did Rebif for a year but my arm spasticity kept me from switching injection sites like I needed to so a year ago I switched to Tecfidera.

I think most folks have some gastro issues after being on the full dose for a week or two but it does vary from one person to another.

My gastro issues were bad and I had to taper back down and go back up to the full dose much more gradually. At that point I was given the option to stop taking Tec but I managed to push through.

I have also been one of the few who had low absolute lymphocytes and needed more routine blood work for a few months.

The lymphocytes have been back in normal range for a few months so my blood work is less frequent now.

Like any med, it bothers some more than others. Once I got over the nausea and stomach pain it has never returned.

It is nice not to have to worry about injections or site reactions though.

I do still get flushing if I don't stay on schedule but that is easily managed as long as I pay attention.

I do know of others who had no issues other than mild flushing when they started taking it.

Sorry I have nothing to share about Avonex. It is a lot like Rebif but I wasn't sure I could self-inject in a muscle. :-)

Good luck,

Corrie