@A MyMSTeam Member You've just been diagnosed and this is the first medicine you're getting? If so, THAT IS AWESOME!
I begged for it when I got my diagnosis in 2011 and I had to go through 3 years of constant full blown relapses and loads of new lesions before my doctor would RELUCTANTLY try me on it.
Now, keep this in mind - I first was put on Copaxone and then Avonex. I had terrible side effects and SEVERAL relapses on both. My brain is a spotted mess. I literally had to strike a deal with my neurologist after two terrible relapses on Avonex (the second one I tried) before he would put me on Gilenya.
He was afraid it was going to kill me. I did have some risks. I have had some echo-cardiograms and electrocardiograms that have given him cause for concern, plus I have a history of low blood pressure. So, there was reason for concern.

My first dose of Gilenya was April 25, 2014. I've never had a single side effect. NOT ONE.

However, on April 10, 2015 - I had a pretty bad relapse that landed me in the hospital on a whopping dose of I.V. steroids. Then in Physical, Occupational, and Speech therapy for six weeks. The neurologist tried to get me to consider switching to a new medicine and I vehemently refused. ONE relapse in a year and NO side effects as vs relapsing every few months, plus all the horrendous side effects? Um..I'll stick with Gilenya, thanks.

There are potential side effects. Not everyone can take it.

Not everyone has as great an outcome. But do I personally, highly recommend it? ABSOLUTELY!

Mentioned Users

A MyMSTea...

I have been on it for 3 years now an I like it. I do to seem to be having as many flare ups. And it is a ton better then taking the shots.

Thanks @A MyMSTeam Member for your reply. That's so encouraging. The neurologist did explain the risks to me but said he thought it would be the best med for me as I have developed a pronounced stagger in my gait and severe balance difficulties after only 6 months of it starting. I'm like a drunk! Like you say, I'd be happy to take the risk to know that there'll be fewer relapses. Its all new to me but my life has been turned upside down very suddenly. Glad to hear Gilenya is working so well for you. Thanks so much and good luck for the future. I'll let you know how I get on. Alli x

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A MyMSTea...

I'm doing mine at a place called Concentra. They are a place that does this for Gilenya Go program. I get my first 14 days of Gilenya free for participating in the Gilenya Go program, and if I'm not mistaken, I think I'll be getting it free from here on out. I'll have to ask my representative, Muhammad, when he calls me back. That'll be cool, my copay is $60 a month.

My insurance pays a percentage. I get co-pay assistance and pay nothing.