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A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
Sanger, TX

My doc wants me to choose what medicine I want to try next. I'm thinking Avonex. Who takes this & what are your side effects?

February 26, 2016 (edited)
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A MyMSTeam Member

Back when I was DX in 1997 my DR. had me do Avonex. Had flue like symptoms, big needle. My sister the nurse would give the shot to me every Friday so I had the weekend to recoup. I worked full time, still do.
After 2 years I started getting attacks every other month. I was fine for 2 years. My DR. changed me to Copaxone, Stayed on it from 2000 til just last year. It really kept me whole and worked for me. I would get one attack a year minor. As i got older they seem to be getting a little more serious. I have worked full time, I am self employed so , but still able to work. My insurance stopped offering Copaxone and now offer Glotopa. My attacks now have gotten a little more serious, leg weakness, numbness. So I have decided too start taking Tecfadera, an oral pill. I just keep praying and know God is with me always. I hope me sharing helps you all.

February 26, 2016
A MyMSTeam Member

I have been on Avonex for years without any major problems. I inject Friday evening & take NyQuil before bed. Usually sleep through any chills or aches. By mid morning I'm ready to take on the day!

March 6, 2016
A MyMSTeam Member

I just did my 1st injection of Avonex yesterday afternoon (1/4 dose). Afterwards (maybe an hr or so) my arm kinda hurt. Then a bit later I started itching (took OTC allergy med that helped with this) & after that I got the flu-like muscle aches. Sucked for a while. Went to bed for the night & woke up feeling better. Was able to go to work. Hope this helps

February 26, 2016
A MyMSTeam Member

Great Job @A MyMSTeam Member, might take some ibup about half an Hour before your shot to help with the flu like Symptoms! You have a GREAT Day!!!

February 29, 2016
A MyMSTeam Member

Avonex was horrible! I had someone come to my house on Friday night and give me the shot and I had the worst flu like symptoms and fever shaking and could not even reach the phone from my bed to call for help from shaking so bad ! It took til Monday morning to get over it! I then refused to take it anymore! The medicine was worse than the disease!! But they say everyone is different and if you can handle it for 3 months it stops. ?????

February 26, 2016

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