Switching MS meds after 7 years
Hello all, I'm a 60 year old female who's had MS since I was 22. This was 1988 and I was told there was no treatment for MS at that time. I was relapse free until 2017 when symptoms flared up again. I started Tecfidera oral capsules at that time and did great with zero side effects In 2023, my MRI showed 2 tiny new small lesions. The 2024 scan showed stability and no new lesions since the 2023 exam. My neurologist said we'd stay the course with Tecfidera. I now have a new neurologist who is an MS specialist. He suggested switching to a higher potency medication, ocrevus infusions, once every 6 months after the initial starting dose which is split into 2 doses, 2 weeks apart. His feeling is that this offers better protection against relapses and disability progression.
We see the him Tuesday to go over the patient information packet they gave us and set things up if we decide to proceed. I have some reservations about switching things up. I've had no side effects from the Tecfidera at all, however it seems to be losing its effectiveness. Has anyone used these meds, switched meds from oral to infusions? I'm curious to hear of your experiences and what you think of the ocrevus. Thanks in advance.
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Hi, I realize the apprehension of changing treatments over the years. Best of luck with your new decision. I, too, was diagnosed back in the early 1980's w/MS, eventually added numerous other autoimmune. I went thru all of the MS treatments over the years. 70 yrs old. Finally began Rituxan infusions 9 yrs ago, 1st every 6 months, now 4 months. Doing well w/it. No new lesions, stable MS. Secondary Progressive now. Still very active. I feel infusions have helped a great deal-can tell when due, energy level decreases & symptoms increase.