Multiple Sclerosis_ Avonex injections

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Does anybody use Avonex injections and if yes, what experience have you made with it ?

Guest · Guest

I have been doing avonex injections for almost 4 years - since my initial diagnosis. at first I had flu like symptoms (fever, achiness, chills, etc) for several hours after the shot, which is only once a week. but your body gets used to it and those symptoms have subsided. I do take Aleve just before I take the shot - it helps tremendously - and do the shots at bedtime so you pretty much sleep thruogh the symptoms, if any.

it has definitely helped to limit my exacerbations - I've had a few, but nothing major. good luck.

Danny · Supporter Joined: 23 Jul 2005 Posts: 346

I don’t suffer from MS but I have been learning about Avonex and am willing to share with you what know about the drug’s effects, especially side effects as they are likely to show.
One of the most common reaction is suffering from the flu like symptoms, during the first few weeks/moths of Avonex treatment. By talking to your doctor about such side effects, you may be able to control them or lessen them. Many people take painkillers for such symptoms and continue to take the drug if they find it beneficial in treating MS.
Depression is likely to occur, so you may wanna pay attention to this. Do not think about why you may be feeling down but talk to your doctor about the options. You should know that not every drug should be dismissed because of the side effects and that many side effects can be treated-talking about any drug. However, of course there are side effects when stopping a drug is a must.
Other problems with red and white blood cells may occur, you may experience heart problems, thyroid problems and this is why patients who take Avonex should be monitored while on the drug. Liver should be closely watched.
In the studies that were done, patients who were taking the drug experienced slowing the progression and fewer exacerbations

Guest · Guest

Coming very late, but must add my own experience. I have been on Avonex for over a year and a half now, and I HATE IT.

I was on Copaxone for 3 years first, and HAD to go off it because my skin tends to be allergic and the spots weren't going away fast enough for me to continue after so much time on the drug. Also, the injections were every day.

However, when I go back to the MS clinic for my yearly check in, I am going back on Copaxone as fast as they can get me approval. Avonex, for me, is *horrible*. I endure THREE DAYS of muscle-ache/fever symptoms and have to take pills the whole time to control it (and I have a high pain tolerance due to all my other conditions). And the needles feel horrible. Even though they are only once a week, I was SO much happier on Copaxone. The needles were much tinier and faster and had no side-effects except some itchiness and a red spot at the injection site, and who cares about that?

O Avonex, how I despise thee.

Mitamins · Silver Member Joined: 11 Jan 2007 Posts: 166

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Multiple Sclerosis_ Avonex injections

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