This Is MS Multiple Sclerosis Knowledge & Support Community

Hello,

I have a question that has probably already been answered somewhere on this website. I recently went to the doctor for a yearly follow-up exam and MRI that did not turn out as well as I would have hoped. I can't stop thinking about it. I am currently taking one of the approved crab drugs. My question is how can a study be done stating that any drug can delay progression of RRMS when everyone's MS is different and you cannot predict when you are going to have an attack? I have had MS for 8 years and it seems like the only thing that is different that has to do with my treatment is that my prescription comes in pre-filled syringes now. I guess I am just frustrated.

Thank you,

Alicia

Hi Alicia

My question is how can a study be done stating that any drug can delay progression of RRMS when everyone's MS is different and you cannot predict when you are going to have an attack?

Personally, IMO, it's very hard and I have not found any convincing evidence or studies to suggest that in fact the CRABs delay progression.

Most Phase III studies are of 2 years duration, everyone's MS is different as you said, and MS lasts a life time once you're diagnosed. I think the CRABs have been approved by the FDA on the basis that for some people they reduce the number of relapses, not necessarily delay progression (although the pharmaceutical companies would try to convince you otherwise )

If someone has seen some research indicating any of the CRABs significantly delay progression for a large percentage of people with MS I'd love to learn about it.

You're not alone Alicia--I think a good number of us are probably frustrated right along with you.

Sharon

..

Hello,

Well, I was hoping that by some miracle maybe my MRI results would show that some of my existing lesions had disappeared or at least that there were no new ones. I currently have an active lesion with a couple of black holes by it that the doctor was concerned about because of the lesion's size. From what I have read black holes means that this part of your brain is no longer active due to tissue loss. I also have a few smaller lesions here and there from previous attacks. I am not having any symptoms due to this new lesion currently. My doctor said that a lesion in this spot would make my left arm and leg weak if it were to affect me.

It just seems like after all that I do to try to take care of myself as far as this disease goes nothing works very well. I usually leave my yearly follow-up exam feeling sad about what my doctor has to say. I almost would rather not know about new lesions and optic nerves that are deteriorating especially if I am not experiencing any physical symptoms at the time.


Thank you,

Alicia