How long does Copaxone take to work?

Ocoee · Newbie Joined: Mar 08, 2006 Posts: 4

My neuro, who originally diagnosed me PPMS (Dec 2005), now thinks I may be having an relapse... So, I've just done a round of coticosteroids and have be advised to consider a CRAB drug.

I suggested Copaxone, but the neuro felt that this drug takes too long to begin working. He mentioned that it can take 6 months too reach full effect. Has anyone heard of Copaxone taking this long to take effect?

By the way, the neuro has suggested Betesoron.

Any insight is very much appreciated!

Thanks.

syckbastid · Family Member Joined: Jan 04, 2007 Posts: 46

From my understanding, all of the CRABs take time to reach their full effect, and that amount of time differs from person to person.

I am so jaded my the medical industry, I assume most Neuros suggest medication provided by the pharmecuetical firm that greases their palm best.

I work for one of the top ten hospitals in the US. 1 unit of Interferon beta-1a (Avonex, Rebif) costs the hospital a little over $8. When I received the first invoice for my monthly Avonex delivery (I have since ceased therapy), the bill was for over $1400. CRAAAAZY!

connieb · Family Member Joined: Oct 21, 2006 Posts: 90

From what I understand, interferons do indeed start working faster than Copaxone. I was told "at least 6 months" for Copaxone by Shared Solutions, but of course they would want to be very conservative in their estimate.

Brownsfan · Family Member Joined: Aug 26, 2005 Posts: 90

Teva/Shared Solutions studies clearly show that copaxone doesn't even start making much of a difference until the 6-month mark. After that however, it appears that efficacy continues to increase the longer you are on. However, I would think the round of steriods would provide you some protection until the copaxone can start to build up in your system. Copaxone long-term results seem very promising. I've been on for 2 years with no relapses and no side effects.