The neurologist rang today to discuss my recent brain/spine mri. He said there are no new lesions on the brain but a few new lesions on the spine.
We had discussed the progression of my ms at my appointment with him in August and that was why the mri was booked.
I am currently on copaxone, but the doctor today said he thinks I should begin tryabri? Think thats how it is spelt. Once a month infusion at hospital. He said it was ok for me to take as I had breast cancer a few years ago and still on tamoxifen and this would not affect this.
I would really love to hear of anyones else experience. Thanks a million
Tysabri is estimated to reduce relapses by about 70% as opposed to the 30% average with Copaxone. Having an infusion once per month should make things easier rather than having a daily (or 3 times weekly) injection. The risks from Tysabri are well known and you are checked regularly to make sure you aren’t affected.
The worst risk from Tysabri is a rare brain virus known as PML. Before you start Tysabri your blood is tested to see if you are potentially at risk (to get PML you have to have encountered a symptomless virus called John Cunningham virus - or JCV). Even if you are positive for JCV, there are degrees of risk. In any case, even a JCV positive person can definitely take Tysabri for 2 years without being at risk.
Other than that, there are other side effects that some people encounter, similar to many drugs. In my case, I have a slightly dodgy liver, so my liver enzymes were raised dangerously high. It was a big disappointment that I had to come off Tysabri as a result. I still think it’s a great DMD and would take it like a shot in your position.
Talk it through with your MS nurse. That should allay any worries you have about the drug, Best of luck.