THE AVONEX CHANNEL: AVONEX TIP #2

AVONEX TIP #2

Avonex is a life saver for me also. After my first 2 injections, the flu like symptoms only last about 4 hours. BE SAFE, BE STRONG
(Bubba)

This is gonna sound weird, but it’s the truth. I have had MS for 10 years as of February 25th, and been taking Avonex for all of it. My neuro, and my MS Specialist said that the MS was bad enough, they don't think it would have been different on another med. I had 1 exacerbation every 5 to 6 months for 7 1/2 years. But then, I am currently on the longest run of exacerbation free time in my life, 2 years and almost 2 months. The side effects, the flu like symptoms, the muscle weakness and fatigue, and fatigue in general was pretty
bad to begin with, but it gets better with time. I do my shots on Saturday nights, sleep thru some of the side effects, and spend Sundays watching Nascar or football. I have nothing but good things to say about Avonex. Yes, its rough sometimes, but what isn't? Many (((Goood Luck Hugz))) are coming to ya. ~~~Bubba

I know that the size of the needle is scary, but the once a week part makes it worth while. I always use an ice pack about 10 minutes before I do the injection. It basically numbs up the injection site. The most important thing I can tell you is to make some practice injections. Take a pen, or a pencil in hour hand just like you would the needle. The reason for this is to get use to getting the needle all the way in, so you don't have to push it thru the rest of the way little by little. Once you do the injections once or twice, it gets easier.
Plus, you don't have to worry about it for a full week. SIDE EFFECTS: the most common one is flu like symptoms. They last about 6 to 8 hours, but it varies with each person. Ask your doctor about all of this info, because I am use to it, and may not describe it the best. I am glad you’re getting on something.
I myself am on Avonex. I love the fact that I only have to do it once a week. Side effects for me are just flu like symptoms that last about 6 hours usually about 4 to 6 hours after the injection. As far as the length of the needle, it’s not that bad once you do it 2 or 3 times. I used a pen or a Popsicle stick to practice with. Hold it in your hand the same way you plan on holding the needle. The faster you get the needle in, the better. We don't want to get it half way in and then stop. That makes it even harder. I wish I could be more help sweetie. I'm glad you’re getting some treatment started. I'll be praying for you and for only good things to come your way. BE SAFE, BE STRONG Posted by (Bubba)

The side effect do get better in time. But if they are kickin' your butt this bad now, maybe a different medication is a good idea. If they found a problem with the blood work, I am sure they will be thinking of changing something for ya. I had major flu like symptoms for 2 days when I first started Avonex. But after a few months, it got shorter and shorter. I do my shots on Saturdays now, and all I do on Sundays is help 1 lady carry her laundry over to the wash room, and watch the races. So Sundays are gone for

me. Major muscle weakness and spasms, pain like you have when you have the flu, and all of that. It usually gets better in time. But you may have to change meds. Make sure you talk with your neuro about this, and the problems they have found. ~~~~~Bubba

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AVONEX TIP #2