Thinking of going on Tysabri

[retiredfireguy]

I'm pretty sure I will be going on Tysabri soon. Went and saw a new doctor last month. For having MS for 24 years and no having to go out on disablity is ok I think. Any thoughts?

The other thing is I have been on Betaserone since it came out.

[Rich Marcell]

I've been diagnosed for 20 years. Still gainfully employed, at least until the end of the year when my current position is eliminated. Looking for a new one at the moment.

I was on Betaseron since the beginning as well (only lottery I ever won :-). Switched to Tysabri at the recommendation of my neurologist in November of 2007 after 2 years of more frequent than normal flares (1 + a year vs. 1 every 2-3 years) the last 2 years on it. Just had #33 (I think) 2 weeks ago. Haven't had a flareup since I started and the MRIs have been pretty much the same.

Good luck.

[CasinoKathy]

Wishing you lotsa luck if you go with the Tysabri! I just started it this past January myself. Had been on Beta since dx in July of 2007.

I know it has helped my weak leg bend more when walking!

[0485c10]

Betaseron from 2005 to 2008
Tysabri 2008-present.

When beta stopped being as effective in me, doc had me do a 30 day washout period from beta before starting Tysabri. I haven't regretted my MS meds since. At times I second guess them, but never regretted them.

I had no side affects from Tysabri. Just make sure your well fluidized before the infusion. When I wasn't drinking some extra non caffeinated beverages before the infusion, I got very sleepy.

Others have reported headaches or upset stomaches that got better if they drank a little extra before the infusion and made sure to eat something before the infusion--the infusion on an empty stomach wasn't a good idea for few to be most comfortable during the infusion & they corrected it by eating and drinking something before the infusion..

I think the switch from beta to tysabri is a good idea for you. Its the one that I did.

[ragjwg]

Just finished #21

I just finished my 21st treatment with Tysabri, but I take it differently than most. For the first 16 treatments, I went in monthly and since then, it's every other month for me. My Neuro is adamant about testing...bloodwork every 3-6 months and MRI's every 6 months. One test that he continues to monitor is Tysabri antibodies although I was told by the Touch people, most docs don't do this because insurance may not cover it. I find it a comfort to be completely monitored. Ask you Neuro about bloodwork and MRI's, how often, etc. I usually take Ibuprofen before I go. Can't say I have too many side effects, except sometimes the first 48 hours after the infusion, I am tired. Hate taking any meds, but ok with this one.