Finding the right treatment for you

How will your treatment fit in with your life? 

Besides considering the side effect profile of a drug, you also need to think about how it will fit in with your life. With so many options to choose from, it’s becoming increasingly possible to find a treatment that not only fits with your lifestyle but also your future plans, whether you’re taking off to a far-off destination, going to regular social events, or planning your own wedding. 

Before your next clinic visit, do a little preparation – it’ll help you talk (and answer questions) about what’s important to you: 

 

  • Would I prefer a capsule, tablet, infusion, or injection?
  • How often will I have to take it?
  • How long will I have to take it for?
  • Would I like to start a family soon?
  • What are the potential side effects, and are they manageable for me? 
  • How often will I need to get bloodwork done?

Once you have started on a treatment, you'll be monitored on a regular basis and will have the opportunity to discuss how it’s going with your healthcare team. It's important that you stick to the dosing schedule your doctor has outlined. This helps the treatment to be effective. If you are having trouble taking the therapy as prescribed, talk openly with your healthcare team and explain any issues you are facing – they are there to help find a treatment option that fits you best. 

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When I start a patient on a disease modifying therapy, we discuss the fact that the treatment can always be changed if things aren’t working out – if it’s not having the desired effects on the disease or if there are unmanageable side effects. Discussing a change in treatment really depends on the main reason for changing. If this is driven by unmanageable side effects, we will focus more on the potential side effects of other medications.

Dr. Sarah Morrow, Neurologist*

Associate Professor in the Department of Clinical Neurological Science

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* Dr. Sarah Morrow is a practicing neurologist at an MS Clinic in Canada

MS can change your life. But it doesn’t have to define it.

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