Copaxone???

[candy158]

Hi guys,
Just before we go to Cuba, I am very concerned about the reactions I am having on the Copaxone.

I had the nurse come on Friday to review with me the procedure of the shots, and the shot that she assisted with, is still red, swollen, itchy, and I have a big lump under neath the skin.

Many of the sites that I have used the last 7 weeks, have, either bruising, that is still painful, or lumps, or indents on my thighs, and it feels like I have pitts in the muscles of my arms, ( on the back where you do the shots) .... I know it is NOT muscle, but it is the way that I can describe what is happening.

I do not know if I should take it to Cuba with me or not, and I have contacted SS, but it is a holiday this weekend, and I don't know if I will hear from them tomorrow, and we leave on Tues. eve.

Anyone else have these kinds of troubles, and if so, what was the solution?  Is there something else that we can do to stop the progression of this disease.

Please help, if you can ,

Candy

[candy158]

thank you all, we are going to persist., and see what happens, I have been doing the massage, and hot/cold compresses, but it doesn't seem to help to much, so, maybe we just need a good old trip to Cuba............. and the heat..LOL .. I think that is what THIS dr; ordered.... take care all, and will be in touch with pic's soon....

[rendean]

Dear Candy,

The reactions you are having are quite common unfortunately. I had them too. Time  helps as your body adjusts. For the pits , you can massage after 24 hours. Use warmth when you massage the lumps. I used to massage them while in the shower to break up the lumpy tissue and it worked well for me. Everyone is  different so play around and see what is most comfortable for you.

For the immediate itching , I used the ice packs they sent and if you ask they will send you all you need.

What setting is  your auto injector set on ? Adjusting the depth might help. I used to use a #5 setting on my arms (my least favorite spot for injecting) and a 6 or7 on my thighs. The deeper setting helped prevent the reaction's severity.

I hope these suggestions helped. How long are you going to be in Cuba, 2 weeks? I don't know that I would personally stop them for 2 weeks since you just started the drug. Try SS again and see if you can get someone  before you leave the country.

Have fun while you are there. Be careful of the sun as you may burn more easily with the drugs you are taking. Have some black beans and rice, along with some tostones for me!

Ren

[candy158]

I know, that is what I was thinking, but I don't know if it will cause any problelms......:(

[SarahL2491]

Not taking shots but playing devils advocate, would it be such a disaster if you took a vacation from the shots while you are on vacation, given the problems you are having ?