First and second line treatment ... Gilenya

[Cann1980]

Please explain the first and second treatments... Why not jut start at #2 if it is better?!?!
Coverage reasons?

Looking at gilenya... Who's on this? I will research more but just like to know who I can bounce questions off of. :)

[Cann1980]

Thanks Alex... You are right I can always switch if it is not working. I am just a little stunned all this is happening so fast.. My journey began years before I knew however I only went to a doctor this past April for the first time. :/
Have you had any brain MRI for ms scans? I wonder if the cancer treatments are helping to keep your ms at bay? Do you feel as though your ms flares or symptoms fluctuate with your treatments?
I am just so happy that your treatments are working!!!

[HVAC]

It does sound like its time to go to the second line. I used to be afraid of drugs and the risks until I got Cancer. The drugs I take have bad side effects and risks but it beats the alternative. I have learned everyone reacts differently to all medications.

I was opting for Tecifedera until I got Cancer now they won't put me on anything.

Whatever decision you make you can always change if the medication does not work for you.


Alex

[cubbiesfan918]

You don't have to apologize! Corrie reminded me that your hubby hunts a lot and than I recall our emails about the country!

I switched to Tecfidera when I found my new fabulous Neuro in October. I am grateful every day for the change :) I already took vitamins twice a day, with breakfast and dinner so Ive just added 1 extra pill to the regimen. Very minimal flushing feeling that I only notice in my ears and is few and far between. I will take this over the needle and have high hopes for my insurer accepting it soon. Although, I just found out that my exceptional insurance plan does not meet Obamacare standards so perhaps my new insurer will cover it.

I always think of you guys and hope you are doing well. Hope you are ready for the holidays with your 3 super cuties!

XOXOX
Lizzie

[Cann1980]

Lizzie .. I recall you asking before about tecfidera when the copaxaone was troubling your sugar levels....  Did you switch meds? I am sorry I have not  kept up :/

Alex.. I was on my phone replying to your message if your good news.... My message erased .. I got frustrated... And I never did wish you well...  So I wanted to say congrats to you ... I had asked at the time what you will do to celebrate. :)

I am not doing a switch now. I go for MRI in January then the decision will be made. 3 relapses in a year is too much as per my neuro ... So off I go with all the pamphlets to peruse for the next month .... Seriously he have me a huge project right before Xmas!!! Lol ;)

[cubbiesfan918]

I don't want to say too much, but I know you are the queen of research and hope you find a better alternative :) Alex gave great perspective, thinking of you!

[HVAC]

Gilenya works better but has more side effects and potential health risks. The first line medications have been used longer and do not have as many side effects or health risks.

Alex