New Oral Pill

[rghoyle]

I recently was DX in May 2010 with RRMS and I was given Avonex for treatment; which I stopped using in Dec because I just had panic attacks each time I gave myself the shots even though they don't hurt and I was okay with the side effects. I just grew a fear of the needles after a while until I couldn't do them.
I see they now have a pill approved and wanted to know if anyone is using it yet?
Can I request this treatment?
How much is the cost after insurance so far?
Any major side effects known yet?
I know I need to start treatment again so I really want to see about this med. My next neuro appointment is April so I want to have my plan ready.
Thanks all!

[shermay]

Hello,

My Neuro wants to put me on Gilenya, but so far I too (like Alex) have refused it.

I know there are major issues with the s/e, it's stronger than the normal CRAB but less than Tysabri so at the moment I am sat on the shelf just waiting for more positive results - having said that, I really don't have much faith in my Neuro.  If you trust your Neuro and can hold his/her hand then that is half the battle - IMO.

I am not sure how many of us are on this treatment in the Forum, maybe someone else will chime in with their experiences of Gilenya.

Debs

[HVAC]

The new pill is Gilenya. It has not been on the market long. They do not know what the long term risks are. It is more expensive than the injectables. It has a long list of possible side effects. Most Doctors are offering only to those folks who the other drugs do not work for. You can always ask about it. I can not take any of the other drugs and was offered it but turned it down. It has to be a personal decision with each person weighing benefit and risk.

Alex