Re: MYASTHENIA GRAVIS

Posted By CCF Neuro MD on July 07, 1997 at 20:37:24:

In Reply to: MYASTHENIA GRAVIS posted by D GRAY on June 28, 1997 at 18:41:24:








I AM A 44 YR OLD FEMALE, M.G. PATIENT, THYMECTOMY MAR.7/97  CURRENTLY ON 30 MG PREDNISONE, E.O.D, DOWN FROM 80/80 , 'WEANED' FROM MESTINON YESTERDAY AND PROUD TO SAY, PROGRESSING VERY WELL.   I WAS DIAGNOSED MAY/96 WITH FINAL RESULTS OF TENSILON TEST FROM UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA, OCT.96.   AS I BEGAN EXPERIENCING T.I.A.s ABOUT JUNE OF '96, I WAS TOLD TO TAKE 80MG OF ASPIRIN, DAILY.  THE SURGEON ASKED ME TO STOP, FOR THE OPERATION. OF COURSE, AND I HAVE NOT TAKEN IT SINCE. IS IT SAFE TO MIX THE ASPIRIN WITH THE PREDNISONE?. I KEEP FORGETTING TO ASK MY NEUROLOGIST AND I DON'T THINK HE KNOWS I'M NOT TAKING IT ANY MORE.  THEY ARE AT PRESENT, TRYING TO DETERMINE IF THE TIAs ARE M.G. INDUCED.  THANKING YOU IN ADVANCE.




Hello, D,
  The treatment of myasthenia gravis involves careful use of anticholinesterases and immunosuppresants.  The later includes prednisone.  As far as the interaction of prednisone with aspirin,  based on my literature search, prednisone may decrease the serum concentration of aspirin, which in turn potentially decrease the effects of aspirin (J.Clinical Pharmacology, 26:334:1988).  However, this usually does not warrent the discontinuation of either.  Careful clinical monitering, in my opinion, should be sufficient.
  Your question on the association between TIAs and MG is a difficult one. It has been documented that the two diseases can mimic each other to a great deal.  This generally requires much more careful evaluation.  Please be advised that our department is nationally well known for specializing in both stroke, led by Dr. A.Furlan, and MG, led by Dr. K. Levin.  You will benefit the most if you can come to Cleveland Clinic for a full outpatient visit.  Please call toll free [phone] or [phone] ext.45559 for an appointment at your earliest convenience.  Hope to see you soon.
  This information is provided for general medical education purposes only.  Please consult your primary physician for the diagnosis and treatment of your specific medical condition.