IVSM Question - Frequency

[davincidanes]

Good morning all.  For those of you familiar with these treatments, I have a question.
How long are the benefits supposed to last?  I do realize everyone is different.  I had
infusions 3 months ago with a dramatic reduction in symptoms.  I'm beginning to
feel the symptoms increasing again and am very uncomfortable. Would it be out of
line to ask my general neuro for another course?  My first appt. with the MS Specialist
is not until Feb. 24.

Thanks,
~Linda

[davincidanes]

Thanks for the advice, ess.  Did you see my response to you under the thread MRI images?  So frustrating...  I just want to feel better.  

[essdipity]

Linda, I'm pretty sure that the problem is not that the steroids have worn off, it's that you're having another relapse. If steroids work, this happens either right away or within about 2 weeks. They simply reduce the inflammation from a relapse, so we feel better. Time passes and we either do or don't have a further relapse, a totally separate event.

I have osteopenia, bones more brittle than normal but not qualifying as osteoporosis. I personally wouldn't hesitate to have IVSM infusions a couple of times a year, if needed. (I've needed only 2 over several years, though.) What I wouldn't do is have monthly steroid infusions. For me that would be asking for trouble.

I suggest you discuss this with your GYN, or whoever manages your osteoporosis. I do hope you are soon on a DMT, and that this question won't arise again soon.

ess

[davincidanes]

Thanks, Alex.  Yes, I have read about the side effects and do have concerns about the osteoporosis that I already have. It's something that I need to discuss in further detail with my neuro.  I'm going to see how I feel over the weekend and decide if I need to arrange to see her again for another treatment.

I appreciate it.

~Linda

[HVAC]

Some people are on maintenance steroids once a month. The only draw back is some people over time can get cataracs or brittle bones and other side effects. With anything it is risk/benefit. But your doctor should monitor you. Many people with other diseases such as Lupus and brain tumors are on more steroids.

Steroids work on inflammation they do not slow the progression of MS.

Alex