Side effects of multiple sclerosis medications
Disease-modifying medications for multiple sclerosis (MS) can have significant side effects.
Interferon beta
Side effects of treatment with interferon beta-1a (Avonex and Rebif) and interferon beta-1b (Betaseron) may include:
- Flu-like symptoms (such as fatigue, chills, fever, and muscle aches) for 1 to 2 days after an injection. These symptoms, which can be debilitating for some people, often stop after 2 to 3 months of treatment. Taking a pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen just before and after each injection may help reduce these symptoms.
- Redness, swelling, or tenderness at the injection site. This is more common with Betaseron and Rebif. Taking a nonprescription pain reliever just before or after an injection can reduce this side effect.
- Depression, anxiety, confusion, and eating and sleeping disturbances. These are not very common and may be related as much to MS as to the treatment. Talk to your doctor if these symptoms last more than a day or two.
Glatiramer acetate
Side effects of glatiramer acetate (Copaxone) may include:
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site (this occurs in most people).
- Flushing.
- Chest pain, rapid heartbeat, and shortness of breath.
- Anxiety.
- Tightness in the throat.
These side effects are rarely serious and usually go away on their own shortly after the injection. You may have one or several brief episodes of these effects during the course of treatment with glatiramer acetate.
Natalizumab
Common side effects of treatment with natalizumab (Tysabri) may include:
- Headache.
- Tiredness.
- Minor infections, such as a urinary tract infection.
- Stomachache.
- Joint pain.
- Diarrhea.
More serious side effects of Tysabri may include:
- Allergic reaction to the shot.
- Serious infections, such as pneumonia.
- A serious and life-threatening disease called progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML).
If you are taking Tysabri, you will be watched closely for signs of any serious side effects.
| Author: | Monica Rhodes | Last Updated: February 28, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Colin Chalk, MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology | |
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