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Multiple Sclerosis
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Posted 9/22/2013 3:22 AM (GMT -8)
Hello, I'm new to this forum. Was just officially diagnosed on 9/16 after a numb thumb & finger 12/1/12 initiated a neurologist visit, followed by tingling legs in July and optic neuritis in August. Then came the flood of fatigue, left sided weakness (per specialist, it wasn't enough for me to notice) sporadic sharp pains in my hands & feet, a 'foggy' mental feeling that lasted a week, spastic muscles & joint pain.

I'm in remission now and mainly dealing with medication side effects from cymbalta, prescribed to help me with feeling anxious and overwhelmed. I'm to start Copaxone by Oct 7th and was wondering if anyone had advice? Like best time to take it? Etc.

The other meds aren't an option for me just yet, as I was positive for the JC virus and can't start off with any immunosuppressants. I was hoping to take Tecfidera, but I'm good with the decision to take Copaxone.

I work full-time & have two small kids. I'm hoping the side effects of Copaxone won't derail me for too long!
Posted 9/22/2013 7:29 AM (GMT -8)
I started copaxone 7 years ago in August. I've tolerated it really well. I'm still working full time as a public school teacher. My children were 9 and 12 when I was diagnosed.

I have only experienced mild, local side effects from Copaxone. Some people don't tolerate it. You can be allergic to it. I have experienced the copaxone IPIR. Make sure you are familiar with that. It's disturbing but it hasn't kept me from sticking to my daily injection.

I take my shot in the morning just after my shower. I am a bit lazy and hate taking the time to alcohol swab the injection site. I wash the site with soap and water and then inject.

I hope you find copaxone tolerable. It has worked well for me. I've experienced minimal progression since starting it.
Posted 9/22/2013 10:12 AM (GMT -8)
Thanks Gretchen. Do you still get IPIR after 7 years? I was hoping that was a side effect your boody would get used to. Is needle disposal a pain?
Posted 9/22/2013 11:49 AM (GMT -8)
I experienced several IPIRs in the first two years. I no longer get them.

I use an inexpensive little item called a "BD Safe-clip." It cuts the needle off. You are then allowed to toss the rest of the syringe away. The safe-clip stores the cut needles. My safe-clip finally filled after 3 years. I asked my doctor to dispose of the safe-clip in his bio waste sharps container. Then, I bought a new one. Every state has different regulations on needle disposal.

I hope this helps.
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