Managing Common Side Effects
All multiple sclerosis (MS) treatments can have some side effects, but they don’t affect everybody in the same way. Every person responds differently to different medications. Some people will have reactions; others may not.
Some injectable MS treatments may cause flu-like side effects, such as fever, chills, muscle aches, and tiredness. For many people, the flu-like side effects lessen or go away over time. But if you do experience these symptoms, talk to your doctor. He or she may be able to recommend ways to get symptom relief, such as:
- If you receive an injectable MS treatment, change the time of day that you take your injection. Many people choose bedtime so they can sleep through many of the side effects
- Take over-the-counter pain medications. They can help reduce pain or fever
- Look at the big picture. Remember that you can take MS treatment to slow the progression of physical disability and reduce relapses
For more suggestions on managing flu-like symptoms, call the MS ActiveSource Support Specialists toll free at 1-800-456-2255.
While fatigue, or the lack of physical and/or mental energy, is often a symptom of MS, it can also be caused by some MS medications. Depending on the type of fatigue, your doctor may recommend aerobic exercise, physical therapy, or occupational therapy. Additionally, you may be given some tips to help reduce fatigue, such as prioritizing, pacing yourself, delegating work to others, etc.
Other common side effects that may be associated with MS treatments are:
Infusion related side effects: The common side effects of infusion medications vary, but can often be controlled. Notify your health care provider if you notice signs or symptoms of allergic reaction, such as: hives, chills, itching, rash, trouble breathing, nausea, chest pain, flushing of skin, dizziness, and low blood pressure. Serious allergic reactions, though not common, usually happen within 2-hours of the start of the infusion, but can happen at any time after receiving an infusion. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any symptom of allergic reaction, even if it happens after you leave the infusion center. You may need treatment if you are having an allergic reaction.
Mood changes: Depression is common in people with MS. It is managed the same way as depression that occurs without the medicine: an antidepressant medication and/or counseling.
Injection-site effects: Injection treatments may cause reactions at the injection site, such as redness, bruising and pain, etc. Rotating the injection site, icing the area before and after the injection and cortisone cream may be helpful in reducing skin irritation from injection.
Headache: Headache can also be a symptom of MS as well. It is important to speak to your doctor about side effects associated with your MS therapy. Often times your doctor can help you deal with these effectively.
Menstruation changes: Sometimes MS treatments can cause changes in menstruation, such as irregular bleeding, early or late periods. Speak to a gynecologist if you experience menstruation changes that concern you.
Talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have regarding treatment side effects. In some cases, changing medication may be recommended.
