I did not read all the replies (sorry) but wanted to tell you that I did Betaseron for 6 months till my liver went crazy. Did Copaxone for 4 years till I went crazy. I felt awful on it. I couldnt think, I was loggy and foggy and just felt awful. I told my MD I would rather be in a wheel chair and feel good than be up and walking and feel crappy all the time.

its been more than 2 years without. I dont have more spells. I do feel TONS better and think my diet has kept me on track. Just because I chose to go without their meds didnt mean I gave up. I take good care of me. I eat extremely well, I take my vitamin D (extremely important) and I exercise. I havent felt this good in years, as long as I keep my stress under control.

I've had MS for 22 years. The first 10 I was not on any medication. Then I was on Copaxone for 8 yrs with a 9 month pregnancy break. When the MRI showed activity the neuro suggested rebif. I did that for 8 months. Not terrible side effects but I only took the 1/2 dose. It was not effective, based on MRI, so for the past 3 years I have been med free. I do take supplements and try to eat healthfully. Reading some studies coming out I am not convinced that the meds are helpful enough long term to warrant the side effects and risks. I have never done steroids with any of the flares.

Forgot to say I feel better than when first diagnosed, much less severe relapses, and not as frequent. I've also had 5 children youngest is 3 months. No permanent disability that interferes with daily life, though I do have lots of scar tissue from the years of shots :)