Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Support Group

This community is a place where members can discuss current events and weigh in on what's going on in the world.

0 Online

Eloise 10/02/2008

I will be starting Copaxone as soon as I get it filled. I was on Avonex, but the side effects were too horrendous even though it was working for me. I've been off of all MS meds. except LDN for approx. 2 wks. I think that I might be going backwards because I've developed a new symptom--having to use the restroom very frequently--sometimes every 15 minutes. I thought it might be due to my diabetes--but BS was absolutely perfect. So MS? No pain so probably not an infection. Just the need to 'go'.

Sinus infection on its way out but being replaced by HUGE/MAJOR anxiety about daily injections w/Copaxone. I probably need to talk to someone about this new fear of needles that I have developed. I'll do the auto-inject, but with this recent (in the past two hours) onset of depression, the thought of everyday injections is overwhelming. I know that many of you are on this drug and can offer reassurances! That's what I need right now. Anything you can tell me to help me with this fear/anxiety would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

deleted_user 10/02/2008

Hun, I'm not on Copaxon, but I know that needle is enough smaller it will be a breeze when compared to Avonex.

Everyone that I've heard talk about it says the side effects aren't as bad.

No way to know for sure what's the cause of your having to pee so often. Anxiety can cause that too. You'll have to talk to your doc about that one.

We're here if you need us.

deleted_user 10/02/2008

Don't be scared. I used the Autoject when i was on copaxone and you rarely felt the needle. It's the medicine that hurts because it's so acidic. But that only lasts a few minutes but you'll probably be left with a welt or a bruise. I had no side effects, but then again i had no positive effects either which is why i'm no longer on it.

Good luck. I hope Copaxone works for you.

deleted_user 10/02/2008

I am on Copaxone and am newly diagnosed in April. I never did shots and have no problem doing it everyday. I did develop huge lumps with pain that lasted for up to a month when I started. I figured out that if I heat for 10 minutes before and then another 15 minutes after the shot, there is nothing. I cannot even tell where I did it. Good luck!!

deleted_user 10/03/2008

I know your feeling. I have been type 1 diabetic since I am 3 (now 42) and had to start the MS drugs. I fear needles so much that I cannot even watch a person on Television taking a shot. What I do is 1) sing a song as the shot goes in, such as "just a little pinprick " from Pink Floyd or " Jonny be good> (my name). 2) wash area with warm cloth or warm shower before shot, warmth softens the skin and muscle tissue. 3) rub area for about 1 or 2 minutes afterwards. I am on rebiff which is 3x weekly cause copaxone wasnt working for me but the rebiff typically rerquires a premedication such as advil for me cause of side effects. I could not tolerate the auto injector, I found it easier to basically slowly put the needle in> More in control that way. Slowly push the plunger so it doesnt rip the muscle ( i think it does that if its pushed hard). Just play around and find what little trick works for you. Make it a friggin game!!!@!@ Draw a circle if you want. Make sure you rotate regularly so you dont get atrophy. Good luck.

xaviermom74 10/03/2008

I dont fear the needles I fear the side effects.

deleted_user 10/03/2008

If you dislike needles so much, another option could be low dose naltrexone. One tab @ bedtime. Check ldn.org online.

Join the Conversation