Finding the right treatment for you

Besides considering the effectiveness and side effect profile of a drug, you also need to think about how it will fit in with your life.

With so many options to choose from, it’s becoming increasingly possible to find a treatment that not only fits with your lifestyle but also your future plans, whether you’re taking off to far-flung destinations, going to regular social events, or planning your own wedding.

Before your next clinic visit, do a little preparation – it’ll help you talk (and answer questions) about what’s important to you:¹

• Would I prefer a capsule, tablet, infusion, or injection?
• How often will I have to take it?
• How long will I have to take it for?
• How will it help my MS?
• Would I like to start a family soon?
• What are the potential side effects, and are they manageable for me?
• How often will I have to attend my clinic for monitoring?

Once you have started on a treatment, you'll be monitored on a regular basis and will have the opportunity to discuss how it’s going with your healthcare team. It's important that you stick to the dosing schedule your doctor has outlined. This helps the treatment to be effective.^1–3 If you are having trouble taking the therapy as prescribed, talk openly with your healthcare team and explain any issues you are facing – they are there to help find a treatment option that fits you best.^1,4

1. National MS Society. Adherence. https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Treating-MS/Medications/Adherence [accessed June 2020].
2. Cohen BA, et al. Mult Scler Relat Disord. 2015;4:75–82.
3. Hupperts R, et al. Clin Ther. 2014;36:1946–57.
4. MS Trust. How is MS treated? https://www.mstrust.org.uk/about-ms/how-ms-treated [accessed June 2020].