Immunotherapy
When people with MS start on an immunotherapy there are many issues to consider.
What you need to know!
A person with MS starting on immunotherapy requires comprehensive support and information. The main areas of consideration for the service providers are those concerning the person with MS and the drug he/she will be using.
The person with MS
Factors, which contribute to how a person with MS will manage immunotherapy, include:
- The level of knowledge they have of the disease process, in particular, their own disease course.
- The time since diagnosis.
- Their support network (relatives or friends, general practitioner and community).
- How they currently manage their MS.
- Expectations of the immunotherapy.
- The disabilities experienced by the individual (visual impairment, tremor etc).
All of these factors will determine what informational needs and support the person with MS commencing on immunotherapy requires and which immunotherapy may be the most appropriate for them. If necessary, time should be set aside to educate the person with MS prior to commencing therapy.
The immunotherapy
The immunotherapies, which are currently available on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme in Australia, are Betaferon (Schering), Avonex (CSL), Copaxone (Aventis) and Rebif (Serono). The potential benefits of these treatments are a decrease in the frequency and severity of attacks, decreased risk of disability and decreases in the number of brain lesions.
Knowledge of the actual drug and treatment regime, including the injection technique and management of possible side effects, are of paramount importance for both the person with MS and their general practitioner. Education materials such as videos and books are available and should be provided in conjunction with practical demonstrations of the chosen immunotherapy.
Discussion with the person's general practitioner and the local health service/community nursing service is an integral part of supporting the person with MS prior to and during immunotherapy.
It is essential that people with MS have ongoing support in the form of direct and easy contact with health providers in order to manage the issues associated with continuing and/or changing immunotherapy and the disease course itself.
