Copaxone use linked to higher NAA levels via MRI
Submitted by art on Fri, 2009-05-15 08:18.
New data provided evidence that long-term treatment with COPAXONE (glatiramer acetate injection) may offer sustained protection from neuronal/axonal injury. This protective effect was reflected biologically by a significant increase in N-acetylaspartate (NAA), a specific marker of neuronal mitochondrial function, in treated versus non-treated relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) patients.
While we don't really understand the relationship between NAA and brain damage in MS, it is good that someone is starting to look at markers of disease progression beyond lesions and EDSS, which so far have not provided very good surrogates for improvement in MS.
Patricia Cooke Smith What is
Patricia Cooke Smith
What is the take on long term copaxone and walking well? Don't work too hard and enjoy the spring weather. I am happy to know that I may still be able to tell what season I am in as I am starting to find sitting easier that walking. I am still hoping for a great break through soon. My best to you. Patricia Smith
I did very well, taking
I did very well, taking Copaxone for 2 1/2 years, until I had two allergic reactions about 4 months apart. I had hives so bad that I could hardly sit still and a hard time breathing. I wonder "why" this occurred after I had been taking it for so long.
I wonder how many others have suffered an allergic reaction from Copaxone, as well? Did it occur after long-term use, or short-term use? And, what are the chances that it would happen again, if Copaxone would be started, again?
Just some thoughts...Thinking as I'm typing.
Kathy in Oregon
I have been taking Copaxone
I have been taking Copaxone since December - I was on a different treatment prior to that. I had a reaction in April - I thought I was having a heart attack. From what I found out from Copaxone, Neuro, and the ER Doc is that it is not all that uncommon. It usually occurs after you have been taking it for awhile. They don't know what causes it but it's not an allergic reaction per se - but rather a reaction. Neuro thought I got into a vein, ER doc (I work at a hospital) said that would be like winning the lottery ... it is just a reaction and Copaxone Nurse said that it isn't uncommon and passes usually within 10 or 15 minutes but you have to try to stay calm. I just needed to know that it wouldnt get worse (like allergic reactions can) and they say it wont.
Crystal
I, too have had a reaction
I, too have had a reaction to Copaxone last year that was similar. Yes, your heart starts beating fast and it is hard to breath because you are seriously afraid as to what is happening. If you read the information and ask the manufacturer of Copaxone questions, and lots of them, you will know that this can happen. For many, it never occurs. There are different side effects for each individual perhaps. The smaller gauge needle for injecting Copaxone now is so much better. Less pain and virtually no injection side reaction is positive for so many using Copaxone.
Be Well,
Kathy