Treatments and Therapies
Topics on this page:
- Being diagnosed
- Getting to know MS treatments and therapies
- Why go on MS therapy?
- Choosing an MS therapy
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Being diagnosed
Being diagnosed may be as simple as yes or no, or it can take months, even years, and it's possible that you may feel perfectly fine during much of that time. When your doctor first diagnoses you with MS, it can be overwhelming. You and your loved ones will probably have a million different questions. But one thing that is really important after your diagnosis is taking a proactive approach to managing your disease. Ask your doctor questions, do your own research about MS and treatment options, and get connected by joining a local support group that's right for you.
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Getting to know MS treatments and therapies
When you are diagnosed, you'll find that there are several effective treatments approved by the FDA that can help most people manage their MS. It's important to start treatment once you and your doctor decide which therapy is right for you. Also, once you begin your therapy, it's very important to stay with it to get the best results.
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Why go on MS therapy?
- It may slow disability progression
- It may reduce the frequency and severity of relapses
- It may reduce the development of new brain lesions as seen on an MRI.*
*The exact correlation between MRI findings and the current or future clinical status of patients, including disability progression, is unknown.
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Choosing an MS therapy
There are a number of treatment options available, but it can be overwhelming to try and choose one. You and your doctor can determine the best treatment for you based on a therapy's specific benefits, any side effects that may accompany it, as well as when and how you need to take it. And remember, if you are already on a treatment, it is important to re-evaluate your treatment periodically with your doctor to make sure it is still right for you and your lifestyle.

