Multiple Sclerosis Treatments

Medications

Medications may include:

• Corticosteroids—to reduce nerve tissue inflammation and shorten MS flare-ups
• Interferon beta (a protein that naturally occurs in the body)—used to suppress the immune system
• Glatiramer acetate —to help prevent MS relapses by modifying the function of the immune system
• Other immunosuppressive drugs, such as:
  • Mitoxantrone
  • Azathioprine
  • Methotrexate
• Intravenous immunoglobulin
• Natalizumab —for relapsing MS (This medication is under a mandatory registration program.)
• Muscle relaxants—to treat muscle spasms or stiffness
• Other drugs to treat:
  • Fatigue
  • Depression
  • Pain
  • Bladder or bowel problems

Physical Therapies and Lifestyle Changes

Therapies and changes may include:

• Regular moderate exercise with your doctor's permission (Swimming is especially beneficial.)
• Physical therapy to help maintain muscle strength and tone, dexterity, and walking ability
• Massage
• High fiber diet to prevent constipation
• Stress reduction techniques

Psychological Therapies

Individual or group therapy will help you learn coping strategies for physical symptoms and emotional stress.