While multiple sclerosis has no cure, many treatments are available that can slow the disease’s progression, control flare-ups, and manage symptoms. Some treatments may work well for you, but others may not. If you’re not satisfied with your current treatment, you might want to try something else.
There are many reasons to consider changing treatments. Your current medication might have side effects that bother you, or it may no longer seem to be as effective as it was. You might be having challenges taking your medication, such as missing doses or struggling with the injection process.
A variety of treatment options are available for MS. If you’re unhappy with your current treatment plan, here are five steps you can take to change it.
You might want to switch treatments because you’re not sure if the medication you’re taking is effective. Ask your doctor how you can tell if your medication is effective. Don’t stop taking your medication or change your dose without talking to your doctor first.
Medication can be working properly even if your symptoms seem to be the same. This is because the medication is preventing new symptoms from developing as it controls inflammation. It may be that your current symptoms simply aren’t reversible, and your treatment is aimed instead at preventing your condition from progressing.
Sometimes it’s not the medication that needs changing but the dose. Ask your doctor if your current dose should be increased. Also make sure that you’ve been taking your medication as prescribed.
If you still think that your current treatment isn’t working, make sure that you’ve given it enough time. Medication for MS can take between 6 to 12 months to take effect. If you’ve been on your current treatment for less time, your doctor may recommend that you wait before considering a change.