264 The Nervous System
MEDICATIONS TO TREAT MULTIPLE SCLEROSISDrug or Medication Course of Action Concerns/Side Effects
interferon beta 1a (Rebif) genetically engineered proteins that direct may cause development of antibodies
interferon beta 1b (Betaseron) IMMUNE SYSTEMresponses against viruses NAUSEA, VOMITING, MUSCLEaches (flu-like
enhances natural immune function symptoms)
requires weekly intramuscular injections
glatiramer (Copaxone) block IMMUNE RESPONSEfrom attacking flushing, shortness of breath
myelin requires daily subcutaneous injection
alternative to beta INTERFERONS
corticosteroids (prednisone, suppress immune response HYPERTENSION
prednisolone, dexamethasone) reduce INFLAMMATION OSTEOPOROSIS
increased risk for INFECTION
selective serotonin reuptake stabilize emotions drowsiness, dry MOUTH, sexual side effects
inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants reduce DEPRESSION interactions with other medications
(fluoxetine, sertraline, cannot take with tricyclic antidepressants
venlafaxine, parocetine)
tricyclic antidepressants reduce PAIN drowsiness, dry mouth, sexual side effects
(amitriptyline, nortriptyline, reduce DEPRESSION interactions with other medications
imipramine, doxepin) cannot take with SSRI antidepressants
muscle relaxants (baclofen, reduce muscle spasms drowsiness
tizanidine, diazepam, muscle weakness
clonazepam)
BOTULINUM THERAPY spasticity that does not respond to other may cause weakness in injected muscles
treatment
temporarily paralyzes muscles into which
it is injected
ANTIVIRAL MEDICATIONS(acyclovir, improve immune system response to may slow attacks
Famvir, valacyclovir, amantadine) viruses
modafinil reduce drowsiness HEADACHE
difficulty sleeping
ANALGESIC MEDICATIONS relieve pain
(acetaminophen, NONSTEROIDAL reduce inflammation STOMACHirritation (NSAIDS)
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DRUGS[NSAIDS])
mitoxantrone (Novantrone) CHEMOTHERAPYagent intravenous injection every three months for
slows attacks on myelin up to three years
extends periods of remission nausea, vomiting
muscle aches
may increase risk for cardiovascular disease