Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
Multiple Sclerosis Month
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is caused by your immune system attacking the myelin surrounding the nerves in your brain. It is thought that specific types of B cells and T cells in your body are drivers of the attack. B cells play a central role in MS development as they activate the immune system in multiple ways, which includes recruiting T cells to attack neurons. In MS, infection-fighting white blood cells cause inflammation in the brain and spinal cord, damaging the myelin sheath that normally protects our nerve cells. When this damage occurs, the nerves cannot function properly, and the symptoms of MS occur. MS can affect almost anyone, and it is a long-term condition.
Until recently, scientists focused on T cells as a primary target in treating MS. Many scientists now agree that B cells and T cells play essential roles.
Over fifteen medications, often called disease-modifying agents, have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in MS. Generally, all these medications aim to reduce the frequency of relapse, the activity seen on MRI scans, and disease progression. Each medication has its own side effects and risks, and how patients respond to each varies greatly.
Treatment for MS via infusions have higher bioavailability since it mixes directly into your bloodstream.There are currently three infusions that MS experts highly recommend.
Brumivi
As of January 2023, the FDA has approved Briumvi for treating relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS), including clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting disease, and active secondary progressive disease, in adults. Brumvi (Ublituximab-xiiy) is the first anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody approved for individuals with RMS that can be administered as a 1-hour intravenous (IV) infusion after the starting dose. The starting dose consists of 150 mg of Brumvi administered in 4 hours, followed by an infusion of 450 mg administered in 1 hour on day 15. Afterward, the drug is administered in the 450-mg dosage in 1 hour every 24 weeks.
Ocrevus
Ocrevus is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with Primary Progressive MS (PPMS) and relapsing forms of MS, including clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting disease, and active secondary progressive disease. Ocrevus is a twice-yearly infusion. The first dose will be split into two treatments for a total of three infusions for the first year. Ocrevus works by targeting specific types of B cells. As with any treatment, it’s essential to talk with your doctor to determine if Ocrevus is right for you.
Tysabri
Tysabri is a prescription medicine used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), to include clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting disease, and active secondary progressive disease.
In a 2-year study of 627 people treated with Tysabri versus 315 people taking placebo, Tysabri was significantly more effective in slowing the progression of physical disability evaluated over a period of twelve weeks, reducing the formation of new active brain lesions and reducing the number of relapses.
Sage Infusion Can Help
At Sage Infusion, we provide expert patient-centered infusion care in a contemporary boutique environment. Sage Infusion eases your medical burden by handling the care coordination process, including insurance authorization and patient progress updates. Our flexible scheduling meets our patient’s needs with extended hours. Day, night, and weekend appointments are available. Our physician assistants and nurse practitioners follow the National Infusion Center Association guidelines and our proprietary clinical protocols. Sage Infusion offers a variety of comforting amenities, and patients can choose to receive treatment in the open lounge or private room.
With locations in Fort Myers, Clearwater, Orlando, Sarasota, Tampa, and The Villages, Sage Infusion offers the best infusion and administration facilities in the Sunshine State. At Sage Infusion, we’ve reimagined patient care. From a quick start, to upfront pricing and financial assistance, to compassionate care by our clinical experts in a serene environment, you will experience infusion therapy like never before. Sage Infusion accepts most insurance providers and will complete your prior authorization process so you can focus on getting better.
(239) 533-5962 | sageinfusion.com
8880 Gladiolus Drive, Suite C-200
Fort Myers, FL 33908
