New Treatments?

Q	I have PPMS since 95 but was not diagnosed till 2000. I have been on Flexoril and Amantadine. I am currently taking Permax and occasionally Zanaflex ( it makes me very drowsy at 1/4 of a tab). Is there any other treatment available at this time?
A	There are no proven treatments to stop the progression in primary progressive MS. This may change as new therapies are studied. However, there are therapies that can help you to live with this condition and minimize symptoms. Moderate exercise and stretching are helpful. Physiotherapy and energy conservation techniques can also help. Amantadine sometimes helps MS fatigue. Alertec (modafinil) is an alternative. It sounds as though Zanaflex has increased fatigue, so you must decide whether the benefit for spasticity is worth the effect on fatigue. Spasticity (stiffness and spasms) may improve with stretching, baclofen, Zanaflex, dantrium, or tranquilizers known as benzodiazepines, but be careful that these drugs do not aggravate fatigue or weakness. Flexeril is often helpful for acute causes of muscle spasm, but seldom helpful for a longterm problem such as MS spasticity. Permax is usually used for restless legs. Sinemet, Mirapex, clonazepam and amitriptyline are alternatives that sometimes help. Dr. J. E. Paulseth

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