Has anyone else sideeffects from Avonex?

Question

I have multiple sclerosis and have just started the drug Avonex. It makes me feel like I have a really bad cold every night I take it. Anyone else that has had those side effects?

Answer 1

While I don't take Avonex (I take Copaxone), your reaction is perfectly normal. You should feel like you've got the flu for a while after you take it.

Some suggestions:

1. Take it at night, before you go to bed. That way, you can sleep through most of the symptoms.

2. Take Tylenol about 30 minutes before you take your shot. This will help alleviate your symptoms.

You should start to see the symptoms subside after about 6 months, as your body adjusts to the new medicine.

Good luck!