Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a degenerative autoimmune disease that affects the body’s nervous system, in particular the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by the immune system attacking and destroying myelin, which is the protective sheath covering the nerve cells. Once this sheath is destroyed, nerve impulses are slowed or stopped from the brain to the rest of the body. The process is irreversible and can occur in repeated episodes, causing inflammation anywhere along the spinal cord or in the brain. In severe cases of MS, some people lose their ability to walk or speak.

Specific causes for MS are still unknown, although researchers hypothesize the disorder may be attributed to a virus, genetic defect, or an environmental factor. Family history of the disease places an individual at a slightly higher risk of having MS. Women are more likely to have the disorder than men, with diagnosis usually occurring between ages 20-40.

MS may be suspected in people who experience functional decreases in at least two different parts of the central nervous system. MS can be difficult to diagnose, so the disease is often found by ruling out other nervous system disorders similar to MS. Relapsing-remitting MS is diagnosed in individuals who have at least two attacks, with a period of reduced or no symptoms in between. Neurological and optical tests are usually conducted by health care providers to diagnose MS, along with other testing options such as blood tests, spinal taps (lumbar punctures) and MRI techniques.

The symptoms of MS may vary depending upon the area that is inflamed or affected. Some of the common signs and symptoms of MS include: dizziness, fatigue, shock or tingling sensations throughout the back and head, memory loss, blurred or loss of vision, frequent need to urinate, painful muscle spasms, lack of coordination, problems walking, weakness or numbness in the legs or arms, and depression.

There is currently no cure for MS, but there are treatment options available to slow the attacks on myelin and prevent further development of the disease. These medications are long-term therapies that are commonly prescribed with steroids that help relieve the inflammation that occurs during myelin attacks.

Stat RX Pharmacy offers a range of prescription medications for multiple sclerosis. We currently dispense Avonex, Betaseron, Copaxone, Extavia, Mitoxantrone, and Rebif to provide our patients with a variety of treatment options, so they can find what works best for them. Contact us today for more information about our multiple sclerosis therapy options.

Stat RX Pharmacy carries a wide range of medications to serve clients with chronic, acute and complex healthcare conditions. Our mail and community pharmacies also carry hard to find and hard to handle medications that are typically more expensive than those carried by traditional pharmacies. We utilize special shipping and handling techniques in compliance with drug manufacturers’ specific requirements, including refrigeration and shipping with dry ice packs to ensure the quality of your medication. We understand that it’s not just your prescription you need stat, it’s your health, and we’re here for you.