I Want Ocrevus!

 

 

We have been hearing about this new MS medication in the works for several years.

And finally this week, the FDA granted approval for Ocrevus (short for ocrelizumab).

Now what?

All the high-fives surround Ocrevus because it is the first & only approved treatment for progressive forms of multiple sclerosis.

 

(That’s my kind of MS–Yippee!)

And I am giving it serious consideration.  

Here’s why…

 

I was baptized into the world of MS after my 1st plunge into an MRI in September of 1996.

Several years of Avonex followed…as well as a downward progression.

A switch to Copaxone yielded much the same results.

Rebif too, thus our relationship soured and we parted ways in 2009.

 

So for eight years I have been treatment free.

Have I progressed?  Oh you bet.  (In 2009, my 25ft timed walk was nine seconds.  Today it is a glacerial 18 seconds).

Was it smart to go treatment free?  Who knows.

My MS was progressing on meds as it has while off them.

 

Which brings me back to Ocrevus.

Should I?  Will you?

 

My doctor says she has a list of 60-70 patients who could benefit with Ocrevus (myself included).

And she is one of about 15-20 doctors at this MS clinic!  So I think of the many docs & MS clinics around the world…and how many MSers will be clamouring to be put on the business end of an Ocrevus infusion.

 

I envision riots.

Overturned scooters.

Burning alcohol swabs.

How will MS clinics bear the demand for Ocrevus?

Sorry, I do apologize as I get carried away sometimes.

 

Seriously though, I am thinking long & hard about saying yes.

Even my son says “Why wouldn’t you?”

It’s just difficult to admit defeat…believing I can beat MS with a healthy lifestyle only.  

I recall those many days following Avonex shots feeling like sh**, thinking how I am wasting precious time and energy being dozy, achy & lethargic.

I can’t stand side-effects, which is good news for Ocrevus as it is reported to have very few.

 

 

My doctor (and maybe yours too) has been quick to remind me this isn’t a cure.  And Ocrevus doesn’t replace myelin.

On all counts though, things look promising.

Maybe Ocrevus is the “game-changer” MS researchers have long talked about.

What are your thoughts?

Are you happy with your current DMT?

Will you be considering Ocrevus?  Have any doubts?

It can be a big deal switching meds…or in my case, going back on meds.

Whatever you choose, you must believe.  Giving it time & 100 percent.

It’s all we can do.  Decisions await.

Keep moving, my friend.