Making the right choice

Deciding to start disease-modifying therapy is an important step in taking control of MS. Because these medications are taken over a long period of time, it’s important to understand the role of disease-modifying therapy in your overall MS treatment plan.

Be prepared when you meet with your neurologist, so that you are aware of the benefits and the obstacles that can most often interfere with your treatment plan.

You may want to ask your neurologist the following questions:

How will this medication help control my MS symptoms?
Will this treatment alter the natural course of the disease?
Will this medication help me maintain my physical and cognitive abilities? (i.e., delay the progression of disability)
How long will I have to take it for?
How is it administered? Is an autoinjector available for this medication?
How difficult are the injections? Will I be able to do this in the comfort of my own home?
What is the injection schedule for this medication?
How often will I have to take it?
What results can I expect from this treatment?
How quickly will I see those results?
What side effects could I experience?
What do I do if I have side effects?
How will the medication be monitored?
How safe is this medication?
Are there any risks involved in taking it?
Where can I find more information about this treatment?

To help you talk to your neurologist about your treatment options, use one of the following Doctor Discussion Guides. Simply print the page, fill it out and bring it to your neurologist's visit.

Doctor Discussion Guide: newly diagnosed MS or possible MS

Doctor Discussion Guide: currently or previously treated MS