Multiple Sclerosis
"I have had MS since 1996 - diagnosed at the age of 49. My MS is very mild compared to my older sister who was diagnosed around 1970 and needs assistance to walk. I have been on Betaseron for 14 years and other than initial flu-like symptoms, have tolerated it very well. However, the key to avoiding the symptoms is to keep Tylenol or some other pain relief medication in my system. In 14 years, I have only had 3 relapses, and Betaseron has slowed the progression of my MS and lessened the severity of relapses. The one side effect I am experiencing is injection site reactions that leave the area red, sore and over time have caused muscle atrophy in my arms and buttocks. Even so, I would still recommend Betaseron to anyone with relapsing-remitting MS."