Barb,

I haven't taken any DMD's (mostly due to drug allergies/sensitivities), and I honestly don't think I am worse for wear because of it. I have heard many stories of people who've tried every one of these meds, or have had a poor quality of life while they TRY desperately to adapt them, and then even when they find one that seems to work, still struggle as much as I have (or more!) with the disease in the longer run anyway.

The touted measure of efficacy on these drugs is relapse reduction . . . that HOPEFULLY leads to slower disease progression for some. Even from the trials, which was a very short-term measure of efficacy, they have not slowed the disease to anywhere near the degree that they apparently reduced relapses. There is a lot more to this disease then transient inflammed lesions and relapses . . .

I encourage people to try the mainstream options, ONLY because I suspect that each of these drugs has the potential to significantly help a small percentage of people who try them. On the other hand, there are many of us that the drugs don't seem to do anything for too . . . so I think you are actually in the majority, not minority.

There are very few people that I have heard of that have been using these drugs 10 - 15 yrs, and who are more stable or less disabled then Snoopy, Tom, myself and many others I know personally who have taken nothing all the way through. It is the luck of the draw with the meds, and with this disease.

Don't beat yourself up over this. You gave it your best shot with all that is available right now, and that is all you can do. For me, I'm hoping the LDN keeps me stable enough until something natural, or a less gross drug comes out . . . but if doesn't, I've STILL had 17 (mostly) reasonably good years, so far. I think that attitude has helped me too . . .

Cherie