I have never had an ounce of trouble with my Avonex, been on it since '97. I was never on partial dose, which by the way has to come from your doctor. Yes, at first I had some flu like symptoms but I don't anymore. I probably had then for about a month. I take two generic Aleves one hour before I take my shot. I do take it out of the refrigerator and it doesn't hurt as much. Sometimes it doesn't hurt at all. Good luck.