I have been on BG12 since about July of 2007. I was a memember of Phase II, III, and IV. I initially had the flushing, for about a month after I started. Actually, the flushing is what convinced me that I originally did not have a placebo (chances of getting the drug were 2/4, copaxone 1/4, placebo 1/4). This drug has truly changed my life. I used to have a flare-up every two years. Since I have been on this, not one coming up on 6 years.
Knock on wood. My health has improved, I don't usually get the common colds, flus, etc. A heck of a lot better than when I used to get it twice, once on the front end, and then a second time after it ran through my wife and kids. In the beginning I heard stories from from members that knew people on Phase I, and the results were tremendous (people who were wheelchair or bed bound being able to live normal lives). I was really excited when I got that initial flushing. I still get the flushing once in a while now, but maybe once every two or three months for about 45 minutes.

I haven't had any issues with upset stomach or anything like that, but usually it just seems better to take at meals (the study has 3 doses a day, so it is also a helpful reminder to stay on schedule). I would highly recommend this medication for anybody that wants to stop with the shots....I did Betaseron from 1999-2001, couldn't keep it going when I had twins, and wasn't on anything from 2001-2007. If any of you have questions about the pills, side effects, or anything let me know, and I will do my best to help you out! Good luck! The emotional/mental aspect of not taking the shots seemed to have a huge benefit for me personally!