Hello everyone.

I need some help. I'm going to revisit the subject of taking Lemtrada with my neuro. He suggested I go on it as a first treatment at my last appt, but due to the cost (we don't have any benefits), I declined. I'm on Betaseron now since our provincial drug plan covers it.

My progression has been quite rapid and we have decided to talk to the neuro about Lemtrada again, weigh the possible benefits with the possible risks (I know there are many), and we can come up with the money if we can be convinced that it's the best thing for me.

However, I'd *really* like to get in touch with someone (or some people) who've taken Lemtrada, or who are currently taking it, even those who are about to take it. I am in Canada, it's been out here for about a year from what I understand. I know it just got FDA approval in Nov so finding an American on it will likely not be possible. I will speak with my neuro and ask if he can get someone they have on it to email me. I think the UK has had it being used the longest... can anyone here help me find someone? I'd REALLY appreciate it. Thanks everyone.

Gosh I really thought I had posted on this thread. I must have shut down before submitting.

I too am very interested in any information about Lemtrada - my doctor wants me off Tysabri, I don't like the sound of any of the oral drugs and having had 8 years of injecting myself with Beta I don't want to go down that road again.

I can see couple of potential problems with it though. Lemtrada is a monoclonal antibody, like Tysabri (Alemtuzumab/Natalizumab) - so if you are (like me) JCV+, the risk of PML may be an issue, although you only have Lemtrada twice, over two years, as opposed to monthly with Ty your exposure may be limited. There are also other documented auto-immune issues with Lemtrada such as thyroid disturbances and blood (immune thrombocytopenia - low platelets).

I need to discuss it with my Neuro when I see him in February.

Regards

Thanks for replying Lynn!

I am seeing my neuro tomorrow to discuss it (I also want to talk about Tysabri). I'll let you know what he says and what I decide to do. Anyone have an extra 95,000$ lying around they want to give me to pay for it? lol

Naaaaah...no good for the money, but interested in the opinion. Good luck - I am really interested in the info.

Let me know how you go.