I took my first injection of Avonex last Friday and I have noticed a big increase in joint pain. Mostly in my left hand.

I have been told the joint pain can be MS related. I have had a couple of new MS symptoms in the past few days.

Does anyone know if Avonex can cause joint pain? Or is it more likely related to MS?

Thanks!


LA

Aha!! Lookee here! In black and white...

http://www.drugs.com/cons/avonex.html

I learned something by looking at this. Rebif has the extra added benefit of being a treatment for genital warts!

Ok, I was too lazy to look it up. I have a whole bag of reading materials the doctor gave me but I have not worked up the courage to read it!

Oh, well, how lovely about the Rebif.....makes ya want to run out and get a script right away!!!!

The side effects are scary. That is why I tend to be avoiding reading too much!

LA

"Arthralgia (from Greek arthro-, joint + -algos, pain) literally means joint pain; [1][2] it is a symptom of injury, infection, illnesses -- in particular arthritis-- or an allergic reaction to medication."

Since Avonex has this as a side-effect, that is most likely the cause. From what I've heard, many of the side-effects from interferons will let up in time for most people.

I had an allergic reaction to Tetracycline when I tried it, and ALL my joints hurt and became stiff. I was taken off that medication and told it was a very rare allergic reaction.

Just something to keep in mind . . .

Cherie

Hi Cherie,
Thank you. I always learn a lot when reading your posts. I am hoping the effects I am feeling from the Avonex does let up.. i am hoping to stay on the injections.

LA

Just checking my signature...............

Thanks.

I don't really know the exact protocol for premedicating with Tylenol, taking the Avonex just before you go to sleep, etc. . . . but someone has told you about that, right?

Cherie

Yes, the Avonex rep and a few cyber friends have been VERY helpful.
I will take my second injection this evening. I hate taking it on Friday night because we are so busy on the weekend, but that is the only time I have someone around here to help with the kids.
I had my t-spine MRI this morning. So hopefully that will be it on the MRI's for a while. That was my 4th MRI since July. It does not get any easier for me.
I don't need to take anything to keep my calm, but I am getting close to it. Today the tech had a hard time finding my vien and that hurt. So,,,,off to take a nap!