Posted by Dan on March 01, 2002 at 22:56:19:
In Reply to: Avonex? posted by Valorie on January 29, 2002 at 23:01:25:
: I've been on the Swank diet since 1997 (except for a few "cheat times" and I know that it does help me feel better and have fewer symptoms. Prior to starting the diet, I took Betaseron for 6 months with very poor results. My current neuro just did another MRI and says I have increased lesion load and must recognize the progressive nature of MS and get on Avonex ASAP.
: Is Dr. Swank still opposed to the use of the ABC drugs? I have bad feelings about trying Avonex, but don't want to feel that I contributed to the progression of my disease. I haven't had a clinical exacerbation since I stopped working and started the diet, but have been up and down (down a lot in the last couple of years due to severe fatigue) and don't see any improvement in the fatigue area. I don't get much accomplished on any given day, which is very frustrating. My neuro says the more lesions I have, the more fatigue I will have. Is this true?
: Any ideas on how to improve energy and advice on how to deal with a formerly trusted neuro who's now REALLY pushing Avonex? Is trying Avonex a good idea--anyone taking it or tried it have any input?
: Thanks for your help!
: Valorie
I have followed the Swank diet to the tee since seeing Dr Swank 1994, a repeat MRI last year showed no change in lesions. My Nero recommended that I try Avenox, I have now been on it for 9 months, starting last January I have started walking and am now up to 2 miles 5 times a week, I feel my increased energy and lack of fatique are a result of taking the avonex. I am staying with the Swank diet as well as avonex therapy, I feel that both have done wonders for me.