Some of disorders reasons are not clear and people who suffered these disorders feel themselves desperate for treatment. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disorders which causes are not clear. Although a lot of scientists are defined some of reasons genetic and environmental there is no clear treatment for Multiple Sclerosis (MS). But some medicines are very effective for treatment and slow the development of the disease such as lemtrada ( alemtuzumab ). We explain Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and biggest MS treatment options lemtrada (alemtuzumab ) usage and side effects.
Statistic About Multiple Sclerosis
Statistics related to MS:
- Prevalence: According to the World Health Organization MS affects around 2.5 million people worldwide. It is more prevalent in women than in men and first appears between the ages of 20 and 40.
- Rates: MS varies widely across different geographic regions. In North America and Europe, estimated to be around 5-10 cases per 100,000 people per year.
- Survival Rate: MS is not fatal but it can cause to severe disability and reduced life expectancy. But with modern treatments, many people with MS are able to live long and productive lives.
- Treatment: There are several treatment options available for MS, such as medications that can slow down the progression of the disease, as well as physical therapy and other supportive therapies to manage symptoms.
- Research: There is ongoing research aimed at better understanding the underlying causes of MS and developing more effective treatments. Some promising areas of research like as stem cell therapy and immunotherapy.
Tips For Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
If you have multiple sclerosis (MS), it is very helpful to work with a doctor for develop a treatment plan that meets your personal needs and to follow your treatment plan as directed. In addition there are several things you can do to help manage your MS and improve your quality of life:
- Get enough rest: Fatigue is a common symptom of MS and get enough rest to help manage this symptom. Try to get a good night’s sleep and take breaks during the day if you need to.
- Exercise regularly: Exercise can help improve your strength, mobility. Talk to your doctor about an exercise plan that is safe and appropriate for you.
- Eat a healthy diet: A healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables and other nutrients can help you manage your symptoms and maintain your health.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking enough fluids can help you manage fatigue and other symptoms of MS.
- Manage stress: Stress can exacerbate symptoms of MS, so it is recommended to find ways to manage stress, like as through relaxation techniques, therapy or support from friends and family.
- Stay informed: Stay up to date on the latest research and treatments for MS and be proactive in managing your own healthcare.
- Connect with others: Connecting with others who have MS or with support groups can be a great source of support and help you feel less isolated.
What is Lemtrada?
Lemtrada (alemtuzumab) is a prescription medication used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the central nervous system. It is a monoclonal antibody, a type of protein that is designed to target and attach to specific cells in the body.
Lemtrada is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion, meaning it is injected into a vein. It is usually given in two courses, one course per year, with each course consisting of five consecutive days of treatment.
How Does Lemtrada Work?
Lemtrada works by targeting and modifying the activity of the immune system. It works:
1. Targeting Immune Cells
Lemtrada is a monoclonal antibody that binds to a protein called CD52, found on the surface of certain immune cells, including T-cells and B-cells. These cells play a key role in the immune system’s attack on the nervous system in MS.
2. Depleting Problematic Immune Cells
Once Lemtrada binds to the CD52 protein, it triggers the destruction of these immune cells. This process is known as antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) and complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC). Depletion of these cells helps reduce the inflammatory attacks on the myelin sheath (the protective covering of nerves), which is characteristic of MS.
3. Immune System Reconstitution
After the targeted immune cells are destroyed, immune system gradually regenerates. New immune cells that develop are believed to be less likely to attack the nervous system. This “immune reset” is thought to be a key part of Lemtrada’s long-term effectiveness.
4. Reduction of Disease Activity
By reducing the number and activity of the immune cells responsible for damaging the central nervous system, Lemtrada helps:
- Decrease the frequency of relapses,
- Slow the progression of physical disability,
- Reduce the formation of new brain lesions detected on MRI scans.
5. Administration
Lemtrada is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion in two treatment courses:
- First course: Daily infusions for five consecutive days.
- Second course: Daily infusions for three consecutive days and 12 months after the first course.
Side Effects of Lemtrada (alemtuzumab)
Very Common Side Effects (≥10% of patients)
- Infusion-Related Reactions: Up to 92% of patients experience reactions like as rash, headache, fever and nausea during or shortly after infusion. Lemtrada HCP
- Infections: Upper respiratory tract infections (25%), urinary tract infections (19%) and herpes viral infections are prevelent. Drugs
- Thyroid Disorders: Thyroid gland disorders could be seen in about 13% of patients and cause to conditions like hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Drugs
- Rash and Skin Issues: Rash (53%), urticaria (16%) and pruritus (14%) are commonly reported. Drugs
- Headache: Reported in about 52% of patients. Drugs
- Fever (Pyrexia): Seen approximately 29% of patients. Drugs
Common Side Effects (1%–10% of patients)
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea (21%), diarrhea (12%), abdominal pain (10%) and vomiting (10%). Drugs
- Musculoskeletal Pain: Arthralgia (12%), pain in extremity (12%) and back pain (12%). Drugs
- Insomnia: Reported in 16% of patients. Drugs
- Dizziness: Seen in about 10% of patients. Drugs
Uncommon Side Effects (0.1%–1% of patients)
- Serious Infections: Such as pneumonia and listeriosis. PMC
- Autoimmune Conditions: Such as immune thrombocytopenia (2%) and glomerular nephropathies (0.3%). Cleveland Clinic
- Malignancies: Thyroid cancer (0.3%) and melanoma (0.3%). Cleveland Clinic
- Cardiovascular Issues: Like tachycardia and hypertension.
Rare but Serious Side Effects
- Stroke and Arterial Dissections: There have been rare but serious cases of stroke and tears in arteries supplying blood to the brain, occurring within days of Lemtrada administration. FDA
- Fatal Adverse Events: In rare instances, fatal outcomes have been reported due to complications such intracerebral hemorrhage, multiple organ failure and severe infections.
3 Advices for Lemtrada Users
Before Starting Lemtrada
- Educate Yourself: Understand the pros and cons of Lemtrada. Ask your doctor detailed questions to be sure it’s the right treatment for you.
- Complete Medical Tests: Be sure you’ve had the required blood work, thyroid function tests and infection screenings before starting treatment.
- Vaccination: Get necessary vaccines (e.g., zoster vaccine) well before treatment so your immune system may be suppressed during therapy.
During Treatment
- Be Careful About Infusion Reactions: Be aware that infusion reactions (rash, headache, fever) are common. Your doctor will usually monitor you during and after infusions.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water during and after infusions can help reduce side effects like headaches or fatigue.
- Report Symptoms Immediately: Inform your doctor immediately if you notice unusual symptoms, like severe bruising, abnormal bleeding or changes in mood.
- Prevent Infections: Practice good hygiene to minimize the risk of infections. You can use hand sanitizers, avoid crowded places and keep wounds clean.
After Treatment
- Regular Monitoring: Attend all follow-up appointments for blood tests and urine tests. Monitoring for autoimmune conditions and other complications may continue for several years after treatment.
- Thyroid Health: Watch for symptoms of thyroid issues, like as unexplained weight changes, fatigue or mood changes.
- Skin Check-ups: Schedule regular dermatology check-ups for signs of skin cancer, as Lemtrada is linked to a higher risk of melanoma.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Maintain a healthy diet, get regular exercise and prioritize sleep for health and recovery.
- Mental Health: Lemtrada treatment can be stressful. Get help from mental health professionals, friends or support groups if needed.
We wish healthy life to you.
