Monday, June 4, 2012

A Promising New Medication For Those Suffering From Multiple Sclerosis

Imagine waking up every morning to a struggle of trying to take the first steps of the day, as your limbs do not respond to your brains commands. Imagine the horrifying reality of regularly experiencing numbness, pain and/or tingling sensations in your limbs every moment of the day.

Sadly, over 55,000-75,000 Canadians live with these symptoms everyday as they struggle with the debilitating disease known as Multiple Sclerosis. In fact, Canada has one of the highest prevalence's of this disease in the world. Many individuals living with this disease will start presenting symptoms between the ages of 20-40.

Multiple Sclerosis attacks the body's Central Nervous System (The Brain and Spinal Cord). The disease targets myelin, the substance that wraps around the nerves of the body and has the responsibility of transmitting signals from the brain to other areas of the body in an efficient manner. When myelin is damaged, impulses take much longer to reach their intended locations.

Multiple Sclerosis effects every individual in different ways. Although, many individuals will lose their ability to walk as the disease progresses. Recently, the Food and Drug Administration approved a drug called Ampyra. Studies have found that this new drug has a promising potential to help Multiple Sclerosis suffers struggling with the ability to walk.

Ampyra targets nerve fibers to prevent the loss potassium ions. The increase in availability of potassium ions improves signal transmission. Studies have also found that this new medication improved mobility in the Multiple Sclerosis patients, by increasing leg muscle strength.

It is exciting that this new drug can offer promise and hope to those suffering from Multiple Sclerosis. On a personal note, my Grandfather has courageously battled this disease for twenty years. His determination to walk despite the huge effort it takes is inspiring. Lets hope that this new medication will improve mobility for those suffering from this disease so that they can continue to walk with courage.

1 comment:

  1. My husband was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and had a stroke a few years after his diagnosis. His  conditions left him with problems with swallowing and burning mouth syndrome ,blurred vision BUT his gait improved after starting the multivitamincare .org formulas which they prescribe , he started swinging his stiff arm again and could write legibly after the usage of their products . The chief of neurology at the multivitamin care always said his condition will reverse back to normal. I did not believe it until last month here after his new result. 

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