Week 32

Last week I gave you my opinions on the drug BG12, shortly before I did a couple of minutes research and discovered I was talking out of my backside. This time I have made an effort and got my facts right about the POSSIBLE side effects of taking Gilenya before I preach to you.

The most common side effects during the trials of Gilenya were headache, influenza, diarrhoea, back pain, abnormal liver tests and cough. I put the word 'possible' in capital letters in the last paragraph because some, none even are guaranteed. If you've read my blog more than once (doubtful), you will know that I've had no side effects whatsoever - except maybe one, flushing. Hang on, that's not on the list, you're thinking? It isn't, but I copied and pasted the above list from the National MS Society website. I read about flushing elsewhere. I do seem more heat sensitive of late, which means a slight rise in temperature has me whipping off layers of clothes. I'm not great in the heat, post diagnosis, but I do feel like the sensitivity has increased. Lets see how I cope with the long, hot British summer this year!!!!!

Note to reader: I express sarcasm through exclamation marks.

Gilenya may cause liver problems. Your MS specialist nurse will do a blood test to check your liver functions before starting treatment. I had one on the day of my first dose and another one after Three months. Once you are on treatment, they want you to tell them if you have any issues with nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite, unusual tireness, dark urine or a yellowish tint to your skin or the whites of your eyes. As you know, I've had none of these side effects. That looks a lengthy list, but read the list of possible side effects on a packet of paracetamol, they list drowsyness as well as insomnia, or diarrhoea as well as constipation, so don't let it put you off the treatment, if it is something you're considering.

Like I've already said, I haven't noticed any of the side effects I've mentioned in this blog (except possibly flushing).

Before I go, I haven't fallen over once this month and we're almost 3 weeks into April! I must be due a double fall this weekend. Lets see how I go...

I apologise if this blog comes across as sensible and informative. I'll be back to my usual puerile nonsense next week.

Happy reading,

Dan