Scott Passman
I have secondary progressive MS. As you probably know, there is no cure for this disease. Has your friend tried any of the ABC drugss (Avonex, Betasaron and Copaxone)? For some people, Copaxone seems to help to slow the progression of the disease. A new form of treatment involves using the chemotherapy drug Novantrone. The drug is administered via iv. A "treatment" is given once every three months for a maximum of no more than 12 treatments (it is extremely potent and may cause cardiac damage). It has been shown to at least slow the progression of MS for those people who progressive forms of the disease. There are some possible side effects such as hair loss, nausea and infection. I have had two treatments with very few side effects and I seem to be progressing at a much slower rate. I would like to emphasize that your friend seek the advice of Neurologist who specializes in the treatment of MS. You can get this information from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (www.nmss.org). Please contact me at my email address if you have any questions. Best of luck to you and your friend.