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Myths and Facts of Multiple Sclerosis

Don't believe everything you hear about multiple sclerosis (MS).

There are a lot of misconceptions about MS. Take a look at this list of 10 myths about MS and see if you've heard any of them before—then take a little time to get the real story in the fact section included below each myth.

MYTH # 1: All MS treatments are the same

The fact is, although MS therapies may seem similar, there are some important differences you should be aware of.

The most common treatment options are the beta interferons (BETASERON (interferon beta-1b), Rebif^®, and Avonex^®) and glatiramer acetate (Copaxone^®). There are important distinctions among them, such as:

• The different indications^1-4
• The side effect profiles^1-4
• How often they are injected^1-4
• The size of the needle used to inject^1-4
• Storage requirements^1-4
• The support available

BETASERON was the first FDA-approved high-dose, high-frequency interferon beta for use at the first signs suggestive of MS and is shown to delay the progression of clinically definite MS (CDMS) when used from the first event suggestive of MS.²

MYTH # 2: Side effects are not manageable

The fact is, some side effects with therapies like BETASERON may be manageable with the right techniques. The most commonly reported adverse reactions are lymphopenia (low numbers of a certain kind of white blood cell), injection site reaction, asthenia (general weakness), flu-like symptom complex (fever, chills, sweating, muscle aches, and tiredness), headache, and pain.

Over the years, we've learned that there are steps you can take to help reduce common side effects. For example, gradually increasing the dose (called titration) can help you adjust to therapy.² And many people find over-the-counter pain relievers help lessen flu-like symptoms.² Your healthcare team and BETA Nurse can suggest other ways to help manage side effects you may have.

It helps that all people taking BETASERON have access to BETA Nurses—any time, day or night. These MS-trained nurses even provide one-on-one injection training in your home* or in your healthcare team's office.

Please see the Important Safety Information.

MYTH # 3: A few relapses per year is a normal part of MS

The fact is, if you're having several relapses a year, your current treatment might not be working for you. And if that's the case, talk to your healthcare team. Many people living with MS have successfully changed therapies with positive results.

MYTH # 4: I'm already on treatment—I should just stay with it

The fact is, we learn more about MS therapies every day. The treatment you began with may not be the right choice for you now. If you are having frequent relapses, you should speak to your healthcare professional about what treatment is right for you.

MYTH # 5: I feel fine, so there's no reason to start MS treatment

The fact is, MS can be deceiving. Not long ago, delaying therapy was considered acceptable by many experts—but now we know that damage can happen very early. MS doesn't wait, and neither should you.

In a study, 85% of people who had one episode suggestive of MS developed McDonald MS within 2 years when they were left untreated.⁵ So while you may not feel symptoms, damage may be irreversible. Remember, being free of symptoms doesn't mean you're free of MS. Every moment you delay effective treatment may be a moment you never get back.

MYTH # 6: MS affects everyone the same way, so you should treat it the same way, too

The fact is, MS is unpredictable. After you've had a first MS event, there is no way to tell when relapses might occur or how severe the effects might be.

While scientists continue to seek answers, some studies suggest the importance of starting treatment as soon as possible.^5,6

Not every person living with MS is the same and there are important differences between MS treatments (see Myth #1). Some treatments will fit into your life better than others, and it's worth taking some time to look closely at all of them.

MYTH # 7: I should deal with MS alone

The fact is, a good support system can make a real difference when you're dealing with MS. People like your healthcare team, family, and friends are your important first line of support.

Another valuable source of support is the BETAPLUS Peer Mentor Program. The Peer Mentors are people who are currently taking BETASERON and can share with you their own experiences with MS and how they manage. Speaking with someone else who truly understands what you are going through can really help. Peer Mentors are available to you by visiting www.betaseron.com/mentor or calling 1-800-788-1467.

MYTH # 8: There are no options available to manage pain associated with injections

The fact is, pain may be manageable for some people. For example, patients taking BETASERON should rotate their injection sites, and/or take an over-the-counter pain reliever prior to injection. Speak to your healthcare professional for tips on how to manage your pain associated with the injection.

MYTH # 9: All MS support programs are the same

The fact is, programs differ in the level of support they offer. The BETAPLUS^® program, brought to you by Bayer, is the only support program that assigns an MS-trained Nurse to every person who is taking BETASERON. This means you'll have access to an MS-trained nurse any time, day or night, including weekends and holidays.

From one-on-one injection training in your home* or healthcare team's office, to phone calls just to check in, your BETA Nurse will always be there for you. That's part of the Bayer pledge to every person taking BETASERON, and a big reason why physicians rated BETAPLUS the best MS support program for affordable therapy, copay assistance, and nurse access and training.**

BETAPLUS also offers you a personal Peer Mentor for guidance and support, and Access Specialists to help with insurance issues.

MYTH # 10: There are MS therapies without side effects

The fact is, every MS therapy has some side effects. Knowing more about each MS therapy can help you choose the one that's right for you.

Injection site reactions, such as redness or swelling, can usually improve over time, while others require immediate attention. Injection site reactions are a common side effect of BETASERON. Ways to manage them include rotating your injection site and/or take over-the-counter pain relievers. Talk to your healthcare team before you start therapy.

Flu-like symptoms are another type of side effect associated with MS therapy. Most patients who take BETASERON have flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, sweating, muscle aches and tiredness). For many, these symptoms may lessen or go away over time⁷. The rate of flu-like symptom complex (at least two of the following symptoms: fever, chills, myalgia, malaise, sweating) was approximately 57% in the four BETASERON clinical trials. The incidence decreased over time, with only 10% of patients reporting flu-like symptom complex at the end of the studies. ² Gradual dose titration and use of analgesics during treatment initiation may help reduce flu-like symptoms. That's important because with MS, you need a therapy to start with and stay with over the long term.

Please see the Important Safety Information.

• Symptoms & Diagnosis
• Types of MS
• Myths & Facts
• Talking to Your Doctor
• MS Resources
• Safety Information

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