COPAXONE(R) May Have Ability to Protect Against Axonal Injury Over the Long-Term in Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis

Additional Long-Term Efficacy in Both Clinical and MRI Parameters Also Highlighted at European Neurological Society Meeting

By: Marketwire . - June 30, 2009

KANSAS CITY, MO -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 06/30/05 -- New data presented at the European Neurological Society Meeting (ENS) demonstrated key clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) effects of COPAXONE® (glatiramer acetate injection) in the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Results highlighted sustained beneficial effects on cerebral axonal injury and the value of starting COPAXONE® treatment early to slow the accumulation of long-term disability as measured by the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS).

MRS results suggest beneficial effect of COPAXONE® on cerebral axonal injury

Brain n-acetylaspartate (NAA) levels, a marker of neuronal integrity and function, are measured by magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). An increase in brain NAA levels relative to creatinine (NAA/Cr ratios) indicates a recovery of injured nerve cells or neurons in the brain. Preventing or minimizing damage to nerve cells is critical in reducing long-term disability in multiple sclerosis.

Click here to continue


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Have something to share with others? If so, please use the post comment link found below. Your name and email address would be appreciated but is not necessary unless you want a response from others. Thank You
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Woman with MS wins "right to die" case in the UK

Pick which story you want to read:

MS Sufferer Purdy Wins Bid for U.K Suicide-Law Review (Update1) Bloomberg Thu, 30 Jul 2009 10:05 AM PDT July 30 (Bloomberg) -- A British woman suffering from multiple sclerosis won her bid to have the laws governing assisted dying clarified.

Woman wins 'right-to-die' test case Liverpool Echo Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:54 AM PDT Multiple sclerosis sufferer Debbie Purdy has won a landmark appeal to the highest court in the land in her battle to clarify the law on assisted suicide.

Briton wins 'landmark' ruling for assisted suicide: lawyers AFP via Yahoo! News Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:43 AM PDT A British multiple sclerosis sufferer won a "landmark victory" Thursday in her long-running legal battle to clarify the law on assisted suicides, her lawyers said.

MS sufferer wins 'landmark' ruling for assisted suicide AFP via Yahoo! News Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:42 AM PDT A multiple sclerosis sufferer won a "landmark victory" Thursday in her long-running legal battle to clarify the law on assisted suicides, her lawyers said.

British MS sufferer in landmark legal victory on assisted suicide EARTHtimes.org Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:40 AM PDT London - A British woman suffering from multiple sclerosis (MS) Thursday won a landmark legal victory in her battle to clarify the law on assisted suicide. Britain's Law Lords, the country's highest court, backed Debbie Purdy's request for a policy s...

I hope there will be comments left WITH this blog entry. If reading this on Facebook, please go back this blog posting to leave comments. - thank you


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Improved Way to Identify 'Benign' MS Suggested

By John Gever, Senior Editor, MedPage Today
Published: July 29, 2009
Reviewed by Zalman S. Agus, MD; Emeritus Professor
University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine.

WHEELING, W.Va., July 29 -- Regular neurocognitive screening and MRI scans may be able to spot patients with so-called benign multiple sclerosis who will soon develop significant disabilities, researchers said.

Among 63 patients diagnosed with benign MS at baseline, 29% developed disabling symptoms during mean follow-up of five years, reported Maria Pia Amato, MD, of the University of Florence, Italy, and colleagues online in Neurology.

They found that T1-weighted brain lesion volume detected on MRI scans, the number of neurocognitive tests failed at baseline, and male gender, were each significantly predictive of disease progression.

A model combining all three predictors distinguished those who progressed with an accuracy of 82%, the researchers reported.

Read More, by clicking here

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Have something to share with others? If so, please use the post comment link found below. Your name and email address would be appreciated but is not necessary unless you want a response from others. Thank You
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The Swank Low-Fat Diet for the Treatment of MS

Did you know that Dr. Swank lived to Ninety-Nine years of age?

We are about to show you a sensible plan for balanced nutrition developed over a 50-year period of research with hundreds of MS patients. After reading the following, you may wish to print out our Quick Reference and Diet Recording Form to keep handy as you learn the diet. To learn even more, read Dr. Swank's groundbreaking book.

Clicking here, will bring you to the Swank Diet webpage where you can read this in-depth description of the Swank Diet.
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Read of other MS Diets and Nutrition by Clicking Here.
Review the various articles that open within our Library of MS Archives

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Leaving comments is a great way to get others involved with the topic. Please feel free to leave your comment(s) for any of the postings found on this blog.

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Pioneering Research by Dr. Nick Hall on Stress, Emotions, Immunity and Your health -

DR. NICK HALL, Ph.D., Hon. M.D., is an internationally recognized psycho-neuro-immunologist who has conducted pioneering research concerning the interrelationships between the emotions and health. Dr. Hall's company is based in Tampa, FL at Saddlebrook Resort.

Click on each of these WMV links to view:

[1] Mind-Body Connection [Length: 0:33" - 1.9 MB]
[2] Emotions and Immunity [Length: 0:42" - 2.5 MB]
[3] Stress and Burnout Prevention [Length: 0:45"- 2.64 MB]

Stay up-to-date with MS Related News, when registered at: MS Views and News: http//www.msviewsandnews.org


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Multiple Sclerosis South African Support Group

For those in South Africa, I wanted to let you know of a support group that has many resources available


Click here: http://www.multiplesclerosis.co.za

While visiting their website, see their links section to view other organizations that they are linking with, to share knowledge for those affected by MS


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Does Eating Animal Brains Cause Multiple Sclerosis?

Tuesday July 28, 2009

A case-control study to investigate possible risk factors for MS in Brazilian people found that individuals who had consumed animal brains were 3.4 times more likely to have MS than people who had never eaten animal brains.

Honestly, I do not know what is going on here, but it is an interesting question to ponder. Interestingly, a Mexican study did not find an association between eating cow or pig brains and MS risk.

Several things could be happening here to explain the differences between Mexicans and Brazilians, as well as what is happening in general:

>>>>>> CLICK to continue reading

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Tremors and Multiple Sclerosis

There are several types of tremor:

• Intention tremor—generally is greatest during physical movement; there is no shaking when a person is at rest. The tremor develops and becomes more pronounced as the person tries to grasp or reach for something, or move a hand or foot to a precise spot. This is the most common and generally most disabling form of tremor that occurs in people with MS.
• Postural tremor—generally is greatest when a limb or the whole body is being supported against gravity. For example, a person who has a postural tremor will shake while sitting or standing, but not while lying down.
• Resting tremor—generally is greatest when the body part is at rest and is diminished with movement. More typical of Parkinson's disease than MS.
• Nystagmus—produces jumpy eye movements.

Tremor occurs because there are plaques—damaged areas—along the complex nerve pathways that are responsible for coordination of movements. People with MS who have tremors may also have associated symptoms such as difficulty in speaking (dysarthria) or difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia)—activities that are governed by many of the same pathways involved in coordinating movement.

Tremor is One of the Most Difficult MS Symptoms to Treat

Tremor is considered by physicians and other health professionals to be one of the most difficult symptoms to treat. To date, there have been no reports of consistently effective drugs for tremor. Varying degrees of success have been reported with agents such as: the anti-tuberculosis agent, isoniazid (INH); the antihistimines Atarax® and Vistaril® (hydroxyzine); the beta-blocker Inderal® (propranolol); the anticonvulsive medication Mysoline® (primidone); a diuretic Diamox® (acetazolamide); and anti-anxiety drugs Buspar® (buspirone) and Klonopin® (clonazepam).

Weights and other devices can also be attached to a limb to inhibit or compensate for tremors. An occupational therapist is the health professional who can best advise about assistive devices to aid in the management of tremor.

More recently, deep brain stimulation (using electrodes implanted surgically into various brain areas) has been shown to be effective for the management of tremor in Parkinson's disease. This has also been tried in MS patients (with varying degrees of success) although, at the moment, this therapeutic approach should be regarded as experimental.

Tremor can have significant emotional and social impact, especially when people choose to keep to themselves rather than be embarrassed by tremor. Isolation can lead to depression and further psychological problems. A psychologist, social worker, or counselor may be able to help a person with MS deal with these issues and become more comfortable in public.

Controversy continues over the role of alcohol or tetrahydro-cannabinol (THC), the active ingredient in marijuana, in treating tremor. Only small studies have been done, characterized by conflicting results. Marijuana remains a controlled substance under current policies of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency.

Source for this article: National MS Society

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Information provided by Stuart Schlossman, RRMS
of MS Views and News. Register at our site, to receive our weekly published e-newsletter.

Please Donate to MS Views and News

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MS Action ALERT - Help the National MS Society reach our goal of 150 co-sponsors on H.R. 1362

Ask your Representative to Co-sponsor H.R. 1362	Take Action!
Help the National MS Society reach our goal of 150 co-sponsors on H.R. 1362 before the Congressional August recess begins this Friday! Thanks to the hard work of MS and Parkinson's activists across the country, we have secured 120 co-sponsors to the National MS and Parkinson's Disease Registries Act (H.R. 1362). Click here to e-mail your Representative and ask them to co-sponsor H.R. 1362. The National MS and Parkinson's Disease Registries Act (H.R. 1362), supported by our Congressional MS Caucus and the Bicameral Congressional Caucus on Parkinson's Disease, would for the first time establish a national coordinated system to collect and analyze data on multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and other neurological diseases and disorders. The last national study on incidence and prevalence rates on MS was conducted in 1975 - a lot has changed in 34 years. These registries will help determine incidence and prevalence rates and lay a foundation for better evaluating and understanding MS issues such as geographic clusters, variance in gender ratio, changes in health care practices, and changes in disease burden. Take action today to help us reach our goal of 150 co-sponsors on H.R. 1362 before August recess begins this Friday. Meeting this advocacy challenge helps express to House leadership that H.R. 1362 continues to gain support, and we are not losing momentum. It is only with your advocacy that we will continue building support for a national MS registry. Thank you. To see a current list of co-sponsors, click here.

To keep future MS activism messages out of your junk folder, add the following address to your contacts or safe sender list: MSActionNetwork@nmss.org

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A Bio of the Creator of "MS MuSings"

www.msmusings.com
The Bio of: Car Reynolds - Creator of MS MuSings



I was diagnosed with MS in March, 1997. It had taken five years to get to this diagnosis, and I was told I was lucky because doc had thought it was cancer of the spine all along.

I have been married for over 35 years to Roger, and we have two children, Emilie who is married with three of her own, and son, Michael.

I had gone back to college when my children were in Jr. High and hadn't been teaching too long when the symptoms showed themselves. I managed to get in nine years teaching and left this profession with such a heart filled with emptiness. I had been doing some presentations around the state and saw myself in this role along with the teaching itself.

» Read More

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Understanding pseudo-relapses in Multiple Sclerosis

Information provided to me by Michael Myette

MS LifeLines^® eNewsletter

July 2009

Have you ever been out in the garden or enjoying a barbecue and suddenly experienced a brief episode of muscle weakness or blurred vision? While these symptoms may cause you to fear the onset of an MS relapse, you may very well be experiencing a pseudo-relapse instead.

What is the difference between a relapse and a pseudo-relapse?

A relapse is an actual worsening of your MS. It can include the aggravation of an old MS symptom or the onset of a new one. A relapse lasts at least 24 hours in the absence of an infection or fever. In contrast, a pseudo-relapse is not a worsening of the disease—it's the temporary flare-up of symptoms that have occurred before. And, episodes come and go very quickly, typically within 24 hours.

The heat factor

Heat is the most common cause of a pseudo-relapse. It can be heat from the sun, strenuous exercise, a fever or infection, or even a hot shower—almost anything that raises body temperature. Because heat is so often a factor in pseudo-relapses, you should try and cool down. Move to a cooler location or have a cold drink. This may help you feel more comfortable. If you are experiencing a pseudo-relapse, symptoms will usually disappear once your body cools off.

However, you should always call your doctor right away if you have any concerns or questions.

The information contained in this newsletter is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about your condition.

Sources:
Summer Sizzle. How heat can affect MS
Ask the Expert: Jo Scanzillo
MS LifeLines Magazine, Summer 2007

Is It an MS Attack or Not

www.nationalmssociety.org/about-multiple-sclerosis/treatments/exacerbations/index.aspx
Peter B. Dunne, MD, as told to Diane O' Connell

Tips for staying cool and comfortable
all summer long.

Sincerely,

Your friends at MS LifeLines®

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Information provided here was posted by Stuart Schlossman-RRMS
of MS Views and News, Inc. - To receive our weekly e-newsletter, called Stu's Views and MS related News, register by clicking here.

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MS PERSPECTIVES: Do You Perspire? Part II

By Ed Lash

As I mentioned in part one of this article in the previous issue, I was amazed at the answers I received when I asked at my multiple sclerosis (MS) support groups, “Do you perspire?” A number of people told me they did not perspire at all, or perspired hardly at all. Many had problems with normal sweating, but most had never thought of it as a symptom of MS. Except for occasional cool baths or swimming, however, hardly anyone took any other corrective action, or even thought there was much they could do. Almost no one mentioned it to their doctor; but of those that did, only one got a positive suggestion from their doctor: “Try keeping your skin wet with a damp cloth.”

click here to continue

click the link on the first line to read part one of this article

AND on the Flip side, here is information on Excessive sweating and MS

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Lilly cancels trials for experimental MS drug

source: IBJ.com
July 28, 2009

IBJ staff Eli Lilly and Co. watched $97 million and a whole lot of hope wash down the drain yesterday.

The Indianapolis-based drugmaker and a development partner canceled clinical trials on an experimental drug to treat multiple sclerosis when the drug failed to delay progression of the disease in clinical trial patients.

Lilly had partnered with the discoverer of the drug, Canada-based BioMS, since December 2007. Lilly paid BioMS $87 million up front and an additional $10 million when it completed enrollment in a late-stage, Phase 3 clinical trial.
Lilly had high hopes for the drug, dirucotide, because no effective treatment to fight multiple sclerosis exists. Some analysts projected an effective drug could reap $5 billion a year in sales.

Lilly needs new blockbuster drugs because it will lose about $4.7 billion in revenue when its bestseller Zyprexa loses patent protection in late 2011. Other top-selling Lilly drugs will also lose sales to generic copies in the years after Zyprexa does.

Lilly and BioMS made their announcement after the markets closed yesterday. This morning, Lilly’s shares fell 1 percent, to $34.74 apiece.



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MS Web resources found at the MS Views and News

Update yourself with the Content found at the MS Views and News website Resources section

Alternative Therapies and / or Devices

Caregiver Information

Clinical Trials / Drug Studies

Links to MS Organizations (Globally)

Medications for Multiple Sclerosis

Mobility and Accessibility

MS Facts - In Languages other than English

Multiple Sclerosis Resource Links

MS Views and Related News Site Sponsors

Nutrition

Pharmaceutical / Patient Resources

Stem Cell Related Information Links

Symptoms and Symptom Management

Websites Not Directly Associated w/ MS

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information provided above was gathered and posted by: Stuart Schlossman-RRMS

Register at our website if not yet receiving our weekly ms related e-newsletter

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What Do MS-Related Headaches Feel Like?

Article obtained from: about.com

Does your head ever Just Hurt?

Everybody has a headache occasionally; however, people with multiple sclerosis (MS) are much more prone to migraine-like or cluster headaches than people in the general population. While the cause of most headaches is a mystery, some headaches in people with MS can be caused by lesions, depression or specific medications that they are taking. You should see your doctor for: Any type of unusual headache, a headache that keeps recurring, or one that lasts for a long time.


What Do MS-Related Headaches Feel Like?
Headaches that are directly associated with MS have been described as:

Migraines

These seem to be more common in people with relapsing-remitting MS. They can be described as:

• Often preceded by an aura (blurry or distorted vision signaling that a headache is about to begin) or prodrome symptoms (including fatigue, hunger or anxiety)
• Throbbing on one or both sides of the head
• Can be accompanied by sensitivity to light or sound
• Typically accompanied by nausea, vomiting or loss of appetite
• Residual pain and discomfort often follow headaches
• Lasting from 4 to 12 hours
• 
  

Continue to read of other Named Headaches, like Cluster and Tension, and to just continue to read more of Headaches and MS ... Click HERE to continue, from the about.com website.

So much to read and learn, from the above linked article. My thanks to Julie for processing it.

Goes to show you the need for what I / MS Views and News, does: Unique in what we do. Bridging the gap to all major MS Organizations.

Important to register at our website, so that you can be kept up to date with MS related News. Register by clicking here.

information provided above was gathered and posted by: Stuart Schlossman-RRMS
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Found on the Stu's Views & M.S. News Blog: Links to other MS Bloggers and MS Organization websites

USE the tools found on the toolbar (Right column) to your advantage when seeking to know more of Multiple Sclerosis and alos when needed use the links found below.
THOSE with a RED dot are OTHER MS Organizations

• A Short in the Cord
• A Stellar Life
• Accelerated Cure Project
• Adult Stem Cell Therapy
• Blog 5 - MS Views and Related News
• BRAIN BLOGGER
• Brain-Cheese
• Brass and Ivory
• Carnival of Bloggers
• Centerwatch - Clinical Trials for MS
• Conquer MS
• Courtney's Blog - No Time for MS
• Crystal's -MS, TM and LDN Info
• Disability Resource Exchange
• Fingolimod and Me - a clinical trial blog
• HEALING THROUGH MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS
• Heil Luthringer Foundation
• In the Company of the MonSter
• Lazy Julie
• Life After MS Diagnosis Documentary
• Living with Ataxia
• Living with MS
• Living With MS (Lauren's Tysabri Diary)
• Living with Multiple Sclerosis
• Low Dose Naltrexone Info Website
• Messy Stuff
• MOVE OVER MS .org
• MS Active Source (patient site for Avonex and Tysabri)
• MS Cams in Colorado
• MS Centers of Florida Foundation
• MS Coalition
• MS Foundation
• MS Helping Hands - in Washington State
• MS Lifelines (Patient site for Rebif and Novantrone)
• MS Neighborhood
• MS Observer
• MS Pathways (Patient Site for Betaseron)
• MS Resources
• MS Soc. link for Disease Modifying Drugs - Info for the Newly Diagnosed
• MS Society
• MS Society - UK
• MS Softserve
• MS Views and News, Inc -
• MS Watch (Patient site for Copaxone)
• MS World
• MSRC-UK (Breaking News)
• MSunderstood
• Multiple Sclerosis Association of America
• Multiple Sclerosis Blog
• Multiple Sclerosis Int'l Federation
• Myelin Repair Foundation
• MyMSMyWAY
• National MS Society
• NEUROLOGICAL ASSOCIATES RESEARCH
• OUR MS Stories.com
• Patients Like ME - MS Community
• Perspective IS everything
• Portugals' MS Gang
• Rocky Mountain MS Center
• Shared Solutions
• Sisterhood of the Comprised Mylein
• Stu's Library of MS Archives
• Stu's Views & MS Related News - Newsletter archives
• Stuart's Webmasters', Website
• Sunshine and Moonlight — A Journey with MS
• Swamp Angel
• The "SON" Does SHINE
• The Amazing World of Psychiatry: A Psychiatry Blog
• The Heuga Center for Multiple Sclerosis
• The Multiple Sclerosis Resource Centre-UK
• Turkey Multipl Sleroz ( MS Society)

Know of others to tell me about?
Send an email to stuart@msviewsandnews.org
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MS Views and News is Keeping You up to date with MS related news and information

MS Views and News
a Not-for-Profit 501©(3) Organization,

is dedicated to the global collection and distribution

of current information concerning Multiple Sclerosis. In collaboration with other organizations, MS Views and News uses state-of-the-art communication channels to provide information for those affected by, or interested in MS.

Unique in what we do. Bridging the gap to all major MS Organizations. Providing information and resources from our website, daily via our blog & facebook and weekly by our MS related e-newsletter (Stu's Views and MS Related News).

If not yet receiving our weekly MS related e-Newsletter, please register at: http://www.msviewsandnews.org

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A Mind-Controlled wheelchair invented by Toyota

Fox News had a fascinating interview with Michio Kaku, author of "Physics of the Impossible," in which they discussed Toyota's creation of a mind-controlled wheelchair. The wheelchair works by using "brain-movement sensors that learn the characteristics of what you're thinking."

To read more and vew the Video, click here:

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Relationship Matters: A Program for Couples Living with MS

How can you prevent MS from holding back your most important relationships?

Learn how to manage MS as a team and keep your partnership moving forward with Relationship Matters: A Program for Couples Living with MS. This is one of our most popular programs, so don't miss out — sign up now!

This program is offered thru the National MS Society.


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MS South Africa

Helpline 0860 45 6772

www.multiplesclerosis.co.za

011 477 3540

PO Box 317

Melville 2109

If in South Africa and needing people to talk-with, contact:

Madelein du Toit

(Chairperson - Inland Branch)

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Prescription Drug assistance for anybody with or without MS

• Struggling to get the health care you need? The Society is out front advocating for national health care reform. But meanwhile we know people are dealing with the shortcomings in our system right now. Find out more about our resources for prescription drug assistance and health care programs.

• Often you must advocate for yourself, especially with employers, family members — even insurance companies. But self advocacy is a life skill that doesn't always come easy. Use these resources to learn how to better communicate and negotiate to resolve your needs.

Source: National MS Society

If not yet registered to receive the "Stu's Views and MS Related News", weekly Multiple Sclerosis e-newsletter, then please Click Here to register.

Have something to share with others? If so, please use the post comment link found below. Your name and email address would be appreciated but is not necessary unless you want a response from others. Thank You
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Facts about Multiple Sclerosis and the various stages

Get the Facts

• NEW: What are the four courses of MS? Learn the facts about relapsing and progressive forms of MS — including a new series of online videos from doctors who know.
• 
  
• Knowledge is Power is a free six-week program designed for those newly diagnosed with MS and their loved ones. Written by leading MS experts, this educational series is sent by mail or e-mail and gives families straight talk about what to expect, treatment options, and how to navigate relationships with doctors, employers, and family members.

Source: the National MS Society

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Only about 36% of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients are currently treated with MS drugs

Report: Multiple Sclerosis Is The Fourth Leading Cause Of Disability Among American Women

Only about 36% of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients are currently treated with MS drugs, this percentage is expected to increase to 56% by 2014 as new oral MS therapies are launched

Published on July 27, 2009
by Press Office (Companiesandmarkets.com and OfficialWire)
LONDON, ENGLAND
================

Only about 36% of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients are currently treated with MS drugs, this percentage is expected to increase to 56% by 2014 as new oral MS therapies are launched, which shows bright opportunity for oral drugs in multiple sclerosis market. The injectables market is big but leaves certain side effects which bring the possibility for the oral drugs to succeed. It is expected that oral drugs will bring some ease for the patients. In Canada the prevalence rate of MS is the highest with closely followed by United States which is the second most affected region with increasing death rates of MS patients. Also the prevalence rate in Germany, Norway and Hungary is high. In 2008 the MS treatment market has shown good results despite the slowdown in US and with this success the probability for further growth has increased.

Gender has become a dominant factor in MS during the last decades. The studies have proved that MS prevalence rate is higher in women than men, but the cause of the disease has not been found. MS is the fourth leading cause of disability among American women. Early Age Smoking is also one of the major environmental factors which have increased the chances of MS disease. MS is slowly spreading its reach in the Asian regions. Asia can be a potential market in future.

This report analyses the global multiple sclerosis market demand and potential opportunities prevailing in the market. It gives an overview of the disease and prevalence worldwide, also covers the total market for MS treatment. It presents global MS injectable market growth and discussion of various medicines market share. The report also focuses on the growth of the industry in United States. It gives an overview of the trends and opportunities present in the industry. It also analyses competition in the market with an overview of industry players and their business strategies.

Multiple Sclerosis Treatment Market - Opportunities for Oral Drugs: http://www.companiesandmarkets.com/r.ashx?id=AY4C44X5171293

Contact: Mike King
info@companiesandmarkets.com
Tel: +44 0203 086 8600

An MS Mom's Stem Cell treatment Journey in Argentina

Trip to Argentina - Doctor Fernandez Vina and Mom’s Stem Cell Treatment for MS

Posted by Dan Alvarez on Sunday, July 26th, 2009 at 5:04 pm

To be able to day trade and make money, a trader also needs to focus on his health and that of his loved ones. Money means nothing if those you care about are not healthy. That’s why I wrote this blog post.

Doctor Fernandez Vina and Stem Cell Treatment

In 1996, my mom was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). Since then, her health has gradually deteriorated, picking up speed during the last few years. As a result, I embarked on a trip with her to Argentina to see Doctor Fernandez Vina, a world-renowned pioneer in the field of human stem cell therapy, based on the referral of another MS patient. We returned from our trip on July 14th (all pictures are at the end of this post).

Outside of the United States (which severely lags the rest of the world in stem cell therapy), there are various medically recognized stem cell treatment centers; Fundacion Don Roberto Fernandez Vina in Argentina (or “Fundacion Fernandez Vina” for short) is one of them. Doctor Fernandez Vina has had a lot of success treating Diabetes, MS, and other conditions (click here to contact me if you would like more information on any of this).

Continue to read and view photos of Argentina



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Information on Adult Stem Cell Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and more

Learn from the CellMedicine channel - on various Stem Cell therapies.

Answers to your questions, might be found at this site: www.youtube.com/cellmedicine

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Nursing Practice in Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is a lifelong, potentially disabling disease of the central nervous system that affects the white matter tracts of the central nervous system in a sporadic and unpredictable manner. The disease produces inflammation and demyelination of the white matter, as well as varying amounts of damage and destruction to the underlying axon. The onset of disease is most often in early adulthood. Individuals experience a myriad of symptoms with likely progression of disability over time.

Symptoms may include fatigue, visual disturbances, sensory changes, incoordination, pain, tremor, elimination dysfunction, and cognitive impairment. Symptoms usually occur as relapses early in the disease, or as symptoms that appear over 24–48 hours and recede to some extent over weeks to months. After a decade or so, many individuals experience fewer relapses, but in their place is a slow progression of MS symptoms that often leads to increased functional disability over time. A small percentage of patients will experience progression from the onset of the disease and experience progressive mobility impairment over time.

MS invades every aspect of life, and patients as well as families can be severely affected. Patients and families experience a sense of loss, both real and perceived. The disease can adversely impact the roles of provider, spouse, parent, friend, and employee. There are emotional consequences of the disease as well as physical ones. As the disease is one for life, individuals and families will have multiple needs throughout their lives. They will need emotional support, education, symptom management, adaptation to changes, adaptive equipment, supportive care, and perhaps even end of life care.

Nursing is a critical element in meeting the multiple needs of the MS patient and family. MS nurses have evolved from home-based care providers giving support to the disabled person to certified MS nurses and advanced practice nurses who must be well educated in the disease process and the available treatments. In addition, MS nurses must be sensitive to and supportive of the emotional needs of those affected by the disease. MS nurses must provide appropriate education regarding the disease process, treatment regimes, symptom management, and community resources.

Click here:Nursing Practice in Multiple Sclerosis (ebook) Free Download


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The TYSABRI TOUCH® Prescribing Program for MS Patients

Special note: The TOUCH program is only available in the USA

Because of the risk of PML, TYSABRI is available only through the TOUCH Prescribing Program, which stands for TYSABRI Outreach: Unified Commitment to Health. TOUCH is a restricted distribution program focused on safety. The goal of the TOUCH Prescribing Program is to minimize the risk of PML.

TOUCH was developed with the help of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

• Only prescribers and patients enrolled in the TOUCH Prescribing Program can prescribe and receive TYSABRI
• Only certain pharmacies and infusion sites authorized by the TOUCH Prescribing Program can dispense and infuse TYSABRI

TOUCH offers more interaction with doctors and nurses. Your treatment is closely monitored to help make sure TYSABRI continues to be right for you:

• Once every 4 weeks at each infusion visit
• Plan to see your doctor 3 months after your first infusion, 6 months after your first infusion, and at least as often as every 6 months thereafter

TOUCH assigns you your own specially trained Biogen Idec Case Manager to help:

• Get you started on therapy and answer questions about your therapy
• Find an authorized infusion site in your area
• Provide information about insurance coverage and possible sources of financial assistance, if needed

Continue to read by clicking here

By clicking the above link you will learn of the enrollment process and the Pre-infusion checklist

information provided above was gathered and posted by: Stuart Schlossman-RRMS

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Biogen reports 11th Tysabri brain infection case

Fri Jul 24, 2009 - 6:00pm EDT - Reuters

 * Biogen reports 11th case of Tysabri brain infection

 * Tysabri seen as key growth driver for Biogen

 * Company says won't report new cases on website

  BOSTON, July 24 (Reuters) - An 11th patient taking Biogen
Idec Inc's (BIIB.O) multiple sclerosis drug Tysabri has
developed a potentially deadly brain infection since July 2006,
when it was reintroduced to the market.

 The Cambridge, Massachusetts-based biotech company released
the news on its website late on Friday.

 Tysabri, which Biogen sells in conjunction with Irish
drugmaker Elan Corp Plc (ELN.I), is considered critical to the
future growth of both companies.

Click here to continue reading this Reuters report

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Students' MS essays earn scholarships

South Florida teens awarded scholarships for dealing with multiple sclerosis.

BY JULIE LEVIN - Journalist for the Miami Herald

Sean Giblin says he no longer has the time, or the energy, to feel sorry for himself. The 19-year-old Plantation teen was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at age 16. The illness slowly sapped the coordination and energy he needed to run, and be a part of his beloved soccer team. The changes left him frightened and depressed. But as he comes to terms with his illness, that is slowly changing.

``I realized that why get down on yourself when you can have a positive outlook on the disease and try to help out others who are dealing with other mental or physical illnesses. Be positive, rather than negative,'' said Giblin, a recent South Plantation High School graduate.

In the fall, Giblin will take all that positive energy to Florida Gulf Coast University, where he will start college. He'll take with him a $3,000 scholarship, courtesy of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, as well as a special scooter to help him get around campus.

Each year, the group issues more than $1 million in scholarships to high school seniors who have been diagnosed with MS, or have a parent with the illness. Hundreds of applicants submit essays describing how the illness has affected their lives. Winners are selected not only on the essay, but also their academic records, leadership and participation in school and community, work experience, goals and financial need.

S. FLORIDA WINNERS

Giblin was one of only seven winners in South Florida, and 18 statewide.

Click here to continue reading Sean's Story

Special note: Stuart knows the Giblin family and is quite proud to be able to add this today to this blog.
Sean IS a very special person and deserves the very best.

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Multiple Sclerosis Patients look forward to a day with no injections

Examiner.com - written by: Mike Szymanski
July 23, 2009

German drug makers apply to approve MS pill

Imagine a day with no injections? Multiple Sclerosis suffers can look forward to such a day after the German-based company Merck KGaA asked European regulators to approve its pill for the debilitating nerve disease.

It's really a battle between companies. The German company is racing with Novartis AG to release the first oral medicine for MS. The company asked for European Medicine Agency approval of a pill, called cladribine, and the next step is to get U.S. approval.

Click here to continue.

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Israel leads world in stem cell research

Israel leads world in stem cell research





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Information found here was provided by Chad, a Facebook fan of MS Views and News
.

MS Views and News is dedicated to the global collection and distribution of current information concerning Multiple Sclerosis. In collaboration with other organizations, MS Views and News uses state-of-the-art communication channels to provide information for those affected by, or interested in MS.




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Merck KgaA Asks EU to Approve Multiple Sclerosis Pill (Oral Cladribine)

By Naomi Kresge

July 23 (Bloomberg) -- Merck KGaA asked European regulators to approve its pill for multiple sclerosis, the next step in the German drugmaker’s race against Novartis AG to market the first oral medicine for the debilitating nerve disease.

Merck submitted a marketing authorization application for the pill, cladribine, to the European Medicines Agency and plans an application to U.S. regulators this quarter, the Darmstadt, Germany-based maker of drugs and chemicals said in an e-mailed statement today.

The application “brings us closer to the possibility of providing an oral short-course treatment to patients with multiple sclerosis,” Roberto Gradnik, an executive vice president in Merck’s Serono division, said in the statement.

» Read More

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Motor nerve model could help cure multiple sclerosis, diabetic neuropathy

Washington, July 22 : In what may lead to cures for diabetic neuropathy and help further understanding of multiple sclerosis and related conditions, researchers at the University of Central Florida

(UCF) have for the first time designed a model motor nerve system that''s insulated and organized like the human body.

MS, diabetic neuropathy, and other conditions caused by a loss of myelin insulation around nerves can be debilitating and even deadly, but adequate treatments do not yet exist. That''s in large part because of deficiencies in model research systems.

Click to continue at the third paragraph


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Have something to share with others? If so, please use the post comment link found below. Your name and email address would be appreciated but is not necessary unless you want a response from others. Thank You
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Multiple Sclerosis Information from "The Patients' Voice"-Uk

On "The Patient's Voice" website Find out about Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and MS symptoms including:

• which tests are employed to diagnose Multiple Sclerosis
• which are the most common MS early symptoms and MS signs including MS pain
• the causes of Multiple Sclerosis
• the disease subtypes, such as primary progressive MS, relapsing-remitting MS and secondary progressive MS
• the latest therapies and treatments and the condition prognosis
• information on the disease epidemiology and its pathophysiology (including MS lesions and inflammation)
• the history of the condition
• current directions in MS research

The site also includes a comprehensive list of MS organisations and associations worldwide suitable for either MS patients or Healthcare Professionals.


Click here to view their listings of USEFUL Links, to globally known MS organizations




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Prediction of acute multiple sclerosis relapses by transcription levels of peripheral blood cells

The ability to predict the spatial frequency of relapses in multiple sclerosis (MS) would enable physicians to decide when to intervene more aggressively and to plan clinical trials more accurately.

Methods: In the current study our objective was to determine if subsets of genes can predict the time to the next acute relapse in patients with MS. Data-mining and predictive modeling tools were utilized to analyze a gene-expression dataset of 94 non-treated patients; 62 patients with definite MS and 32 patients with clinically isolated syndrome (CIS).

The dataset included the expression levels of 10,594 genes and annotated sequences corresponding to 22,215 gene-transcripts that appear in the microarray.

Click here to continue

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What is an MS Centre?

As defined by the:

• MSIF (Multiple Sclerosis International Federation) ,
• The CMSC (Consortium of MS Centers),
• and the IOMSN (International Organization of MS Nurses),

Click here to review


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Merck Serono Launches RebiSmart™, First Electronic Injection Device For Delivery of Multiple Sclerosis Treatment Rebif®

Merck Serono Launches RebiSmart™, First Electronic Injection Device For Delivery of Multiple Sclerosis Treatment Rebif®

* RebiSmart™ is designed to improve ease of handling and usage and introduces the potential for improved treatment adherence for multiple sclerosis patients
* First launch of RebiSmart™ together with recently approved multidose cartridges of the new formulation of Rebif® in the European Union and Canada

Geneva, Switzerland, June 24, 2009 – Merck Serono, a division of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, announced today the launch of the innovative individually adjustable electronic injection device RebiSmart™ for the self-administration of Rebif® (interferon beta-1a), the company’s disease-modifying drug used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). RebiSmart™ is the first device of its kind in this indication and was specifically designed for ease of handling and use. The unique features of RebiSmart™ also introduce the potential for improved treatment adherence, helping patients receive the full benefit from their treatment.

Click here to continue reading.

Meanwhile, if you are not yet registered to receive our weekly MS related e-Newsletter, called "Stu's Views and MS Related News", please click here to register. It will take less than 30 seconds to complete this form. - Thank you
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Pain and other unpleasant sensory disturbances are relatively common in MS

Sensory complaints of the upper extremities in multiple sclerosis: relative efficacy of nortriptyline and trans cutaneous electrical nerve stimulation

summary: Pain and other unpleasant sensory disturbances are relatively common in MS and can have an important impact on the quality of life. These symptoms are generally due to damage in the central nervous system and their treatment is often unsatisfactory.

click here to continue to read from the second paragraph
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Effect of a 4-week period of unloaded leg cycling exercise on spasticity in multiple sclerosis

obtained from the msif.org

summary: Rehabilitation has been shown to be crucial in MS, especially when there is a certain degree of disability. Studies also suggested that rehabilitation might be important for spasticity management. The authors aimed to investigate the effect of a four-week programme of unloaded leg cycling on the current scales for spasticity, from both objective (clinical examination and neurophysiology) and subjective (people with MS) points of view. They found that, although this four-week exercise programme did not have a positive impact on objective scales, some improvement was observed from the participants’ point of view.

authors: Sosnoff J, Motl RW, Snook EM, Wynn D

source: NeuroRehabilitation. 2009;24(4):327-31

weblink: click here to read more

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Wireless Device Helps (Plano, Tx.) MS Patients Walk

By Arezow Doost
PLANO (CBS 11 / TXA 21) ― Jul 20, 2009

For Dwight Riskey, walking can be a challenge. "I have to tilt my hip and swing my hip so my toe doesn't hit the ground," he said.

"I used to love all sorts of sports," Riskey continued. "I had to give most of those up. Even golf."

About 20 years ago, the 59-year-old was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis after gradually noticing that his right leg was getting weaker. He would fall regularly while walking, and started using a cane. "Eventually, you find yourself not wanting to go to a baseball game because it's too far of walk," Riskey said.

The Plano man started attending to physical therapy at UT Southwestern Medical Center. But in January, Riskey was introduced to a wireless device for patients with neurological damage. And now, he's walking again, without falling.

It is called the Bioness L-300. The wireless device sends electronic signals to stimulate the nerve, turning on Riskey's muscles as he takes each step. "It's got little sticky electros," Riskey said. "This thing receives a signal from a little switch in my shoe."

Click here to continue reading

Read more of the Bioness L300

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A bitter pill: Price of biologic drugs often too high for poor, ill seniors who need them

BY Michael Mcauliff
DAILY NEWS WASHINGTON BUREAU

Sunday, July 19th 2009,

WASHINGTON - DeAnna Platkin couldn't afford the advanced medication for her multiple sclerosis, and she couldn't wait for health care reform.

So the 72-year-old Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, grandmother signed legal papers declaring her husband of 50 years refused to support her.

"My husband is a funny man. He doesn't want help from anyone, and this was hard for him," Platkin said. "It makes him feel like he doesn't want to take care of me."

Platkin's drug, a high-tech biological-class medication called Betaseron, came out 17 years ago, and costs more than $2,000 a month. If it was a regular medicine, there'd be a generic alternative by now.

continue reading this NY Daily News article at the 5th Paragraph

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"My Hiatus from my MS Medication - The Pros and Cons - a valuable lesson learned...." - (Re-Circulated)

Yes, this article has been mentioned several times. Think of it's importance for you to remember and for all new people to this blog or our other pages, to be seeing it for the first time. It was originally published on April 3, 2008.

(To Review the article, at the bottom of this message is the link to view)

Many, many comments were left to this blog posting and scores of others simply sent email responses directly to me.

My Thanks to all, who have been leaving comments concerning this matter that needs to be circulated and re-circulated time and time again... Reason, there are always new people to read it and there are always those, who consider either not taking an MS medication or those who want to do, as I did and take that medication vacation.

There were follow-up to the original story found here. Each can be found by doing a blog search (using the box in the top left corner of the blog) for "Medication Vacation" ..

It is vital for all to chat with your medical doctor before making any changes to medication dosage.

I hope, that if you know somebody considering a medication vacation for any chronic condition, that you inform them of this blog posting.
----------------
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If you have any questions, suggestions or comments, please write to me at: stuart@msviewsandnews.org

Best Regards,

Stuart - July 20, 2009 8:51 AM


CLICK:
http://wwwmsviewsandrelatednews.blogspot.com/2008/04/my-hiatus-from-my-ms-medication-pros.html

..
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Multipl Sclerosis: Community gathers to help local woman seek cutting-edge treatment in Israel

By Larissa Theodore, Times Staff

Published: Saturday, July 18, 2009 11:15 PM EDT

Patti “Trish” Brown was in her late 30s when she first began having symptoms of multiple sclerosis. The Beaver resident remembers bending her head forward and feeling a shock down the length of her spine. She asked two physicians, but neither was concerned. So Brown pushed the symptoms aside until 1998 when she had a major flare.

She and a friend were walking in the Beaver Cemetery when her right foot stopped working.

“I couldn’t take another step,” said Brown, now 53.

Her symptoms only worsened — from severe fatigue to balance and walking problems. One day, numbness crept into her feet and up her legs, and by that afternoon had worked its way up to her chest. Last year, Brown was officially diagnosed with the disease.

>> Continue reading this article


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