Everyday People Matter

Multiple Sclerosis Drug Poses Dilemma for Women Who Want to Conceive

| May 4, 2018 | Multiple Sclerosis

Women who use a commonly-prescribed multiple sclerosis drug for treatment of their symptoms may find complications arising when they choose to stop the drug before conceiving, or continue to take the drug during their pregnancy.

A team of Italian researchers recently found a number of reproductive hazards involving Natalizumab , a drug that is commonly used to treat symptoms of multiple sclerosis. This is an extremely potent drug, and according to the Italian researchers, there are several reproductive challenges facing women who try to get pregnant while on the medication.

Women who take the drug to manage their symptoms have a much higher chance of suffering a relapse of their symptoms during their pregnancy, if they cease taking Natalizumab before they conceive. However, if the woman continues to take it even after conceiving, then there’s a serious risk to the health of the fetus. The researchers found that continuing to take the drug after conception, was associated with a much higher risk of a miscarriage. Even in those cases in which the pregnancy was carried to full term, the drug was associated with a much higher risk of a lower birth weight, or a shorter length.

The researchers say that these findings need to be taken into consideration by women and their partners before they start a family. According to their research, women who take the drug must continue to take Natalizumab at least until their pregnancy test is confirmed, and thereafter, must cease taking the drug. Although this may place them at an increased risk of a relapse, it does lessen the risk a little.

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune condition in which the body attacks the nerve cells, causing symptoms that include muscular spasms, pain, fatigue, and weakness. Symptoms are typically progressive, and can worsen rapidly.

Social Security Disability Benefits for Multiple Sclerosis

Filing for Social Security benefits for multiple sclerosis can be challenging, because the criteria that the agency requires be met are very specific. However, if your condition has severely limited your ability to function and earn a sustainable income, the agency may consider the limitations and the impact that your multiple sclerosis has, before approving your claim.

For answers to questions about whether you are eligible for benefits for a claim for multiple sclerosis, speak to Atlanta Social Security disability lawyer Lisa Siegel.