Steroids
I am due to start Ocrevus soon (my choice) but want to reject steroids. I have type 1 insulin dependent diabetes and managed through three flare ups without steroids. Apparently my first MRI was 'impressive' and last one just had this year showed a 'sizeable' lesion. Neuro offered steroids earlier this year which I rejected, no problem. I asked the nurse when running through the ocrevus checklist if steroids were mandatory and explained my blood glucose concerns, but not had a clear response.
Has anyone rejected steroids and had any problems with the HCPs? or am I naive to reject the steroids? I may decide to risk the steroids if my reaction if really bad, but don't want it if I'll be OK. I've been OK on copaxone reaction-wise but it didn't work for me. Multiple daily injections are no problem for me after 27 years.
Thanks :)
@peppergirl , you can only ask the question at the Infusion Centre. I could imagine that Steroids are part of the protocol, to head of any potential exacerbation of your MS symptoms that your body may make whilst accepting the infusion. As you probably know, Steroids aren't mandatory to address MS activity. The body will still recover without the Steroids, it'll just take longer.
The steroid is given to prevent infusion reactions during which is the most common side effect. It’s a very small dose than what’s given for a relapse. I’m very sensitive to steroids so my neurologist has given me permission to do it without, but I’m too scared for now because even with the steroid I’ve had a reaction during my first half and first full dose, but no reaction during the second half. Usually reactions are minor, but it is possible to have a more severe reaction which is why they give the steroid and Benadryl prior to the infusion. You might want to wait and see how you do during your first half. I’m also in a ocrevus FB page and some have refused steroids or been given permission to do the infusion without the steroid and they did fine. Good luck.