Multiple Sclerosis Forum - Avonex Vs. Copaxone For Ms Treatment

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Q: Avonex Vs. Copaxone For Ms Treatment

asked by: cwoods on January 10th, 2008

New User

I was diagnosed 6 years ago with MS and at the time of being diagnosed experienced blurred vision, numbness in my left leg, and tingling feelings all over my body.

I was placed on Avonex as a treatment and thus far have not had an episode to speak of. My new insurance company will not approve of my taking Avonex and says my condition doesn't warrent me starting a non-formulary Avonex. They recommend either Copaxone or Rebif.

For me and my lifestyle the ease of taking Avonex once a week works for me and I have been able to handle the side effects as copared to injecting treatment three times a week or daily with Copaxone or Rebif.

How do I contest the dedision and best pursaid my insurance company to cover my use of Avonex for the treatment of my MS?

Replies(3)

Debbster

replied on April 19th, 2008

New User

Copaxone

I was diagnosed with MS 9 years ago The only injection I have ever taken is Copaxone. I have been very pleased with it. I have had only had 2 exasperations during all of that time. They were both mild. I have never lost mobiliy, and I am very blessed.

I can also tell you that whatever company you choose, they can help with your co-pay if it gets to be too much. My insurance decided that injections were not necessary, and they would only pay 40%. That equaled around $600.00 I called Tevin (the makers of Copaxone), and they gave me the name of The Chronic Disease Fund.

I would love to hear back from you!

God Bless

YourPlan2

replied on June 12th, 2008

New User

Same here - prescription plan financially forcing me off Avonex

Same problem here, too.

I probably shouldn't complain, but money doesn't grow on trees!
Last year's Avonex 30-day supply cost $40.
2008 it went up to $50..... then out of the blue in April (same year), it went to $90 and now Avonex is not considered preferred. However, BetaSeron, Copaxone, & Rebif are. I am doing very well on Avonex. Why do I have to change?

Not a happy MSer right now.....
Mad

Debbster

replied on June 13th, 2008

New User

Switched from Copaxone to Rebif

My doctor (today) put me on Rebif. She decided that the copxone had lost its effectiveness. She said that it sometimes happens with all of the injections. Now I have to go through the whole insurance nightmare again. I am trying to be positive, as I am doing better than a lot of people with MS.

YP2, don't get discouraged. (yes I know it is easier said that done) Find a support group of some kind. Mine is friends from my church that pray for me. When I was going through all of the insurance garbage-when they wouldn't pay for all of the Copxone-prayer is the only thing that got me through it.

If you would like to contact me directly, pm me.

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