MS Speaks

News flash! 80-year-old with MS for 40 years will be doing glatiramer acetate shots three times a week!


The rx is ready at the pharmacy, I'm told. With luck I'll have it by Thursday, but then will need to set up an appointment for a nurse to come to help with the first shot.


In case I pass out, the nurse is recommended. I'm not expecting to pass out but I'd like to ask a couple of questions of the nurse anyway.


Apparently, because I called the company about the nurse, I'll be getting some additional materials.


Shared Solutions (when I had brand-name Copaxone years ago) sent out all kinds of freebies. I'm still using the two ballpoint pens that say Teva Neuroscience on them, and there was a can opener that did quite well for a few years. I'm also still using the shoulder bag that says Copaxone on it.  It's the only handbag I ever use, in fact.


I don't expect these promotional items from Mylan, the company that produces generic Copaxone. I probably won't receive the handy hot/cold gel packs that Shared Solutions supplied either but that's all right. I still have the gel packs from Shared Solutions.


These pharmaceutical companies really worked hard to get people to take their drugs back then. I don't know if they're putting forth that much effort nowadays.