Multiple sclerosis is a complex disease which often requires ongoing medication treatment. Both the disease itself and the treatments needed for MS can lead many patients to wonder about MS-specific guidance during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The good news from numerous experts is this: Covid-19 vaccines are safe and effective for people with multiple sclerosis. This greenlight for vaccination comes from reputable sources, including the MS Society’s panel of medical advisers.
In short, the benefits of vaccination outweigh the risk for this patient population.
The disease of MS can increase the risk of adverse outcomes of a Covid-19 infection, which is why vaccination is recommended. However, it should be noted that vaccination can produce a short-term fever as a side effect, which can temporarily worsen MS symptoms. Fortunately, research has also established that there is no increase in MS relapse after Covid-19 vaccination.
This comforting message for patients – that the Covid-19 vaccines are safe to use and do not interact in a harmful way with MS medications – is echoed by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s group of researchers and medical experts who gathered specifically to review the safety of Covid-19 vaccines for people with MS.
This group concluded that even disease modifying therapy (DMT) can be continued during vaccination. However, there are considerations about timing DMT dosing with a vaccination schedule. Further information about this can be found here.
As always, BioPlus Specialty Pharmacy is ready to partner with your office as the ‘fast & easy’ way to get your patients referred for the specialty medications they need.