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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
And confusion, which can especially be a problem for people with MS who may already have cognitive symptoms (problems with thinking and processing information). If you’re on a DMT that also causes cognitive issues, taking these medications could make these challenges even harder to manage.6. Muscle RelaxantsMuscle relaxants, such as baclofen and tizanidine, are often prescribed to reduce muscle spasticity (feelings of stiffness and muscle spasms) in people with MS. However, these medications can cause significant side effects, particularly when combined with DMTs.Fatigue and WeaknessMuscle relaxants can make you feel more tired and weak, which may worsen the muscle weakness and fatigue people with MS, especially those on DMTs, often experience.Balance IssuesThese drugs can affect coordination, increasing the risk of falls. This is especially dangerous if MS or your DMT already makes maintaining balance hard.7. AntihistaminesAntihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and cetirizine (Zyrtec), are commonly used to manage allergies. However, these drugs can also make some MS-related symptoms worse.Drowsiness and DizzinessSome antihistamines cause drowsiness and dizziness, which may worsen fatigue and balance issues related to MS and its treatment. If you’re also taking DMTs that can cause dizziness, such as interferon beta-1a (Avonex, Rebif), the combination can make it even harder to stay alert and steady on your feet.Cognitive ImpairmentSome antihistamines may cause poor memory and concentration, making it harder for people with MS to manage their cognitive symptoms.8. Wakefulness-Promoting DrugsFatigue is one of the most common and challenging symptoms for people with MS, so certain medications may be recommended to help. If, after careful assessment by your doctor, excessive daytime sleepiness is also found, wakefulness-promoting drugs like modafinil (Provigil) and armodafinil (Nuvigil) might be an option. Although these medications can be effective, their use should be carefully considered for people taking DMTs.Cardiovascular Side EffectsAdding wakefulness-promoting drugs could increase cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel) side effects for people taking DMTs like fingolimod. Modafinil is known to increase heart rate and blood pressure, which could make problems worse if you’re already managing heart-related symptoms from DMTs.Sleep DisturbancesModafinil can help manage daytime fatigue, but it may also cause nighttime sleep disturbances, including
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