Resources
The following nonprofit organizations also offer programs that may be able to help people who have insurance and still need help with the cost of their disease-modifying therapy:
- The Assistance Fund 877-245-4412
- GoodDays 877-968-7233
- HealthWell Foundation 800-675-8416 *Medicare only
- Patient Advocate Foundation Co-Pay Relief Program 866-512-3861 *Medicare, Medicaid, Military only
- Patient Access Network Foundation (PAN) 866-316-7263 *Medicare only
Copay assistance programs frequently open and close due to fluctuating funding levels. If you would like to receive an email or text notification when one of the above copay assistance programs has opened, we suggest using this free tool:
Prescription Assistance Programs for MS Symptom Management
Prescription Assistance Program information for symptom-management medications can be found on www.needymeds.org or call (800) 503-6897. NeedyMeds is a national nonprofit organization that provides online information to help people who can’t afford medications and healthcare costs.
Other nonprofit organizations may be able to provide additional assistance with the cost of medications. However, these groups have very limited funds available and may not be able to provide assistance at the time an individual applies. These groups include:
- The Assistance Fund at www.tafcares.org; to apply, visit www.tafcares.org/patients/apply/ or call (855) 845-3663
- The Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation at www.panfoundation.org; to apply, visit www.panapply.org or call (866) 316-7263
Please note: The information in this listing has been collected from each pharmaceutical company separately and may be subject to change. For program specifics, please contact the corresponding patient services program.
Treatment Options
Medication
There are a variety of medications now available to treat inflammatory MS. Studies have shown that they lessen the frequency and severity of MS attacks and slow the progression of the illness. The therapies available for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) are administered either by injection or infusion. Because MS disease activity is now known to be continuing in the CNS even when symptoms are not present, it is important to begin taking one of these medications as soon as a diagnosis is made.
Other Treatments
Therapies are available to treat individual symptoms as they occur. Eating well and exercising are two positive things you can do in addition to taking your multiple sclerosis medication. Some people with MS take part in physical therapy, exercise or yoga to help with flexibility, coordination and strength. Exercise has been proven to help with many MS symptoms. But make sure you speak with your doctor or health care provider before starting any exercise regimen.