What Are the Treatments for Fatigue in MS?

The Multiple Sclerosis International Federation asserts that 95 percent of people with multiple sclerosis experience fatigue. Also known as lassitude, multiple sclerosis fatigue consists of a lack of physical and mental energy that interferes with completion of desired activities. This fatigue has nothing to do with the type, duration or onset of the multiple sclerosis and the how and why of its occurrence is poorly understood. Medications can treat fatigue by altering brain chemistry.

Provigil

• Provigil, or modafinil, when used as an off-label treatment for fatigue in multiple sclerosis does make a difference in some patients' lives It is a wakefulness-promoting medicine used to keep multiple sclerosis patients active throughout the day. According to the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation, two-thirds of people with multiple sclerosis see positive benefits from this medication after just two weeks of therapy. It is recommended for those with mild to severe fatigue and patients who have not responded to amantadine, which is another medication used for fatigue in multiple sclerosis. Its side effects are headaches, nausea and weakness when taken in higher doses.

Symmetrel

• Symmetrel , also known as amantadine, is an anti-viral medication used for Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis fatigue. It has been used since 1980 in the treatment of multiple sclerosis. The exact way it works to treat multiple sclerosis fatigue is unknown. It is a first line of action medication for fatigue and used for mild fatigue. According to the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation, it benefits one-third of multiple sclerosis patients. It is relatively cheap, well-tolerated and safe to use. Its side effects are vivid dreams, hallucinations, hyperactivity and nausea.

Cylert

• Cylert, a brand name for pemoline, is a central nervous system stimulant. Cylert is used for multiple sclerosis fatigue, but according to the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation, it has a poor track record and has been unable to treat fatigue properly. It is tolerated poorly among patients: in higher doses causes liver damage and vigilance and blood tests are required while taking the medication. It is not a first line medication for multiple sclerosis fatigue. However, it is an option and can help some patients.