Cephalon, Inc. recently reported positive findings from a new clinical study on the effectiveness of Provigil®. Generally used for the treatment of narcolepsy, this medication was statistically successful in reducing fatigue in a study of MS patients.
Because these medications are of limited effectiveness, and can be accompanied by unwelcome side effects, many patients combat fatigue in other ways. Patients learn how to simplify and manage their daily tasks more effectively, so as to save energy. Physical therapy can teach some how to obtain benefits from using assistive devices to prolong energy. In addition, avoiding heat, taking scheduled naps, limiting overexertion, managing stress, and monitoring the effects of medication are other steps taken to combat fatigue.
For Further Reading
Fatigue and Spasticity MS Talk is a regular feature of HealthTalk Interactive that brings together people with MS and experts like patient advocate Brenda Snow, and Dr. Randall Shapiro of the Fairview MS Center in Minneapolis.
Coping with Fatigue in MS Takes Understanding and Planning
The Fatigue Severity Scale is used to distinguish true fatigue from mental depression. It is often used to evaluate Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, but some studies have used it to document MS associated fatigue, as well. Unfortunately, there is no agreement among researchers regarding the best way to classify MS fatigue. Some studies have strictly focused on physical fatigue, while others have included mental fatigue as well. It's an interesting test to take, although I'm not certain that there are any profound conclusions to be made from the results.
Multiple Sclerosis: Understanding the Unique Role of Fatigue by J. Lamar Freed, Psy.D.
Fatigue - National Multiple Sclerosis Society
For abstracts of the following studies see MDChoice.com
1Fatigue In Multiple Sclerosis: cross sectional correlation with brain MRI findings in 71 Patients, Bakshi R; Miletich RS; Henschel K; Shaikh ZA; Janardhan V; Wasay M; Stengel LM; Ekes R; Kinkel PR, Neurology 1999 Sep 22; 53(5):1151-3
2Fatigue in Multiple Sclerosis: interrelations between fatigue complaints, cerebral MRI abnormalities and neurological disability, Van der Werf SP; Jongen PJ; Lycklama a Nijeholt GJ; Barkhof F; Hommes OR; Bleijenberg G, J Neurol Sci 1998 Oct 8; 160(2):164-70
NOTE: This article is derived from personal experience and countless hours of reading MS-related materials. It is intended for general information only. It is recommended that you consult your physician or other health care professional for specific advice on your health care choices.
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