MS Medications to Manage MS Symptoms (Cont.)

MS Medications for Sexual Dysfunction

Sexual dysfunction may also occur, especially in patients with urinary problems. Men may experience occasional failure to achieve an erection. Penile implants, injection of the drug papaverine, and electrostimulation are techniques used to resolve the problem.
 
Women may experience insufficient lubrication or have difficulty reaching orgasm. In these cases, vaginal gels and vibrating devices may be helpful.
 
Counseling is also beneficial, especially in the absence of urinary problems, since psychological factors can also cause these symptoms. For instance, depression can intensify symptoms of fatigue, pain, and sexual dysfunction. In addition to counseling, the physician may prescribe antidepressant or antianxiety medications.
 

MS Medications for Tremors

Tremors are often resistant to therapy, but can sometimes be treated with drugs or, in extreme cases, surgery. Investigators are currently examining a number of experimental treatments for tremor.
 

MS Medications Used to Treat MS Symptoms

The following chart provides a list of medications used to treat specific symptoms of MS.

Symptom
Drug
Spasticity
Baclofen (Lioresal)
Tizanidine (Zanaflex)
Dantrolene (Dantrium)
Optic neuritis
Methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol)
Oral steroids
Fatigue
Antidepressants
Pain
Aspirin or acetaminophen
Antidepressants
Codeine
Trigeminal neuralgia
Carbamazapine, other anticonvulsants
Sexual dysfunction
Papaverine injections (in men)

 
(Click Multiple Sclerosis Medications for more information on medications used to slow down the progression of MS.)

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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD