Natalizumab and Headaches: What Users Say

• Fin...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 7, 2014

For Multiple Sclerosis "I am on my third dose of Tysabri. I did poorly on Avonex, and my neurologist has been hesitant to place me on the other multiple sclerosis medicines due to the serious side effects of the Avonex. I developed sepsis 10 times in 2 years. So when I was admitted to the hospital and transferred to ICU twice in 2 months due to MS, we decided to try Tysabri. The side effects have been difficult to say the least. Terrible urinary tract infections, headaches, ringing of the ears, anxiety, and depression. I am JCV positive so in fairness, the anxiety may be due to fear of the PML virus. I am scheduled to have lab work after the next infusion and will make a decision on continuing therapy."

• Anonymous
• September 7, 2011

For Multiple Sclerosis "Tysabri has changed my life. I have had 20 infusions now. At first, I could feel a major 'up' and then could slowly feel the medicine wearing off towards the end of the 28-day cycle. Now, I don't feel much of an up or a down, but I feel consistent and 'normal' again. I feel more level-headed, have consistent energy levels, and am able to work out at the gym two hours a day! The only side effect I've ever had was a bad headache on the evening of my infusion for the first 2 or 3 months. At my 6-month MRI/follow-up, we found out that the Tysabri was actually causing a significant reduction in my lesions. I haven't had a relapse and only a handful of flare-ups (that last maybe an hour tops)."

• 201...
• June 3, 2016

For Multiple Sclerosis "In July of 2014, I was given the diagnosis of MS. The medicine has worked well for me so far. I have headaches after infusions, they don't last long. I take Cambia for the headaches. Tysabri helps me to walk, drive, travel, and keep my job. My dizzy spells don't happen as much. Tysabri is the only medicine I've taken for MS. I am still in shock from being diagnosed with this condition. I am very happy with Tysabri, even with the risks of JCV and PML."

• ash...
• January 12, 2014

For Multiple Sclerosis "I was diagnosed in 2010. Tried Copaxone and Avonex. They caused allergic reactions. Started Tysabri in March 2012. I haven't had any new lesions. I get tired and bad headaches after infusions. The cost is getting to be too much, even with my insurance from my employer and the assistance program from Tysabri."

• Kat...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• May 30, 2017

For Multiple Sclerosis "I've used Tysabri for the past couple of years. Prior to Tysabri, I used a couple of other drugs, but nothing worked as well as Tysabri. My wish would be to take it every 21 days instead of 28 days. The 4-5 days before infusion time can be very painful, with head and body aches accompanied by brain fog. I don't understand the risks for a 21-day infusion, but I'm willing to learn."

• myg...
• May 6, 2010

For Multiple Sclerosis "I sometimes get a headache and some fatigue the day of and after the infusion, but this has done wonders in keeping my MS symptoms at bay. My lesions haven't been active for about a year now, which I believe is because of the Tysabri."

• Jo...
• December 31, 2009

For Multiple Sclerosis "I have had 8 infusions. They help. I have mild headaches after each one, but a nap fixes that. No issues. I do know that you have to stay in close contact with your doctor, monitor liver function, and take care of yourself."

• Bli...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• December 4, 2020

For Multiple Sclerosis "Abdominal discomfort, gaseous and irritable stomach, eye allergy, headache, drowsiness, urinary frequency, mental issues. I have been on Tysabri for 7 years, 16 with MS. It keeps me stable for a long, long time. Best treatment in my case. Hope you all are fine."