Forgot password?

Multiple Sclerosis - MS LifeLines

An educational and supportive community for people living with multiple sclerosis.

TEXT SIZE

aaa

I wish I could afford my MS therapy

Rod — MS LifeLines® Ambassador


When I was diagnosed with relapsing MS, I was kind of relieved. I finally knew what was going on. Still I was worried about what was going to happen to me. I had a lot of questions. Would I be able to work? Would I be disabled? What could I do to make myself feel better? I decided to do some research and find out more. One of the most important things I learned was that getting on treatment early after my diagnosis could make a difference.

I went to see a neurologist, and she gave me several treatment options. We decided that Rebif would be the best choice for me. But I was very concerned about paying for it. I didn't have insurance, and there was no way I could afford it on my own. I started to panic a little, but my neurologist urged me to call MS LifeLines and ask about assistance programs. She said they might be able to help me get affordable access to my Rebif therapy. I'm glad I took her advice.

The program turned out to be far better than I expected. I called MS LifeLines, and the specialist sent me a form. I sent it in, and a few days later, I got a call telling me I was approved. I remember being so happy I was almost in tears. In my situation, the MS LifeLines assistance program would cover the entire cost of my therapy. It was a lot more assistance than I anticipated. I was sure I would have some kind of co-pay. But they kept telling me it would be free of charge. It was an awesome feeling.

I have to say that MS LifeLines was incredibly helpful. They guided me through the process every step of the way. I ended up using the MS LifeLines assistance program for two years, and then I was able to get health insurance through my job.

If someone with relapsing MS is worried about paying for their Rebif therapy, I would tell them to definitely pick up the phone and call MS LifeLines. In my situation, they were able to help. Thanks to them, I was able to start and stay on Rebif.

MS LifeLines is here to help

At MS LifeLines, our team of specialists can serve as an invaluable resource, answering your questions regarding reimbursement and insurance. We will do our very best to help you understand your insurance benefits and help get coverage for Rebif. MS LifeLines cannot guarantee that you will receive insurance coverage or reimbursement for your therapy, but our specialists will conduct a thorough review of your situation to determine eligibility for an MS LifeLines assistance program, or we will refer you to the appropriate state or federal program.

To find out if you qualify for MS LifeLines Access Made Simple or other MS LifeLines assistance programs, call MS LifeLines at 1-877-447-3243, Monday through Friday 8 AM and 8 PM ET and Saturdays 9 AM to 5 PM ET.

This story reflects the personal experience of one person. Results and experiences vary from patient to patient. It is best to contact your doctor to discuss what's best for you. Rod is an MS LifeLines Ambassador, and he has chosen to share his story with other people living with MS. MS LifeLines Ambassadors are sponsored by EMD Serono, Inc. and Pfizer Inc.

Next story: Vickie >
< Back to index

Brought to you by EMD Serono, Inc. and Pfizer Inc, the co-marketers of Rebif® (interferon beta-1a) in the US EMD SeronoPfizer

Prescribing Information - Medication Guide

This information is intended only for residents of the United States.

Rebif is used to treat relapsing forms of MS to decrease the frequency of relapses and delay the occurrence of some of the physical disability that is common in people with MS. Efficacy has been established in controlled studies up to 2 years in duration. Rebif is not approved for the treatment of chronic progressive multiple sclerosis. Rebif is available by prescription only in 22 mcg and 44 mcg pre-filled syringes and a titration pack.

Before beginning treatment, patients should discuss with their doctor the potential benefits and risks associated with Rebif. Let your doctor know if you have a history of depression, seizures, liver disease, thyroid problems, and blood count or bleeding problems or if you have had previous allergic reactions to medications. Tell your doctor about all medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements. Rebif and other medicines may affect each other causing serious side effects. Talk to your doctor before you take any new medicines. Rebif is not recommended for women who are or plan to become pregnant.

Potential serious side effects of Rebif include depression, liver problems, risk to pregnancy, injection site problems and severe allergic reactions. Allergic reactions are rare and may be associated with difficulty breathing and loss of consciousness, which requires immediate medical attention.

The most common side effects with Rebif are injection site reactions, flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, muscle aches, tiredness), depression, abdominal pain, increased liver enzymes, and blood cell count decreases. Let your doctor know immediately if you have any of these symptoms or feel sad, tired, hot or cold, experience hives, rashes, bruising, yellowing of the skin, or a change in body weight (gain or loss).

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

This information is not intended to replace discussions with your healthcare provider. For additional information about Rebif, please consult the Medication Guide or Prescribing Information and talk to your doctor. You can also call toll free 1-877-44-REBIF (1-877-447-3243). Rebif is available by prescription only.

MS LifeLines is an educational support service for people living with MS and their families. MS LifeLines and MS LifeLines Ambassadors are sponsored by EMD Serono, Inc. and Pfizer Inc.

Rebif, Rebiject II and MS LifeLines are registered trademarks and the Rebif logo is a trademark of EMD Serono, Inc. or its affiliates.

MS in Balance Your Life in Full is a service mark of EMD Serono, Inc. or its affiliates.

Copyright 2009 EMD Serono, Inc. All rights reserved.