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Sorry, Jennifer, that you’ve joined the MG club. But now that you’ve been diagnosed. I hope you’re able to control your symptoms soon. Until then, remember that you must keep fighting for your quality of life. To do that better, knowledge is power!
MG is called the Snowfake Disease because it’s symptoms/treatments different for each of us. The only thing that most of us find is that our condition keeps changing. Treatment must be constantly customized for YOU.
There are numerous treatment options, but I’ll focus on the usual 1st used medication. Mestinon (Pyridostigmine) is most often prescribed to MG patients in 2 variations – the original shorter acting formula and the extended release version. The original formula comes in 60mg tablets that takes effect in 30-60 minutes and last for approximately 4-6 hours. This medication is tried 1st because it’s easier to try different doses/intervals. But taking too much Mestinon can actually increase MG symptoms. So, the trick is to start on a lower dose and increase until you find what’s just enough to control your symptoms! If you’re taking at least 3 tablets daily, you may be switched to Mestinon ER 360 mg, which last about 2.5 times longer than the original formula. If needed, you may still need multiple doses through the day.
Also, your doctor may prescribe something to supress your immune system, such as Prednisone. Also, there are additional treatments, from surgery (thymectomy), immunoglobulin (antibody) infusions – either by intravenous (IVIg) or subcutaneous (SCIg) and/or plasmapharesis (antibody filtering). Plus, there are more options that you can read about online and you should always discuss with your doctor any recommended options.
I hope you find what works for you soon. Meanwhile, be gentle with yours and eest when needed.
Good luck & take care!
~Barbara