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Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is a rare autoimmune disease that affects the neuromuscular junction, leading to muscle weakness and fatigue. MG is estimated to affect approximately 20 per 100,000 people worldwide, and it can affect people of any age, gender, or ethnic group. MG symptoms vary in severity and can affect any muscle group in the body. However, the most affected muscles are those that control eye and eyelid movement, facial expression, chewing, swallowing, and breathing.
MG symptoms include drooping eyelids, double vision, difficulty chewing or swallowing, weakness in the arms or legs, and respiratory problems. These symptoms can be mild initially, but they can worsen over time and lead to life-threatening respiratory failure.
The cause of MG is still unknown, but it is thought to be related to an immune system malfunction, which produces antibodies that attack the acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that transmits nerve impulses to the muscles. When the acetylcholine receptors are damaged or destroyed, the muscles cannot receive the nerve impulses, leading to muscle weakness and fatigue.
While there is no cure for MG, several treatment options are available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The frequency of infusions varies depending on the severity of symptoms and individual response to treatment. Patients usually start to see improvement within 4 weeks. There are a few medications that have shown to be effective include IVIg, Soliris, Ultomiris, and Vyvgart.
Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) is a blood product made from the plasma of healthy donors and contains high levels of immunoglobulins, which are antibodies that help the immune system fight infections and diseases. IVIg therapy blocks the antibodies that attack the acetylcholine receptors, reducing the severity of MG symptoms.
Soliris (eculizumab) is a monoclonal antibody that blocks the activation of the complement system, a part of the immune system that can cause inflammation and tissue damage. Soliris is approved for treating MG in adults who have anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies and have not responded to other therapies.
Ultomiris (ravulizumab) is a monoclonal antibody that inhibits the activation of the complement system by binding to the C5 protein. Ultomiris is approved for treating MG in adults who have anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies and have not responded to other therapies.
Vyvgart (efgartigimod) is a that targets the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn), which is responsible for recycling immunoglobulins in the body. By targeting FcRn, Vyvgart increases the clearance of the antibodies that attack the acetylcholine receptors, reducing the severity of MG symptoms. Vyvgart is approved for treating MG in adults with anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies.
The above mentioned therapies are generally well-tolerated and have shown to help patients manage symptoms and improve their quality of life. There are always side effects, such as headache, fever, nausea, and allergic reactions. It is essential to discuss the potential benefits and risks of any therapy with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.to find the best solution for you.
Sage Infusion Can Help
At Sage Infusion, we provide expert patient-centered infusion care in a contemporary boutique environment. Sage Infusion has experience working with MG patients and administering either IVIg, Soliris, Ultomiris, or Vyvgart per your doctor’s request.
Sage also eases your medical burdens by handling the care coordination process, including insurance authorization and patient progress updates. Our flexible scheduling meets our patient’s needs with extended hours. Day, night, and weekend appointments are available. Our physician assistants and nurse practitioners follow the National Infusion Center Association guidelines and our proprietary clinical protocols. Sage Infusion offers a variety of comforting amenities, and patients can choose to receive treatment in the open lounge or private room.
With locations in The Villages – Lake Sumter, Fort Myers, Clearwater, Orlando, Sarasota, and Tampa. Sage Infusion offers the best infusion and administration facilities in the Sunshine State. At Sage Infusion, we’ve reimagined patient care. From a quick start, to upfront pricing and financial assistance to compassionate care by our clinical experts in a serene environment, you will experience infusion therapy like never before.
352-565-5553
sageinfusion.com/swwellness
910 Old Camp Road, Suite 196
The Villages, FL 32162
