A Step in the Right Direction

Kenny is a hardworking, family man. He is a devoted husband and father. He has always loved cooking and spending lots of time outdoors. In late 2016 – early 2017, Kenny woke up experiencing sudden vision loss, as well as difficulty walking, weakness, numbness and tingling in both legs. He was soon diagnosed with a Demyelinating disease of the Central Nervous System, which was later diagnosed to more specifically include Neuromyelitis Optica and MOG (Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein) Antibody Disease.

MOGAD is a neurological, immune-mediated demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system that causes inflammation and potential damage in the optic nerve, spinal cord, brain and/or brainstem. In Kennys’ case, his mobility and sight were most affected.

Kenny was immediately started on high dose steroids and an immunosuppressant, Cellcept. Although these medications did help manage his symptoms, they came at the cost of many adverse reactions consisting of extremity swelling, headaches, dizziness, and stomach issues.

Kenny’s Neurologist then decided to go with a different approach in which he was weaned off the high dose steroids and immunosuppressant and then started on Gamunex.

Gamunex is a brand name for a medication known as intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). It is used primarily to treat a variety of immune system disorders by providing patients with antibodies that they might be lacking. These antibodies help to fight infections and modulate immune responses. Gamunex is often prescribed for conditions such as:

It can help to reduce the frequency of infections and alleviate symptoms associated with these conditions. The medication is administered via an intravenous infusion and is often weight based for dosing. More information regarding this medication is available here.

Treating any Demyelinating condition can be difficult. It can take months—or even years—to find the right combination of treatment options. Your treatment plan may depend on things like your age, your lifestyle, and any other health conditions you have.

Kenny has been on Gamunex infusions for over 1 year now. He reports “feeling healthier, like he is faster and has a quicker response time after infusions.” He states that he “feels more tired and sluggish when his infusions are wearing off.” Gamunex has been great for preventing any symptom flares without any of the tough side effects of the other treatment options.

“Wonderful staff! From day one Sage Infusion treats you like family.” Kenny has been extremely pleased with all of the clinical and intake staff he has grown to know and love. From beginning to end, Sage Infusion is there to help you through your journey—finances, insurance or clinical advice.