This Drug Could Help MS Victims... But They Can't Get It
SIX months ago, multiple sclerosis sufferer Neil Lucas was finding it increasingly difficult to cope with everyday life. He had problems walking and writing and had little energy.
Then the 40-year-old began to take a drug, normally used to treat heroin addiction, which is claimed can alleviate the symptoms of MS. He says he saw an improvement within days. "It's not a cure, but it has helped my well-being and my stability," he said. "My walking was deteriorating and it brought me back from that. If you put me on a six-mile hike I'd have a bit of an issue, but at least I can get on with life."
Lucas is one of a number of MS patients convinced that the drug naltrexone, in low doses, is helping their condition. Internet websites and chat rooms are packed with anecdotal evidence of its benefits.
The Potential Benefits of Naltrexone
Yet the drug has not been licensed for use in MS – essential if it was to be available on the NHS – and only a limited number of GPs are willing to prescribe it privately in the UK. The large drug firms are not willing to pay the substantial cost of essential clinical trials as they would not have the exclusive rights to market it as an MS treatment, as the patent on the drug has expired.
Some experts believe the drug could help sufferers for a fraction of the £10,000 per patient spent every year on beta interferon, a drug available on the NHS that is used to reduce MS attacks.
Linda Elsegood, diagnosed with MS at the age of 44, was so ill two years ago she could barely make it to her daughter's wedding. In just a few weeks, she claims she was "given her life back" by using the drug. She felt so strongly about it that she launched a charity, the LDN Research Trust, to try to get trials up and running and help others to get access to low-dose naltrexone (LDN).
Elsegood said she saw her symptoms improve within three weeks of beginning to take LDN in 2003.
"When my daughter got married my health was such that I couldn't really stand for very long, I had no energy, I was in bed – I was a complete mess. I feel like I have been given my life back. I'm not saying it is going to work for everyone, but those that would like to try it should be allowed to without the fight."
Increasing Interest in Naltrexone
The use of naltrexone in low doses was first tried in the mid-1980s by Dr Bernard Bihari, a New York-based medic who claims it is useful in a wide range of autoimmune disorders, including MS. Interest in the drug has been increasing in the last decade, and earlier this year the first conference on LDN was held in New York.
One medic who backs it is Dr Bob Lawrence, who supplies around 400 UK patients with LDN through his private company based in Wales.
"I no longer need to advertise as people simply pass on the information," he said. "Many GPs, once they see that their patients get better on LDN, are really quite enthusiastic in promoting this method and in giving it to their patients."
The dose used to treat MS patients is just a fraction of that which has been tested for use in heroin patients, at under 5mg compared with 50mg. The cost of LDN to Lawrence's patients is around £25 a month, but he claimed that if the drug was produced in bulk for a mass market, it could drop to as little as 50p a month. That could mean huge savings for the NHS, as it costs more than £10,000 a year for a single patient on beta interferon. Yet Lawrence claimed the cheap price of the drug was part of the reason why there is a lack of interest by pharmaceutical companies in investing in clinical trials on LDN. He also pointed to the fact the patent on the drug has now expired.
"As soon as they do a trial, all the other companies capable of producing naltrexone are going to jump on the bandwagon and, without any of the liability and penalty of paying for the research, can simply produce a copy of LDN," Lawrence explained.
The Need for Clinical Trials
In Scotland, which has the highest incidence of MS in the world, Dr Tom Gilhooly has been prescribing LDN privately for a year after researching it following a request from a patient. The Glasgow GP agreed that a lack of potential profits was a major factor in the lack of studies on its potential benefits in treating MS.
"I think we will find out significant amounts about MS from studying LDN," he said. "But we're never going to find the answers from the drug companies as they're going to make no money from it, so why should they invest in research and development?"
However, Gilhooly cautioned against viewing LDN as a "wonder drug" and said his patients had experienced mixed results from it.
"There have been people who have got worse on it, there have been people it has done nothing for," he said. "But it is a very interesting, variable response and I think this is where we really need trials, as there is something happening for quite a lot of people."
Mark Hazelwood, director of the Multiple Sclerosis Society Scotland, said the organisation was aware of anecdotal reports of the benefits of LDN.
"It is clear the next step should be a trial," he said. "It is a way of demonstrating whether something has a positive effect, and equally it is a way of identifying potential side effects and negative effects as well, which is important."
But he said the expense of funding a clinical trial meant the drug would have to be a "reasonable bet".
"There is a difficulty with LDN in as much as there isn't a strong scientific case for thinking it will be of benefit to people with MS," he said. "It goes against the current understanding of what's going on in MS and how to deal with it. That doesn't mean to say it is absolutely wrong, but it does make it harder to justify whatever the funder is putting money into it."
The Connection Between Love and Poetry
Poetry has long been associated with love, and for good reason. The two go hand in hand, complementing and enhancing each other in unique ways. Love, with its depth of emotion and passion, is captured and expressed beautifully through the art of poetry.
Inspiration and Emotion
Love provides poets with a deep well of inspiration. The intense emotions that come with love - joy, longing, heartache, desire - are rich material for crafting verses. It allows poets to explore the complexities of human relationships and delve into the depths of the human heart.
Through poetry, the experience of love is immortalized. Poets can capture a moment of love, whether it be the euphoria of new love or the pain of a lost love, and weave it into words that resonate with readers. Love poetry has the power to transport readers to the realm of emotions and connect them to their own experiences and feelings.
The Beauty of Language and Symbolism
Poetry, with its focus on language and imagery, can elevate the expression of love. Poets use words to create vivid images and evoke powerful emotions, giving love a tangible form and presence. Metaphors, similes, and other literary devices are employed to convey the depth and nuances of love.
The symbolism in love poetry adds an extra layer of meaning. Poets often draw upon nature, seasons, and other universal symbols to represent different aspects of love. These symbols help to convey abstract emotions and concepts in a way that is relatable and understandable.
A Timeless Connection
Love and poetry have been intertwined throughout history. Love poems from ancient civilizations to modern times continue to resonate with readers, showing that the power of love and the art of poetry are timeless.
Whether it is the sonnets of Shakespeare or the haikus of Basho, love poetry remains a beloved and enduring genre. It speaks to the universal human experience of love, transcending time and culture.
In conclusion, love and poetry are natural partners. Love provides the inspiration, emotion, and depth that poets seek to express, while poetry allows love to be immortalized and cherished. The connection between love and poetry is a testament to the power of both art forms in capturing the essence of the human experience.
Hotels: A Home Away from Home
Hotels have long been a popular choice for travelers. Whether on vacation or business trips, hotels offer a comfortable and convenient place to stay. With a wide range of amenities and services, they provide a home away from home for travelers.
Comfort and Convenience
One of the main advantages of staying in a hotel is the comfort it provides. Hotels are designed to offer a relaxing environment, with comfortable beds, clean rooms, and amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and room service. Travelers can unwind after a long day of activities and rest in a comfortable and familiar space.
In addition to comfort, hotels offer convenience. They are centrally located, making it easy for travelers to access popular attractions, restaurants, and business districts. Many hotels also provide shuttle services or are located near public transportation, making it convenient for guests to explore the surrounding areas.
Range of Amenities
Hotels offer a wide range of amenities that cater to the needs and preferences of different travelers. From luxury hotels with spas and fine dining restaurants to budget hotels with basic facilities, there is something for every budget and taste.
Common amenities found in hotels include fitness centers, swimming pools, restaurants, bars, and conference facilities. These amenities provide guests with the convenience of having everything they need under one roof.
Professional Service
Hotels pride themselves on providing excellent customer service. Staff members are trained to be friendly, helpful, and attentive to guests' needs. Whether it is providing local recommendations, arranging transportation, or accommodating special requests, hotel staff strive to ensure a pleasant and hassle-free stay for guests.
For travelers who may be unfamiliar with the area, the assistance and guidance provided by hotel staff can be invaluable. They can offer insights into local attractions, events, and customs, helping guests make the most of their stay.
Creating Memorable Experiences
Staying in a hotel can also enhance the overall travel experience. Many hotels are known for their unique architecture, historical significance, or stunning views. These distinctive features contribute to a memorable stay, creating a sense of place and immersing guests in the local culture.
In conclusion, hotels offer comfort, convenience, and a range of amenities that make them an ideal choice for travelers. From luxury resorts to budget accommodations, hotels cater to different preferences and budgets. By providing professional service and creating memorable experiences, hotels strive to make every guest feel at home.