Living with multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) can be a challenge. The good news is that immunoglobulin (Ig) therapy can help manage the condition. And we’re also here to help you learn about the condition and Ig therapy.
About MMN
MMN is a rare condition that affects several areas (multifocal). It damages the nerves (neuropathy) that activate movement (motor). When the nerves are damaged, the muscles they should activate become weak.
The first sign of MMN is usually weakness. It usually starts in a specific spot on the arm or hand, like at the wrist or on a finger. Your symptoms depend on where the nerve damage is happening. For example, if it affects your hand(s), you may have a hard time holding things or buttoning your clothes. If it affects your arm(s), you may have trouble eating, writing or typing. One side of the body may be affected differently than the other side. You might have muscle twitching or cramping that you can’t control. Some people get small “dimples” under their skin. These are called fasciculations. Your doctor may send you to a specialist to help diagnose MMN. They may run tests that look at how your nerves send messages to move your muscles.
MMN is a progressive disease. This means it slowly gets worse over time. Eventually, the nerve damage can affect your legs. It’s unknown what causes MMN. But, it seems to be an autoimmune disorder. Autoimmune means that the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy parts of the body. Your immune system makes Igs to attack things like germs that can harm your body. In MMN, your Igs attack certain areas of your nerves. Learn more about how Igs work.
Treating MMN
Ig therapy is the only treatment that is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for MMN. Ig won’t cure MMN, but it often helps improve symptoms and slows down how fast the condition worsens. Over time, Ig therapy can become less effective and you may need higher doses.
Ig therapy for MMN is given intravenously (IV) into your vein. It isn’t clear how Ig therapy helps, but research shows it helps block the immune system from damaging the nerves. For people with MMN, Ig therapy is usually infused every three to four weeks.
Talk to your doctor to learn more about MMN.
CVS Specialty® and Coram® CVS Specialty Infusion Services (Coram) work together to dispense and administer Ig therapy to patients. Choose pickup or contactless delivery of your infusion therapy and supplies to your door. Find out more here.
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