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Understanding My Symptoms
Asking Questions, Seeking Solutions

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You have had unexplained symptoms. Your doctor says it could be one of a number of things. One possibility is Multiple Sclerosis (MS). You probably have many questions and concerns. Now, more than ever, it is important for you to learn more.

What is Multiple Sclerosis? top

Every nerve in your body is covered by a substance called myelin (my-eh-lin). Myelin helps to protect your nerves and carries signals to every part of your body. In MS, this myelin covering becomes swollen and damaged. The result is scarring, or sclerosis (skle-ro-sis). This nerve scarring can slow or prevent the delivery of nerve messages, affecting muscle coordination, strength, sensation, and vision.

What is Possible MS? top

Most people who have been diagnosed with MS have a period of uncertainty after the first appearance of symptoms. The symptom(s) you are experiencing may suggest a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis, but this diagnosis has not yet been confirmed. It can be very difficult to wait until a second episode occurs before seeking a firm diagnosis and exploring treatment options.

What are Some Signs of Multiple Sclerosis? top

Everyone experiences symptoms a little differently. However, some common signs of MS include:

  • Double vision or blurring of vision
  • Tingling or pain in parts of your body
  • Electric-shock sensations with certain head movements
  • Tremors, lack of coordination or balance
  • Extreme lack of energy
  • Dizziness
  • Numbness or weakness in arms or legs

Learn More About the TOPIC study. top

The TOPIC study is testing an oral investigational medication versus placebo for those at high risk of developing MS. Medical research has shown that such people may benefit by being treated with medication earlier rather than waiting for a definitive diagnosis of MS.

Why Consider a Clinical Trial? top

The injection and infusion medications currently approved for the treatment of MS were developed through the clinical research process. This process allows researchers to gather valuable information on the safety and effectiveness of investigational medications. By participating in a clinical trial, you will receive:

  • Ongoing study-related monitoring by a team of medical professionals
  • Extensive screening tests including ongoing MRI exams
  • All study-related visits and tests provided at no cost.

Study Centres Enrolling Patients
in the TOPIC Study: top

Below is a list of study centres that are currently enrolling patients. Please contact the study centre nearest you to see if you qualify for the TOPIC study.

Active Sites

  • Geelong Hospital
    Department of Neuroscience
    Level 2, Kardinia House
    Bellerine Street
    GEELONG VIC 3220
    Investigator: Dr. Caron Chapman
    Study Co-ordinator: Sharryn Savickas
    Phone: 03 5226 7950
  • Royal Hobart Hospital
    Department of Neurology
    Liverpool Street
    HOBART Tasmania 7000
    Investigator: Assoc Prof. Bruce Taylor
    Study Co-ordinator: Sue McGregor
    Phone: 03 6220 1111
  • Austin Hospital
    Austin Health
    Occupational Therapy Building
    145 Studley Road
    HEIDELBERG VIC 3084
    Investigator: Prof. Richard Macdonell
    Study Co-ordinator: Elise Heriot
    Phone: 03 9496 3705
  • Flinders Medical Centre
    Neurology Department
    Flinders Drive
    Bedford, 5042
    Bedford SA 5042
    Investigator: Dr. Mark Slee
    Study Co-ordinator: Marie Toubia
    Phone: 08 8204 4971
  • Gold Coast Hospital
    School of Medicine
    Griffith University
    Little High St, QLD 4222
    Little High St QLD 4222
    Investigator: Prof. Simon Broadley
    Study Co-ordinator: Susan Freeman
    Phone: 07 5678 0750

Resources

To learn more about MS, visit the links below:

MS Australia

www.mssociety.org.au

Supporting and helping people with multiple sclerosis (MS) since 1956. Through an extensive network of centres, branches, support groups and health services, MS Australia - ACT/NSW/VIC provides specialist programs to people with MS, their families, carers, friends and health care professionals.

OZ MS

www.ozms.com.au/

An online forum for those with MS, including local resources and information.