Posted by Nadezda on August 19, 2008, at 11:49:48
In reply to Re: The stakes are too high. » SLS, posted by Marty on August 19, 2008, at 11:29:18
I also agree with Scott. I know it's hard to remain optimistic after long trials of several drugs, with the prospect of other failed trials ahead, and no real promise of any particular result. But it's worth it to go ahead with the best possible treatments. There simply is no other way, no other hope at the moment. If there were one magic pill, or a formula for knowing which pill would help which person, that would be wonderful. Someday perhaps.
But for right now, all we have is the drugs and clinical practice that's there. Most doctors are doing their best; why would they do anything else? Maybe they aren't the most sympathetic; definitely many aren't. But who else can be really even vaguely put our trust in? Alternative medications that haven't been tested and promise great results? That, I fear, will be another blind alley.
And there are studies that show that after experimentation, many, really most, people can find a drug or combination of drugs that works. There are side effects-- which can be a huge problem-- and all the disappointments-- but it's better, finally, if you go through all that and are able to live a substantially better life. The cost is awful, and a drug that works doesn't take that away-- but if you don't give up, you're likely to find a meaningful treatment-- if you don't-- as I said, you have no hope, other than some sort of miraculous period of remission. If you have that, I felicitate you-- but many many people never do.
Nadezda
poster:Nadezda
thread:847169
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20080814/msgs/847205.html