Q I suffer from multiple sclerosis (MS) and have heard about a revolutionary drug that may soon be able to help. I'm not getting my hopes too high as these things are often overhyped, but I am only in my late twenties so I have more time on my side than some.

TY from Liverpool

A This is an exciting time in MS therapy. Research that has just been published shows that the drug alemtuzumab — which was initially developed for the treatment of leukaemia — has significant potential in halting and even reversing the progression of this neurological disorder, which affects 85,000 people in Britain.

The study found that the drug stops MS from advancing in some people. The initial trial results have shown that it may also reverse disability caused by the condition.

Larger trials are needed to confirm these findings and widespread treatment is still some way off but this could well be of benefit to you in the future. For more information visit www.mssociety.org.uk

Q I have acute asthma, which I manage with inhalers. I also have a heart condition, for which I have been prescribed beta blockers. My problem is that I understand this type of medication can be a bad idea for asthmatics. Which beta blockers are most asthma-friendly?

MC from Twickenham

A As a general rule, beta blockers should not be prescribed to asthmatic patients because of the risk of these drugs triggering a severe asthma attack. In cardiac cases such as yours, however, they can be necessary but should be used with extreme caution. You should be taking a cardioselective form, examples of which include bisoprolol, metoprolol, atenolol and nebivolol. My advice is to ensure that your heart condition is regularly assessed so you can take the minimum dose needed to control it. Immediately report any worsening of your asthma to your doctor.

Q I am 32 and weigh 24 stone. My GP says that I will need stomach surgery to make me lose weight. What surgical options do I have and are they dangerous?

PS from High Wycombe

A This type of surgery is called bariatric surgery and there are two types performed in the UK: gastric bypass and gastric banding. Both types lead to an average weight loss of 60-80lb and can be offered to obese patients unable to maintain long-term weight loss by conventional means. The surgery has a mortality rate of 1% but your weight also has serious health risks. These procedures are considered only as a last resort and require you to lose 5-10% of your weight before surgery. For more information visit www.bospa.org.

Write, with your initials and home town, to drknow@sunday-times.co.uk. All questions are answered by a practising doctor

Explore Health

• Expert Advice

• Health Features

• Mental Health

• Alternative Medicine

• Child Health

• Health Club