A multiple sclerosis sufferer who knows he has just months to live is fighting for the right to use a life-extending drug.

Jason Powell (pictured) was granted the right to die at home after threatening his health authority with court action. He was released from hospital after Dyfed Powys Health Authority agreed to pay for round-the-clock nursing care at his Whitland home.

Doctors say he has just months to live but is now challenging the authoritys decision to refuse him £10,000-a-year Beta Interferon treatment.

The drug is thought to slow the progression of disability and reduce the relapse rate in patients with multiple sclerosis.

Before 1995 there were no specialist disease modifying drug treatments available for sufferers. Although it is not regarded as a cure, clinical trials show that Beta Interferon has an effect on the bodys immune system.

Jason, of Bryn Gwenllian, in convinced the drug could give him precious extra months to live but it is understood the health authority is unwilling to prescribe it.

He has asked a Swansea law firm to investigate whether he can challenge the authority under the European Convention on Human Rights. The determination of this 33-year-old man is evident. Three months ago the health authority gave in to his demands to be released from West Wales Hospital, Carmarthen, to be treated in his own home.

The health authority is refusing to be drawn into a public argument over his latest challenge. It says it is unable to comment on individual cases because it would breach patient confidentiality. Its general policy is to follow guidance issued by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence.