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Treatment options for multiple sclerosis: current and emerging therapies
Kristen M Gawronski1, Michelle M Rainka, Malti J Patel
1Department of Pharmacy Practice, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA.
Pharmacotherapy
|August 28, 2010
Summary
New oral medications show promise for multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment, potentially improving patient adherence and reducing disability. These advancements offer a new frontier in managing this chronic autoimmune central nervous system disease.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease targeting the central nervous system's myelin sheath.
- Current first-line treatments for MS are exclusively parenteral.
- Lifelong disease-modifying therapy is essential for managing MS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review emerging disease-modifying therapies for multiple sclerosis.
- To highlight the potential of new oral agents in MS treatment.
- To discuss the implications of novel therapies on patient compliance and outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical trial data for eight disease-modifying agents in phases II and III.
- Categorization of agents into immunomodulators and monoclonal antibodies.
- Analysis of the potential benefits of oral formulations.
Main Results:
- Eight drugs (cladribine, fingolimod, laquinimod, teriflunomide, dimethyl fumarate, alemtuzumab, daclizumab, rituximab) have advanced in clinical trials.
- Four of these agents are oral formulations.
- These novel therapies demonstrate promise as first-line treatments for MS.
Conclusions:
- The development of oral disease-modifying drugs represents a significant advancement in multiple sclerosis management.
- Increased patient compliance is anticipated with oral formulations.
- New therapies may lead to sustained symptom-free periods and reduced disability in MS patients.
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