Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 29, 2026
11:35
The Multiple Sclerosis Performance Test (MSPT): An iPad-Based Disability Assessment Tool
Published on: June 30, 2014
Assessing cost-effectiveness in the management of multiple sclerosis
Ceri J Phillips1, Ioan Humphreys
1Institute for Health Research, School of Health Science, Swansea University, Swansea, Wales, UK.
Clinicoeconomics and Outcomes Research : CEOR
|September 22, 2011
Summary
This review examines the cost-effectiveness of multiple sclerosis (MS) treatments, including older disease-modifying drugs (DMDs) and newer agents. It highlights ongoing debates regarding treatment efficacy and the challenges in comparing interventions for MS.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacoeconomics
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a leading cause of neurological disability in adults.
- Prevalence is approximately 30 per 100,000, with women being more susceptible.
- Disease onset typically occurs between 20-40 years, leading to significant long-term disability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To update a previous review on the cost-effectiveness of disease-modifying drugs (DMDs) for multiple sclerosis.
- To include newer MS therapies like mitoxantrone hydrochloride and natalizumab alongside established treatments such as interferons and glatiramer acetate.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and cost-effectiveness analysis of available literature.
- Comparison of older DMDs (interferons, glatiramer acetate) with newer agents (mitoxantrone, natalizumab).
Main Results:
- Newer MS therapies offer potential for improved outcomes, including reduced relapses and delayed progression.
- Significant challenges and doubts persist regarding the actual effectiveness of these treatments.
- Estimating the relative cost-effectiveness of diverse MS interventions remains complex.
Conclusions:
- The evolving landscape of MS treatments necessitates updated cost-effectiveness analyses.
- Further research is needed to clarify the efficacy and economic value of emerging therapies for multiple sclerosis.
- Addressing uncertainties in treatment effectiveness is crucial for informed clinical and policy decisions in MS management.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Multiple Sclerosis l: Introduction
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS) that affects the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. It is an inflammatory demyelinating disorder and a leading cause of neurological disability in young adults.EpidemiologyMS commonly begins between 20 and 40 years of age and is twice as common in women. Its exact cause remains unclear, but genetic susceptibility contributes, with higher risk in first-degree relatives and identical twins. A greater...
01:21Rheumatic Heart Disease III: Medical Management
Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) management can be divided into two main strategies: prevention and long-term management.Primary PreventionPrimary prevention focuses on timely diagnosis and management of group A streptococcal pharyngitis to prevent acute rheumatic fever. The most widely used antibiotic for treating this condition is intramuscular benzathine penicillin G.Acute Rheumatic Fever TreatmentThe primary treatment goal for a patient diagnosed with acute rheumatic fever is to suppress the...
01:26Atherosclerosis III: Management
Management of atherosclerosis involves an integrated strategy encompassing pharmacological treatment, surgical interventions, lifestyle changes, and nutrition therapy to address the multifactorial nature of the disease.Pharmacological TherapyA cornerstone of atherosclerosis management is the use of pharmacological agents. Statins, such as atorvastatin, are pivotal in inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme that catalyzes an initial step in cholesterol synthesis in the liver. This reduction in...