Vaccine Response in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis Receiving Teriflunomide

Area of Science:

• Neuroimmunology
• Vaccinology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients often use disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) that modulate the immune system.
• The efficacy and safety of vaccines, including COVID-19 vaccines, in MS patients on DMTs are a growing concern.
• Understanding vaccine response in this population is crucial for managing MS and preventing infectious diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing data on vaccine responses in multiple sclerosis patients undergoing DMT treatment.
• To specifically examine the impact of teriflunomide on vaccine efficacy and safety.
• To provide an overview of COVID-19 vaccines and current recommendations for MS patients.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of vaccination studies in patients with multiple sclerosis.
• Analysis of data focusing on teriflunomide and its effect on vaccine response.
• Inclusion of evidence from studies on other pathogens and emerging data on COVID-19 vaccines.

Main Results:

• Teriflunomide shows minimal influence on the response to the seasonal influenza vaccine in MS patients.
• Evidence for other DMTs (e.g., fingolimod, glatiramer acetate) is mixed, with some studies indicating no effect and others suggesting reduced vaccine efficacy.
• No significant safety concerns have been reported in vaccine studies involving MS patients on DMTs.

Conclusions:

• Current guidance recommends MS patients continue DMTs during COVID-19 vaccination.
• Adjusting the timing of certain DMT doses may potentially enhance vaccine response.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex interactions between DMTs and vaccine efficacy in MS.