Hyperbaric-oxygen treatment of multiple sclerosis. A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Hyperbaric Medicine

Background:

• Uncontrolled studies suggest hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) may benefit multiple sclerosis (MS).
• The efficacy of HBO for advanced chronic MS requires rigorous investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on patients with advanced chronic multiple sclerosis.
• To compare outcomes between patients receiving HBO and a placebo.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 40 patients with advanced chronic MS.
• Patients were divided into two groups: one received pure oxygen (experimental), the other a 10% oxygen/90% nitrogen mixture (placebo).
• Both groups received 20 daily 90-minute exposures at 2 atmospheres absolute.

Main Results:

• Objective improvement was observed in 12/17 patients receiving HBO versus 1/20 in the placebo group (P < 0.0001).
• Improvements were transient in 7 patients and long-lasting in 5 patients treated with HBO.
• At one-year follow-up, 12% of the HBO group showed deterioration compared to 55% in the placebo group (P < 0.0008).
• Minor, reversible side effects included ear problems and myopia.

Conclusions:

• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy demonstrates a positive, albeit transient, effect on advanced multiple sclerosis.
• The therapy shows potential for improving symptoms and slowing deterioration in MS patients.
• Further long-term studies are necessary to establish general recommendations for HBO in MS treatment.