Multiple Sclerosis Treatment: An Overview
At this time, there is no cure for
multiple sclerosis, but research continues to improve the understanding and treatment of this disease.
Current treatments for multiple sclerosis focus on controlling the immune system and managing the symptoms. It is important for people to work with their healthcare providers to find the best approach to address
multiple sclerosis symptoms, such as:
- Medications
- Physical or occupational therapy
- Emotional support.
Medications Used in the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis
Several medications are available as part of a multiple sclerosis treatment plan.
The different categories of medications are discussed in the following paragraphs.
Medications That Manage Exacerbations
MS exacerbations (flare-ups) are usually accompanied by inflammation and breakdown of the myelin in the central nervous system. If your symptoms are severe, high doses of steroids, such as Solu-Medrol
®, may be given through an IV to reduce the swelling and inflammation that contribute to demyelination.
Medications That Modify the Disease
A number of newer drugs have been shown to modify the course of multiple sclerosis. These medications work by altering or suppressing the activity of your immune system. A group of drugs called "beta interferons" mimic a protein that occurs naturally in your body. They appear to block certain white blood cells from attacking the myelin covering of the nerves. They also seem to stop other white blood cells, called T cells, from releasing cytokines -- which are chemicals that encourage inflammation and attract other immune cells to the area.
These medications include:
While they don't cure the disease, beta interferons have been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of MS attacks by about 25 percent or more, depending on the dose. These drugs may also reduce the amount of scar tissue that develops in the brain by 70 to 80 percent. With less damage occurring in the central nervous system, the progression of multiple sclerosis symptoms is slowed, possibly reducing the level of disability you may face in the future.
Other medications used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis include
Copaxone®, a small protein that resembles a protein found in myelin. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Copaxone for the treatment of relapsing-remitting MS. Copaxone has few side effects, and studies indicate that the agent can reduce the relapse rate by almost one-third.
An immunosuppressant medication, Novantrone® (mitoxantrone), is approved by the FDA for the treatment of advanced or chronic MS.
