Innovative Therapies Redefine Treatment Goals in Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

The treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) is becoming more complex, especially with the expanding number of available therapies for relapsing forms of MS. Greater understanding of the degenerative aspects of MS pathogenesis is redefining treatment goals and creating new treatment strategies. The existing immunomodulation drugs (disease-modifying therapies, DMTs) used in MS treatment have shown only partial benefits in controlling disease progression, primarily by reducing the inflammation component. However, new therapies for MS have been shown to be effective in delaying disease progression by protecting against brain atrophy, which is considered the most important preindicator of future patient disability. The favorable effect on reducing brain atrophy suggests the potential neuroprotective or even neuroregenerative effects of new treatments, marking progress in the treatment of MS.

Keywords

• Multiple sclerosis – therapy
• Multiple sclerosis, relapsing-remitting – drug therapy
• Immunosuppressive agents – therapeutic use
• Treatment outcome