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Abstract

Background and purpose:
There is still no curative treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS), but during the last 20 years eight different disease-modifying compounds have been approved for relapsing−remitting MS (RRMS).

Methods:
A literature search was conducted on published randomized controlled phase III trials indexed in PubMed on the approved medications until 21 May 2015.

Results:
In this review the mode of action, documented treatment effects and side effects of the approved MS therapies are briefly discussed.

Conclusions:
Based on current knowledge of risk−benefit of the approved MS medications, including factors influencing adherence, it is suggested that oral treatment with Tecfidera (dimethyl fumarate) or Aubagio (teriflunomide) should be preferred as a starting therapy amongst the first-line preparations for de novo RRMS. In the case of breakthrough disease on first-line therapy, or rapidly evolving severe RRMS, second-line therapy with Tysabri (natalizumab), Gilenya (fingolimod) or Campath (alemtuzumab) should be chosen based on careful risk−benefit stratification.

Labels: Aubagio, Study, Tecfidera, Tysabri