Optimizing the Risk-Benefit Therapeutic Equation for Multiple Sclerosis

 Neurologic specialists and their patients understand that multiple sclerosis (MS) is a lifelong, immune-mediated progressive disorder. The early age of onset and the chronic nature of the disease, with accumulation of physical disability, demand a long-term (“lifelong”) management strategy, including use of disease-modifying immunomodulatory therapies (IMTs) and; more recently, careful consideration of newly introduced immunosuppressive agents. Moreover, MS is a serious and costly condition, affecting an estimated 400,000 people in the United States alone, and probably more than 2 million people around the world—including twice as many women as men. Most people experience their first signs or symptoms between the ages of 20 and 40. As a progressive, demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS), affecting the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves, MS is variable in its course and invites myriad interventional approaches aimed at reducing relapses and maintenance of functional status over time. Therapeutic strategies for MS can be complex, because the condition is unpredictable in its disease course and varies in severity. In some individuals, MS is a mild illness, but it can lead to permanent disability in others. Treatments can modify the course of the disease and relieve symptoms. Many treatment options are available and each should be evaluated within the context of landmark trials and scientifically rigorous analysis, with a specific focus on the benefits, side effects, costs, proven track record, and risks of agents that require long-term use.

This complimentary CME educational activity is designed for all neurology-focused physicians, nurses, NPs, academicians, pharmacists, researchers, investigators, and program directors managing, referring, and/or consulting on patients with neurological disorders, with a focus on MS.