Multiple Sclerosis: HELP ON THE WAY?
A recent study into a new treatment for multiple sclerosis could provide one of the most exciting discoveries in the ongoing battle against the disease.
BY:ERIC FEIL
A recent study into a new treatment for multiple sclerosis could provide one of the most exciting discoveries in the ongoing battle against the disease. Phase I and II trials showed that Fingolimod—which works by trapping white blood cells in the lymphoid system so they cannot enter the bloodstream and, hence, cannot get into the central nervous system—resulted in a better than 50 percent relapse reduction in patients with relapsing MS.
"So far it shows a strong therapeutic effect and seems safe," says John Richert, MD, vice president of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society's Research and Clinical Programs. "The key issue is that this is an oral pill, which people with MS have been waiting for. For patients and caregivers, that would make things a lot easier."
Although the drug must go through Phase III testing and may not be on the market for three to four years, Dr. Richert is hopeful. "Not all drugs look so good in Phase II," he says. "There is plenty of room for optimism."