Multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment has advanced significantly over the past few decades, transforming what was once a condition with very limited options into one where many people can better manage symptoms and slow disease progression.
However, while current treatments have improved outcomes for many patients, they are not a cure. Challenges remain, and there is a continued need for research to develop safer, more effective therapies.
What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?
MS is a chronic neurological condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve fibres, known as myelin. This can disrupt communication between the brain and the rest of the body, leading to a wide range of symptoms including fatigue, mobility issues, vision problems, and cognitive difficulties. Over 150,000 people live with the condition in the UK1.
Main Treatments for MS
Today, treatment options generally fall into three categories: managing relapses, managing symptoms, and disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). DMTs are designed to reduce the frequency and severity of MS relapses and help slow MS disease progression. They include injectable medications, oral treatments, and infusion therapies often based on monoclonal antibodies.
DMTs for Multiple Sclerosis
For many people living with relapsing forms of MS, DMTs have been life changing. One survey of MS patients reported that 60% of them were using DMTs2. They can help reduce inflammation in the central nervous system and lower the risk of new lesions (scarring) developing in the brain and spinal cord. As a result, many patients can maintain a better quality of life for longer than was previously possible.
The Drawbacks of Existing Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Treatments
Despite these advances, current MS treatments have important limitations.
One of the biggest challenges is that many treatments are only partially effective. While they may reduce disease activity, they often cannot completely prevent relapses or stop disability progression. This is particularly true for people with progressive forms of MS, where treatment options remain more limited.
Side Effects of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Medication
Side effects are another concern. Depending on the medication, patients may experience flu-like symptoms, gastrointestinal problems, headaches, fatigue, or injection-site reactions. One study into current MS treatments found that three quarters of patients experienced an adverse drug reaction during treatment3.
Some of the more potent therapies can also suppress the immune system, increasing the risk of infections and other serious complications. Regular monitoring through blood tests, scans, or hospital appointments is often required to ensure treatments remain safe and effective.
In addition, treatment responses vary considerably between individuals. An MS therapy that works well for one person may be less effective for another, making it challenging to identify the most appropriate treatment plan. Some patients may need to switch therapies multiple times throughout their treatment journey.
New Treatments for Multiple Sclerosis
Although current therapies can help control MS, they cannot repair existing nerve damage or offer a cure, addressing some of the unmet needs that existing treatments cannot currently fulfil.
Clinical trials play a crucial role in this process. By evaluating the safety and effectiveness of potential new therapies, clinical research helps move promising discoveries from the laboratory into real-world treatment options. Every breakthrough in MS treatment has been made possible through clinical trials, and ongoing studies continue to offer hope for better, safer, and more targeted therapies in the future.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Clinical Trials
MAC Clinical Research is looking for people who would like to take part in a clinical trial researching a potential new treatment for Multiple Sclerosis. If you are aged 18-65 and living with MS, you may be eligible to take part. For more information, please visit MAC Clinical Research’s MS webpage.
Doctor Chloe Theodorou, Clinical Research Physician at MAC Clinical Research said: “People who take part in clinical trials make a vital contribution to developing new treatments and improving our understanding of conditions such as MS. Their involvement helps us find out whether potential therapies are safe and effective, bringing us closer to better treatment options for the future.”
If eligible, you may be compensated for your time and commitment plus reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed or transport provided.
1 MS Society – MS in the UK
2 My MS Team – Taking DMTs for MS: What People With MS Say About Treatment
3 Basic and Clinical Neuroscience – Adverse Drug Reactions of Multiple Sclerosis Disease-modifying Drugs
