Introduction to Treatments for Multiple Sclerosis

Please visit
MSAA’s Ultimate MS Treatment Guide
to learn about and compare all of the FDA-approved MS treatments.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable disorder that can cause a variety of symptoms, which for many, can flare-up and then subside over the course of days, months, or even years. Most individuals are initially diagnosed with one of the relapsing forms of MS, causing these flare-ups. A much smaller percentage of individuals begin with one of the progressive forms, exhibiting a more steady progression of symptoms. For details on types of MS, please visit Types of Multiple Sclerosis | MSAA.

The treatments for multiple sclerosis (MS) are divided into three main categories:

A Quick Overview of Long-Term Treatments for MS

  • Although initially approved only for the treatment of relapsing forms of MS in adults, disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) are now available for progressive forms as well as for clinically isolated syndrome (CIS), and for pediatric MS.
  • DMTs were developed to slow disease activity. They work by reducing the number and severity of relapses, reducing areas of inflammation within the central nervous system (CNS) as seen on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, and delaying disease progression and/or disability.
  • Depending on the specific DMT prescribed, the medication may be given via self-injection, intravenous (IV) infusion, or by oral administration.
  • When appropriate, most neurologists recommend starting a DMT as soon as possible after diagnosis.

Treating & Managing Multiple Sclerosis
For more information about disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for MS and slowing disease activity, please see Long-Term Treatments for MS. For specific information on the individual DMTs approved for the long-term treatment of MS, please visit MSAA’s Ultimate MS Treatment Guide [link]. This comprehensive online tool enables individuals to learn about and compare the different medications, while also viewing videos of both MS specialists and patient advocates.

A Quick Overview of Treating MS Relapses

  • Treating relapses helps to control the sudden flare-up of symptoms, also referred to as exacerbations or attacks.
  • Relapses usually range in length from a few days to a few months before subsiding.
  • While treatments may shorten the length of the relapse and lessen its severity, treating a relapse does not appear to affect the long-term progression of the disease or its symptoms – although studies continue to evaluate the long-term outcomes of treating relapses.
  • The first line of treatment for moderate to severe relapses is typically a course of high-dose steroids given intravenously (IV) over a period of three to five days. As an alternative to IV steroids, treatment for a moderate to severe relapse also includes an equivalent, high-dose, oral regimen of steroids.
  • Mild relapses not impacting one’s ability to perform daily activities are often treated using symptom-management medications and strategies, reserving steroid treatments for more significant relapses.

For more information about relapses and how they are treated, please see Treating MS Relapses.

A Quick Overview of Treating the Symptoms of MS

  • Symptom management is another important area in the overall treatment of MS. Symptoms vary greatly from one individual to another, and each symptom needs to be addressed by a healthcare professional.
  • Common symptoms range from fatigue, weakness, and reduced mobility, to visual problems, numbness, and bladder issues. For a full list of common symptoms, please visit MSAA’s Symptom Listing [link].
  • In addition to medications prescribed for a specific symptom, other treatment therapies – such as rehabilitation, counseling, and exercise, for example – may be recommended by the healthcare team to increase the effectiveness of managing certain symptoms.
  • Most of the medications used to treat symptoms are available by prescription only, but even with over-the-counter medications, those considering making a change to their present regimen should consult a physician.
  • Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant need to discuss any medications they are taking and any new medications they are considering with their doctor.

For more information about the symptoms of MS and how they are managed, please visit Treating the Symptoms of MS

Please note that MSAA does not endorse or recommend any specific drug or treatment. Individuals are advised to consult with a physician about the potential benefits and risks of the different treatment therapies.