Introduction
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.
MS is more frequently diagnosed in young adults, although individuals of any age may be diagnosed with this neurological condition. The causes of MS are not yet fully understood. Researchers are increasingly learning more about its etiology as they continue to investigate the potential causes and other factors involved in the development of MS.
The first medication proven to be effective in the long-term treatment of MS received approval by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1993. Since that time, several types of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) have been FDA-approved for relapsing forms of MS. Some DMTs are also used for progressive forms of MS, which are more challenging to treat. More information on these types of MS and treatments is provided later in this booklet.
While these medications do not cure MS, they do work to slow disease activity as well as reduce the severity and frequency of flare-ups. These DMTs may also delay disease progression, delay disability, and increase longevity. In addition, many experimental treatments are currently under investigation for relapsing and progressive forms of MS. The entire MS community looks forward to the development and approval of these new therapies, ultimately providing more treatment choices and potentially moving closer to a cure.