November 2009 - Bulletin 26

Progress in basic research and the results of many clinical trials of new drugs appear to be heralding a new era in the treatment of MS...

"Smoking is also a risk factor for a second attack of MS after a first episode of the disease."

"In clinical trials, priority is given to oral treatments"

May 2009 - Bulletin 25

The aim of most of clinical trials currently running is to replace β interferon (IFN β) and copaxone injections with drugs that can be administered by mouth, which would be more comfortable for the patients. This includes only the recurrent remittent forms of multiple sclerosis.

"It appears useful to give vitamin-D supplements to children one of whose parents is affected by MS, given that they are at higher risk of developing the disease."

Fingolimod (FTY720) is a molecule belonging to a new class of immunosuppressors that prevent the cells responsible for the destruction of nerve tissue from migrating from the organs where they have been produced (spleen and lymphoid organs).

The increase in the incidence of multiple sclerosis (MS) among women has given rise to considerable interest in the possible role of gender in determining the frequency and development of the disease.