MS Drug Hope

January 21st 2010

A new drug for multiple sclerosis is set to "change the lives" of people with the condition, British researchers announced last night.

Doctors announced the results of a two year study of Cladribine, which it is hoped will be the first tablet treatment for MS, replacing the need for injections.

They said it goes "a long way" to reducing the side effects of existing therapies whilst reducing relapses and deterioration of patients.

Some 1,300 patients took part in the research, reported in the New England Journal of Medicine. They were monitored with MRI scans.

The drug works by suppressing the immune system to prevent attacks on the brain.

Research Professor Gavin Giovanonni, of the Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, said that it was not yet known if there were long-term risks from the treatment.

He said: "The introduction of an oral therapy, particularly one that has no short term side effects and is as easy to use as oral Cladribine, will have a major impact on the treatment of MS.

"However, the use of this drug as a first line therapy will have to be weighed up against the potential long term risks which have yet to be defined."

The findings were welcomed by the UK MS Society.

Biomedical research manager Dr Doug Brown said it was "great news".

He said: "It signifies a shifting tide in the treatment of the condition.

"Availability of oral therapies will give people greater choice and being able to take a tablet instead of unpleasant injections will come as welcome relief.

"The evidence is now there and we will be working with the relevant authorities to make sure those who will benefit can get access."

New England Journal of Medicine on-line January 20 2010

 

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