A to Z of MS Oral drugs for MS
All of the disease modifying drugs for multiple sclerosis currently have to be injected or, in the case of natalizumab (Tysabri), given by a monthly infusion. The race is on to produce the first tablet treatment for relapsing remitting MS with two drugs currently submitted for a licence.
Fingolimod
Fingolimod is a drug that acts on certain types of white blood cells (lymphocytes) and stops them circulating in the blood.
Results from a one year phase III study (called TRANSFORMS) comparing fingolimod with interferon beta 1a (Avonex), and from a two-year study (FREEDOMS) were published in January 2010. Both showed that fingolimod had a greater impact on reducing relapse rates in people with relapsing remitting MS. FREEDOMS also indicated that fingolimod reduced disability progression.
Cladribine
Cladribine is currently licensed in an injectable form to treat types of leukaemia but a tablet formulation has been developed for MS.
Results from a two year phase III study (called CLARITY) showed that that cladribine was more effective at reducing the relapse rate than placebo.
Both drugs have been submitted for licensing to the EMEA, the regulatory body for drugs in Europe.
MS Trust Information Service
If this information doesn't answer your questions, contact the MS Trust's personal information service on 0800 032 38 39 or by email
