The MS drugs news is constantly discussing the current medicines used to manage Multiple Sclerosis, but there is always the need for new and improved MS drugs. The MS drugs in development list has at least one up and coming medicine with a lot of potential. This oral drug is called laquinimod and so far the studies performed on it have gotten nothing but positive results.
The drugs used to treat various stages of MS are numerous. Some are for specifically treating relapses, while others help to modify the course of the disease. The majority of the medicines used on MS patients are for managing the numerous symptoms experienced daily.
Research on laquinimod showed it not only reduced the percentage rate of relapses had annually, but it also reduced the amount of brain atrophy, as well as the rate in which MS progressed. Each of these benefits gives Multiple Sclerosis patients hope of leading a normal life. Laquinimod is showing much more potential in managing this autoimmune disease and there have been reports of fewer side effects felt. FDA approval still needs to be obtained before this medicine for MS patients can hit the market.
New MS Drugs Already Approved by the FDA
The new MS drugs 2010 brought about was the addition of fingolimod, which was the very first oral medication used to slow the progression of the disease. Before fingolimod, Multiple Sclerosis patients had to receive medication via injection. Having the option to take an oral medication that provides the same or better relief than those given through injection has been a huge plus.
Fingolimod was approved by the FDA in 2010. It has provided much relief to many MS patients. Problems with movement, muscle spasms, and a loss of balance have all been treated with fingolimod. This oral medication also lowered the number of relapses people with MS were experiencing. The main side effect of fingolimod was a drop in pulse rate, which could be potentially dangerous for some people.
It’s best to get the initial dose of fingolimod by a doctor so a monitor can be used to check the pulse rate. Some patients also reported macular edema, which can be detected through regular eye exams. Common side effects noticed with this particular MS medication are headaches, fatigue, and the occasional head cold.
Keeping current with the MS drugs in development, as well as the MS drugs news being given, Multiple Sclerosis patients are able to be aware of any medicines with a higher potential of eliminating the symptoms of MS all together.
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