MS and therapy

Question 1

What is the goal of immunomodulatory drugs?

Answer 1

To prevent relapses and exacerbations.

Question 2

Why is early therapy of MS important?

Answer 2

Early therapy is important to delay the accumulation of irreversible neurologic damage and consequent disability.

Question 3

What is the difference between first-line therapy and second-line therapy for MS?

Answer 3

First-line therapy has a lower efficacy but also a lower risk of side effects, second-line therapy has a higher efficacy but also a higher risk of side effects.

Question 4

What are the common first-line therapies for MS?

Answer 4

Interferons -beta, Glatiramer acetate, Dimethylfumarate, and Teriflunomide.

Question 5

What are the common second-line therapies for MS?

Answer 5

Ocrelizumab, Natalizumab, Fingolimod, and Alemtuzumab (this is a last resort).

Question 6

Why is it important to test for the John-Cunningham virus before administering Natalizumab?

Answer 6

The JCV infects the CNS and causes Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy, which is deadly.