In 2023, key developments in multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment included the FDA approval of Tyruko (natalizumab-sztn), the first natalizumab biosimilar, offering more access to this effective MS drug, alongside recommendations for subcutaneous Tysabri in Australia and advancements in trials for progressive MS treatments like BTK inhibitors. Generic teriflunomide (Aubagio) also became available, and new trials for potential myelin repair (metformin, alpha-lipoic acid) for progressive MS began.
Kesimpta and Ocrevus are both effective for relapsing MS, but Kesimpta may offer advantages in reducing relapse rates and MRI disease activity. Ocrevus remains the only option approved for primary progressive MS.
Low birth weight linked to MS
The risk of low birth weight was higher in pregnancies where the mother had used S1P modulators, anti-CD20 therapies, or natalizumab. Several other studies have also found that people with MS have a higher risk of having a baby with a low birth weight.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
You can spend it on whatever you need, such as paying for support to remain independent during relapses, or to help with extra costs such as heating, transport or help around the house. Some people with MS assume they can't get PIP because they're 'not disabled enough'.
Having MS Does Not Mean You Can't Have Children
Research shows that MS does not make it more difficult to get pregnant2, and it does not increase the risk of pregnancy complications. However, a child's risk of developing MS later in life increases if a parent has certain types of MS.
In clinical studies of patients who have been on Ocrevus for up to 10 years, 77% with relapsing MS were free from disability progression, and 92% continued to walk without needing assistance.
No, Kesimpta (ofatumumab) isn't chemotherapy. Chemotherapy works by killing fast-growing cells in the body. It's usually used to treat cancer. But Kesimpta (ofatumumab) is a type of medication called a monoclonal antibody.
Tecfidera, the newest pill treatment to enter the market, is also priced in the range of $62,000 per year. “MS DMDs are too expensive,” said Daniel Kantor, M.D., president of the Florida Society of Neurology, founder of the Southern MS Consortium. “This is almost universally recognized.
As well as disability benefits, there's other financial help out there that might make living with MS easier. Find out more about free public transport, disabled facilities grants, help with keeping warm in winter, prescription charges and dealing with debt.
The medication, Rybrevant (amivantamab), is now available through the PBS for Australians with locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) caused by changes (Exon-20 insertion alterations) in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene.
Antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and cetirizine (Zyrtec), are commonly used to manage allergies. However, these drugs can also make some MS-related symptoms worse.
There are no medications approved by the FDA for the treatment of MS fatigue. The most commonly used off-label symptomatic medications are amantadine and modafinil.
For those with MS, avoiding too much exercise is a big concern. Too much activity can cause fatigue and worsen symptoms. It's important to listen to your body and know when you've done too much. Pacing activities and taking breaks helps manage energy.
Examples of live vaccines to avoid during Kesimpta treatment include: measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) chickenpox.
Certainly, if you have Primary Progressive MS, Ocrevus is the choice for you. If you prefer home self-injections even though they are more frequent, then Kesimpta is the clear choice.
Pulmonary complications.
MS can weaken the muscles that control the lungs. Such respiratory issues are the major cause of sickness and death in people in the final stages of MS.
If you have Medicare Part B and supplemental insurance, most or all of your OCREVUS costs will be covered by the plan.
According to a study published by the American Academy of Neurology (AAN), people with MS lived an average of 7.5 years less than those without MS. The study, which involved about 34,000 people, including 5,800 with MS, showed that people with the disease lived, on average, to be 75.9 years old.
Yes, MS can be both active and with progression: it's gradually getting worse, so it's 'with progression' but it's active too. Either there's been a relapse or your neurologist can see new inflammation on your latest MRI scan (old lesions have got bigger or new ones have appeared)
5 Tips for Living Better with MS: Patients and Caregivers
MS isn't directly passed on. While over 200 genes might affect your chances of getting MS, genetics only play a part. Having someone else in your family with MS increases your risk slightly, but the chances are still low.