Multiple sclerosis: New help, new hope

Immunomodulatory agents reduce the rate of relapse in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple (MS); in addition, these drugs, particularly the interferons, can slow the progression of the disease. Thus, early treatment can help prevent disability. High doses of corticosteroids given early during an MS relapse may decrease the length and severity of the attack. Mitoxantrone is generally reserved for patients with progressive forms of MS who are experiencing rapid loss functioning. Consider intravenous immunoglobulin for patients who have had steady disease progression. Combinations of either an interferon or glatiramer with oral immunosuppresant or pulse corticosteroid therapy are increasingly used.