Evaluation of frequency, severity, and independent risk factors for recurrence of disease activity after fingolimod discontinuation in a large real-world cohort of patients with multiple sclerosis

Background: Clinical and radiological signs of recurring disease activity (RDA) have been described in patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) after discontinuation of fingolimod (FGL).

Objective: To describe frequency, severity and potential risk factors for RDA after FGL discontinuation in a large real-world cohort of pwMS.

Methods: Post-FGL RDA was defined as evidence of clinical and/or radiological activity within 6 months after FGL discontinuation. Relapses with Expanded Disability Status Scale increase ⩾2 points and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) activity with at least five cerebral gadolinium-enhancing lesions and/or ⩾6 cerebral new T2 lesions were defined as severe recurring disease activity (sRDA). Using a multivariate logistic model, we explored the influence of age, disease duration, sex, clinical, and MRI activity under FGL on the occurrence of RDA.

Results: We identified 110 pwMS who discontinued FGL. Thirty-seven (33.6%) developed post-FGL RDA and 13 (11.8%) also fulfilled criteria for sRDA. Younger age at diagnosis [odds ratio (OR) = 1.10, p < 0.01], shorter disease duration (OR = 1.17, p < 0.01), and MRI activity under FGL (OR = 2.92, p = 0.046) were independent risk factors for the occurrence of post-FGL RDA.

Conclusion: Individual risk assessment and optimal treatment sequencing can help to minimize the risk of post-FGL RDA. Early switch to highly effective disease-modifying therapy might reduce occurrence of post-FGL RDA.