Recent developments in approved and oral multiple sclerosis treatment and an update on future treatment options

Drug Discov Today. 2011 Jan;16(1-2):8-21. doi: 10.1016/j.drudis.2010.10.011. Epub 2010 Nov 3.

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common chronic neurological disease in young adults in the western world. There was no specific treatment available for this serious disorder until the introduction of the immunomodulatory drug interferon-β in the mid-1990s. Since then, the number of agents and treatment strategies for MS has increased rapidly. Deeper knowledge on the heterogeneous nature of MS cleared the way for several more specific, more effective and more comfortable therapies. Here, because of the exciting recent developments concerning oral treatment forms for MS, we summarize the current state of approved and future therapy options. In particular, we highlight oral treatment options in MS.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Oral
  • Animals
  • Drug Approval
  • Drug Design
  • Forecasting
  • Humans
  • Multiple Sclerosis / drug therapy
  • Multiple Sclerosis / therapy*