Multiple Sclerosis
Patient Education

Patient Guide

Common Medications and Treatments for Multiple Sclerosis

There are four main objectives to treatment of multiple sclerosis which are listed below in this patient education guide:

Diminishing the frequency of neurological attacks
Shortening time to recover from attacks
Inhibit disease progression
Relief of complications or side effects of multiple sclerosis

Drug Category	How the Medication Works
Interferons	Controls the immune system; protects against viruses and other invaders
Disease Modifying Drugs (DMDs)	Inhibits attack of myelin by the immune system
Corticosteroids	Non-specific effect on the immune system Decreases inflammation
Monoclonal antibody	Prevents immune cells from attaching to other cells
Chemotherapy	Destroys abnormal cells
Immunomodulating Drug (Oral medication)	Decreases inflammatory process
Muscle Relaxants	Decreases spasms of muscles
Anticonvulsants	Acts as pain-reliever
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)	Decreases inflammation around the nerves

Research into future treatment options of multiple sclerosis centers around myelin manufacture by the brain to block nerve death. Other research focuses on implanting cells into the spinal cord or brain to grow in areas where these cells are missing to promote impulse transmission along the damaged nerves.

Stretching exercises can help to diminish stiffness and increase mobility.

Massage therapy may help with the tightened or spasmodic muscles in multiple sclerosis.

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