In recent years, many disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) have been approved for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). DMTs are not a cure for MS, but they have been proven to alter the course of the disease, reduce relapses, slow its progression, and alleviate symptoms. DMTs function by surpressing immune activity. This, in turn, diminishes the intensity of the inflammatory attack responsible for driving this disorder.
Dr Lauren Krupp, a neurologist at NYU Langone Health in New York, NY, presents an overview of the mechanisms of action (MOA) for the various DMTs and their effects on the immune system, including the potential to increase risk for infection and alter response to vaccination.
Dr Krupp notes that DMTs can be administered orally, by injection, and by infusion, depending on the drug prescribed. She further explains that because there are now more DMT options, it is important to understand how best to tailor therapy decisions to individual patients.
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Lauren Krupp, MD, Professor, Department of Neurology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine; Director, NYU Langone Comprehensive Care Center, Deaprtment of Neurology, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY
Lauren Krupp, MD, has disclosed the following relevant financial relationships:
Serve(d) as a director, officer, partner, employee, advisor, consultant, or trustee for: Novartis; Biogen; Bristol-Myers Squibb
Received research grant from: Biogen; Novartis