New drug for Multiple Sclerosis is connected to our medical facility
Multiple sclerosis (MS), a disease affecting the central nervous system, is the most common cause of neurological disability in young adults, with an estimated 2.5 million people worldwide suffering from it [1]. This debilitating condition has been a focus of research for many years, and recent developments have brought about a significant breakthrough.
Fampridine-SR, a drug developed by Acorda Therapeutics, has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of MS. Known primarily for its positive effects on improving walking ability and patient mobility, fampridine-SR works by blocking potassium channels on nerve fibers, thereby enhancing nerve conduction and improving neurological function related to movement [2].
In clinical trials, fampridine-SR has shown consistently improved mobility in more than a third of MS patients. Specifically, it has been found to improve walking speed and endurance, enabling better mobility and physical functioning [2]. Additionally, there are indications that the drug may enhance brain function and finger dexterity, contributing to overall improved neurological performance beyond just walking [2].
Patients taking fampridine-SR reported improvements in their ability to walk farther distances, climb stairs better, and stay on their feet longer. There is a strong correlation between the speed patients can walk and the overall measurement of disability resulting from MS [2].
However, it's important to note that while the drug is effective in improving motor symptoms, there is less direct evidence regarding its effects on cognitive functions or other neurological domains such as memory or processing speed.
The most concerning risk identified in clinical trials has been the complication of seizures. However, the incidence of seizure-related events in the ongoing clinical safety studies has remained relatively low at the dose approved by the FDA [2].
Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center have been evaluating the effects of fampridine-SR in MS for over 10 years. In the Lancet study, they reported that 35% of patients taking the drug were responders who consistently improved their walking speed by an average of about 25% [2].
The process of evaluating the drug's impact required researchers to devise a new way to think about clinical trial methodology. Andrew Goodman, M.D., chief of the Multiple Sclerosis Center at the University of Rochester Medical Center, made a statement about the approval of fampridine-SR, saying, "This is a game-changer for patients with MS. For the first time, we have a medication that can enhance some neurological functions in people with MS" [3].
Fampridine-SR is expected to be available beginning in March.
References: 1. Multiple Sclerosis International Federation. (2020). Atlas of MS 2020. Retrieved from https://www.msif.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Atlas-of-MS-2020-Full-Report.pdf 2. Acorda Therapeutics. (2020). Fampridine-SR (sustained-release fampridine) for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Retrieved from https://www.acorda.com/products/fampridine-sr/ 3. University of Rochester Medical Center. (2020). FDA approves new treatment for multiple sclerosis. Retrieved from https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/news/story/4166/fda-approves-new-treatment-for-multiple-sclerosis.aspx
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