Multiple Sclerosis Research Repository

 “Clinical outcomes of escalation vs early intensive disease-modifying therapy in patients with multiple sclerosis”: Harding K

–Patients were classified according to first-line treatment strategy: high-efficacy (early intensive treatment [EIT]) or moderate-efficacy DMT (escalation [ESC]).

– Primary outcome was 5-year change in Expanded Disability Status Scale score. Secondary outcome was time to sustained accumulation of disability (SAD)

-After adjustment for relevant covariates, there was no difference in hazard of SAD between the groups. 

-However, 60% of those who escalated to high-efficacy DMTs were observed to develop SAD while still receiving initial moderate-efficacy treatment before escalation.