MS research: What's the latest?

Keeping tabs on the latest MS research isn't always easy. So, our team of in-house health professionals took a closer look into some of the treatments in the research pipeline for people living with MS. Most of these treatments are in the final phase of clinical development — phase III clinical trials. In this phase, researchers compare the safety and effectiveness of the new treatment against the current standard treatment. Check out the roundup:

1. Ozanimod - An oral treatment in phase III clinical trials with the potential to reduce relapses and prevent neurological damage. Ozanimod is reported to work like Gilenya (fingolimod) but with some potential for fewer side effects. A new drug application for ozanimod was submitted to the FDA in December 2017. This application is seeking approval for the use of this agent to treat relapsing multiple sclerosis. It is possible that an FDA decision could be made on this application in the second half of 2018.
2. Ponesimod - An oral treatment in phase III clinical trials that prevents immune cells from damaging myelin that insulates nerve-cells in patients with MS. A new drug application for Ponesimod is possible within the next couple of years.
3. Siponimod - Similar to Ozanimod, Siponimod is an oral treatment in phase III clinical trials that may reduce risk of relapse and disease progression. With a new drug application in the next year or two, the treatment has the potential for approval and launch 6-12 months later.
4. ALKS 8700 - This oral treatment (currently in phase III clinical trials) is a slightly different formulation of Tecfidera (dimethyl fumarate) but, according to Alkermes, has fewer gastrointestinal side effects. With a new drug application in 2018, the treatment could be available 6-12 months later.

In other treatment news: Laquinimod - You might recognize the name because initially, it showed some promise. More recently it's performed poorly in clinical trials. Laquinimod is still being developed but in Phase II studies (vs. Phase III which is the final phase of clinical development), which could mean it's at least a couple years away. Looking for more info on research and treatments? Join the community today to learn more and connect with more than 60,000 members living with MS. Share this post on Twitter and help spread the word.