Home / Health / New MS Drug Offers Hope on NHS
New MS Drug Offers Hope on NHS
3 Jan
Summary
- Natalizumab, a new MS treatment, is now available on the NHS.
- It is recommended for relapsing-remitting MS and is safe during pregnancy.
- The drug prevents immune cells from attacking nerves in the brain and spinal cord.
A significant advancement in multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment is now accessible to thousands in England through the NHS. Natalizumab, a medication administered every four weeks via infusion or injection, has received recommendation from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
This new treatment option is specifically for individuals with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), the most common form of the condition. Notably, natalizumab is deemed safe for use during pregnancy, presenting a vital choice for women who wish to start a family while managing their MS.
The drug functions by intercepting immune cells, preventing them from crossing into the central nervous system where they can attack myelin, the protective layer around nerves. This action helps to reduce inflammation and scarring associated with MS, thereby mitigating symptoms. NICE estimates approximately 43,000 individuals in England have RRMS, and this recommendation ensures a more personalized care approach for those with highly active disease.
