Adherence to disease-modifying drugs in patients with multiple sclerosis: a consensus statement from the Middle East MS Advisory Group.

Adherence to therapy is a key issue in chronic illnesses. In addition, several features of multiple sclerosis (MS) and its treatment may increase the likelihood of patient nonadherence and discontinuation of treatment. Nonadherence will obviously compromise the efficacy of disease-modifying drugs in patients with MS. This subject was discussed by a group of local MS specialists from the Middle East. The group debated several key questions about the features and causes of patient nonadherence and its management. Further, they made recommendations for optimizing treatment adherence in this area.