Promising emerging therapies for multiple sclerosis.

Until recently, interferon beta and glatiramer acetate were the only licensed disease-modifying therapies for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis. These agents have a modest effect on reducing relapse rates. The licensing of two more effective agents, mitoxantrone and natalizumab, provided alternatives. These agents are associated with potentially life-threatening or serious side effects. In addition, none of these licensed agents has been shown to be effective in primary progressive MS. There is a large unmet need, with several promising new therapies in the pipeline. This article reviews the proposed mechanisms of action of the anticipated treatments, their efficacy, and risks associated with their use.