Immunomodulators and immunosuppressants for multiple sclerosis: a network meta-analysis
Abstract Background Different therapeutic strategies are available for treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) including immunosuppressants, immunomodulators, and monoclonal antibodies. Their relative effectiveness in the prevention of relapse or disability progression is unclear due to the limited number of direct comparison trials. A summary of the results, including both direct and indirect comparisons of treatment effects, […]
Mitoxantrone for multiple sclerosis
Abstract Background Mitoxantrone (MX) has been shown to be moderately effective in reducing the clinical outcome measures of disease activity in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. This is an update of the Cochrane review “Mitoxantrone for multiple sclerosis” (published on Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2013, Issue 5). Objectives The main objective was to assess the […]
Carnitine for fatigue in multiple sclerosis
Abstract Background Fatigue is reported to occur in up to 92% of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and has been described as the most debilitating of all MS symptoms by 28% to 40% of MS patients. Objectives To assess whether carnitine (enteral or intravenous) supplementation can improve the quality of life and reduce the symptoms […]
Sildenafil citrate for erectile dysfunction in patients with multiple sclerosis
Abstract Background Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common sexual disease in male patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Sildenafil citrate is considered as an effective drug in the treatment of male ED in the general population, but it has not been systematically reviewed in patients with MS. Objectives To assess the efficacy and safety of sildenafil […]
Interferon beta for secondary progressive multiple sclerosis
Abstract Background Therapy with either recombinant beta-1a or beta-1b interferons (IFNs) is worldwide approved for Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS). A major unanswered question is whether this treatment is able to safely reverse or retard the progressive phase of the disease. Objectives The main objective was to verify whether IFNs treatment in Secondary Progressive Multiple […]
Statins for multiple sclerosis
Abstract Background Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the human central nervous system. Statins, prescribed as cholesterol lowering agents, have shown possible effects for treating MS in experimental and preliminary clinical studies. Objectives To evaluate the efficacy and safety of statins administered alone or as add-on to approved treatments for MS. Search […]
Natalizumab for relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis
Abstract Background Natalizumab (NTZ) (Tysabri®) is a monoclonal antibody that inhibits leukocyte migration across the blood-brain barrier, thus reducing inflammation in central nervous system, and has been approved worldwide for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Objectives To evaluate the efficacy, tolerability and safety of NTZ in the treatment of patients with RRMS. Search methods We […]
Pharmacologic treatment of depression in multiple sclerosis
Abstract Background Depression is a common problem in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). It is unclear which pharmacologic treatment is the most effective and the least harmful. Objectives To investigate the efficacy and tolerability of pharmacologic treatments for depression in patients with MS. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Multiple Sclerosis Group’s Trials Register (June […]
Vitamin D for the management of multiple sclerosis
Abstract Background Multiple sclerosis is a disease of the central nervous system characterized by demyelination of the nerve sheaths which can result in varying levels of disability. Disease occurrence and progression are considered by some to be associated with low serum levels of vitamin D. Studies investigating vitamin D supplementation in MS patients have illustrated […]
Glatiramer acetate for multiple sclerosis
Abstract Background This is an updated Cochrane review of the previous version published (Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2004 , Issue 1 . Art. No.: CD004678. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD004678) Previous studies have shown that glatiramer acetate (Copaxone ®), a synthetic amino acid polymer is effective in experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE), and improve the outcome of patients […]