Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a complex and progressive neurological condition that affects the central nervous system. While there is currently no cure, research continues to make significant strides in developing new treatments, repurposing existing drugs, and improving quality of life for those with MS.
For members of the Samson Centre, staying informed about the latest research and treatment options is essential in managing MS effectively. The Samson Centre provides physiotherapy, exercise classes, and emotional support, which complement medical treatments and ongoing research efforts.
This article provides an overview of some of the most promising medical trials, treatments, and research breakthroughs, including Fampridine, the Octopus trial, and Ocrevus.
Fampridine – Improving Mobility for Some MS Patients
Fampridine (also known as Fampyra in the UK and Ampyra in the US) is a drug that has been shown to improve walking speed in some adults with MS. It works as a potassium channel blocker, helping damaged nerve cells transmit signals more effectively. Essentially, it blocks the leakage of potassium from nerve cells, allowing messages from the brain to reach their destination with fewer disruptions.
Effectiveness and Availability
–Around 40-50% of patients report an improvement in mobility when taking Fampridine.
-The initial response is tested over a two-to-four-week trial period, after which only those who benefit continue to receive the treatment.
-Studies have shown that 35% of patients taking Fampridine improved their walking speed compared to 8% taking a placebo.
-A 2019 ENHANCE trial also highlighted that Fampridine could improve overall walking ability, not just speed.
However, availability across the UK is inconsistent:
This discrepancy is due to NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) ruling that Fampridine is clinically effective but not considered cost-effective for widespread NHS funding.
Side Effects & Considerations
While Fampridine can be beneficial for mobility, it is not suitable for everyone. Potential side effects include:
Urinary tract infections (most common)
–Dizziness and headaches
–Back pain and nausea
–Sleep disturbances
–Possible worsening of trigeminal neuralgia
One of the Samson Centre trustees, Gavin, tried Fampridine and initially found it to be highly effective. However, over time, the benefits diminished, and he no longer takes it. This reflects the individual variation in response, which remains a challenge for researchers.
For those struggling with mobility, physiotherapy and targeted exercises, like those offered at the Samson Centre, may provide an alternative approach to improving movement and strength.
The Octopus Trial – A Revolutionary Approach to Progressive MS
The Octopus trial is a major research initiative designed to test multiple treatments simultaneously to find new therapies for progressive MS. Unlike traditional trials that test one drug at a time, Octopus uses a multi-arm, multi-stage (MAMS) approach to speed up the process of identifying effective treatments.
Why Is It Different?
It repurposes existing drugs that are already licensed for other conditions but show potential for MS.
Multiple treatments are tested at the same time, with promising drugs advancing to the next stage and ineffective ones dropped early.
MRI scans and disability assessments are used to measure the effectiveness of each drug.
This trial method has already been successfully used in prostate cancer research and is now being applied to MS.
First Two Drugs Being Tested
Metformin – commonly used for diabetes, this drug has shown potential to promote remyelination (repairing the protective myelin sheath around nerves).
Lipoic Acid (Alpha Lipoic Acid) – an antioxidant that may reduce nerve damage and inflammation in progressive MS.
Who Can Take Part?
To participate in the Octopus trial, patients must:
-Have primary or secondary progressive MS.
-Be aged between 25 and 70.
-Undergo a medical examination to confirm suitability.
Trial sites are still being set up across the UK, including in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Those interested can register via the UK MS Register, and they will be contacted when a site near them begins recruitment.
Ocrevus – A Promising Treatment for Primary Progressive & Relapsing MS
Ocrevus (ocrelizumab) is an infusion-based drug that targets B cells in the immune system to reduce the damage they cause to nerve cells. It is the first licensed treatment for primary progressive MS (PPMS) and is also used for relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS).
Effectiveness & Research Findings
- In clinical trials for PPMS, Ocrevus slowed disability progression by 24% over a two-year period.
- For RRMS, trials showed a 46% reduction in relapses compared to other treatments.
- Studies also indicate that Ocrevus may help preserve brain volume, which is linked to better long-term outcomes.
How Is Ocrevus Administered?
- Initially given as two separate infusions two weeks apart.
- After the first dose, it is taken twice a year (every six months).
A newer version, Ocrevus Zunovo, offers a 10-minute injection, reducing clinic time and making treatment more convenient.
How the Samson Centre Can Help
While medical treatments such as Fampridine, Ocrevus, and research trials like Octopus provide promising avenues for treatment, lifestyle interventions, exercise, and support groups remain key in managing MS.
The Samson Centre offers:
- Physiotherapy sessions tailored to MS symptoms, helping to maintain mobility.
- Specialist exercise programmes to support strength and balance.
- Emotional support and a community of others living with MS, helping members stay informed and connected.
For those who are unable to access or afford Fampridine, structured exercise programmes at the Samson Centre may provide alternative ways to improve mobility and strength.
Further Support & Key Links
For additional guidance and professional support, here are some key resources:
📌 Samson Centre for MS – Providing physiotherapy, exercise, and emotional support for MS patients.
🔗 www.samsoncentre.org.uk
📌 NHS MS Helpline – 0808 800 8000 (for general MS support and information)
📌 MS Society UK Helpline – 0808 800 5050
📌 MS Trust Helpline – 0800 032 3839
📌 UK MS Register – www.ukmsregister.org (for information on clinical trials, including the Octopus trial)
📌 Shift.ms – An online community for people with MS
🔗 www.shift.ms
Conclusion
While MS remains an incurable condition, the landscape of treatment is evolving rapidly. New therapies like Fampridine offer mobility improvements for some, while the Octopus trial brings a fresh approach to drug testing for progressive MS. Meanwhile, Ocrevus continues to show promising results for both primary progressive and relapsing MS.
For Samson Centre members, keeping up to date with research and engaging in regular physiotherapy and exercise can make a significant difference. Whether through new medical treatments or lifestyle interventions, progress is being made, and hope is on the horizon