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In practice, methylprednisolon (MP) is administered intravenously in MS patients suffering from relapses. In a recent phase-IV clinical trial, however, Spanish scientists show that the drug has the same mode of action when taken orally. This route of administration would be more convenient for patients and has lower costs, the researchers write in Multiple Sclerose Journal.

Previously, the research group established the effect of both administration routes on disability and lesion detection on MRI. These were comparable, just like tolerability and safety of the drug. To confirm these results, the present study focuses on cytokine levels in the blood of MS patients before and after MP use. To this end, a double-blind, randomised phase-IV clinical trial with 39 post-relapse MS patients was conducted. Because of the equivalent pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine levels, the scientists conclude that the way of MP administration is irrelevant for its effects on MS relapses.

These outcomes are in line with previous clinical trials comparing oral and intravenous MP use in MS patients. Consequently, the authors urge for a switch to oral medication which is less invasive, more convenient for patients and cheaper.

Sources: Multiple Sclerose Journal

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