Stopping first-line treatment tied to increased MS disease activity

December 11, 2024

Study design: The multi-center, randomized DOT-MS trial investigated the effects of discontinuing first-line disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) in patients with stable MS. Participants with no relapses or significant MRI activity for 5 years were randomly assigned to either continue or stop their DMT.

Results: The trial was terminated early due to a significant increase in disease activity among patients who discontinued DMTs. Those who stopped treatment experienced more relapses and new MRI lesions compared with those who continued therapy.

Impact on clinical practice: The findings highlight the risks associated with stopping DMTs, even in patients with long-term stable disease, suggesting that continuous use of DMTs is essential for maintaining disease stability in MS patients.

Source:

Coerver EME, et al. (2024, December 9). JAMA Neurol. Discontinuation of First-Line Disease-Modifying Therapy in Patients With Stable Multiple Sclerosis: The DOT-MS Randomized Clinical Trial. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39652340/