Research Topic — MS

Multiple sclerosis (or MS) is a chronic, often disabling disease that attacks the central nervous system (CNS), which is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. Symptoms may be mild, such as numbness in the limbs, or severe, such as paralysis or loss of vision. The progress, severity, and specific symptoms of MS are unpredictable and vary from one person to another. ("What is Multiple sclerosis")
Although there is still no cure for MS, effective strategies are available to modify the disease course, manage symptoms, improve function and safety, and provide emotional support. In combination, these treatments enhance the quality of life for people living with MS. ("Treatment")


Panel Recommends that FDA Approve Fampridine-SR (proposed name Amaya) for Symptomatic Treatment of MS

A U.S. Food and Drug Administration advisory committee today recommended that the agency approve marketing of Fampridine-SR (Acorda Therapeutics, with a proposed name change to Amaya) for its ability to improve walking speed in people with any type of multiple sclerosis. While the FDA is not required to follow the recommendations of its advisory committees, it usually does. The agency is expected to make a final decision about whether to approve the drug for market on or before the target date of October 22, 2009.

Background on Unmet Need: Problems with gait (difficulty in walking) are among the most common limitations in MS. While there are six FDA-approved disease-modifying therapies that are at least partially effective against some forms of the disease, as well as rehabilitation and symptomatic treatments for some symptoms, at present there is no pharmacologic treatment specifically available for MS-related difficulty walking. This disability has wide-ranging effects on people’s lives, even in its milder manifestations.

A recent survey among more than 1,000 individuals with MS and many of their family members examined the impact of mobility issues, such as difficulty walking, on quality of life among patients with MS and their families. Some two-thirds of patients reported difficulty walking and of these, 70% reported that such difficulty was the most challenging part of their MS, and most reported that difficulty walking restricts their daily activities significantly, including their ability to travel. ( Read more about survey results) ("Panel")

Works Cited

"Panel Recommends that FDA Approve Fampridine-SR (proposed name Amaya) for Symptomatic Treatment of MS -- Found to improve walking speed for all types of MS." National MS Society. 14 Oct. 2009. Web. 18 Oct. 2009..

"Treatments." National MS Society. Web. 18 Oct. 2009. .

"What is Multiple Sclerosis?" National MS Society. Web. 18 Oct. 2009. .