Two new oral disease modifying treatments for relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), Tecfidera and Aubagio, will be listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme in Australia as of 1 December, 2013.
Tecfidera (dimethyl Fumarate - previously known in clinical trials as BG-12) is an oral treatment for patients with RRMS. Tecfidera has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and neuro-protective properties. Clinical trials have shown it can reduce relapse rates and delay the progression of disability in people with RRMS.
Aubagio (teriflunomide) - has been shown to reduce or decrease the number of relapses and slow down the progression of physical disability in patients with relapsing remitting forms of MS.
This is great news for people living with RRMS. A full update can be found at MS Research Australia.
For more information on MS and other MS treatments:
- Speak to your neurologist; they can discuss with you what treatment best suits your individual circumstances.
- A MSWA Nurse can also provide information, training & ongoing support in managing disease modifying therapies & their side effects. Contact us for more information on 08 9365 4888.
Please note: MSWA does not recommend any specific disease-modifying treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist.