Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for multiple sclerosis (MS) can help slow its progression. There are several types, and each differs in how it’s taken and for how long.
Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) can be an important part of managing multiple sclerosis (MS). They can prevent flare-ups and delay or prevent the progression of MS to more advanced types.
There are several types of DMTs, such as oral medications, IVs, and injections. Learn more about their side effects and which may be best for you.
Many DMTs are available, so it might be confusing to understand what’s available when treating MS.
DMTs vary when it comes to how often you take them. They can be:
- daily medications
- taken a few times per week or month
- taken a few times per year
The frequency depends on the type of DMT and its actions in your body.
The tables below cover approved DMTs, how they’re taken, and their common side effects.
DMT injections
The following medications can be self-injected for MS:
| Drug | Frequency |
|---|---|
| interferon beta-1a (Avonex, Plegridy) | • once weekly for Avonex • once every 2 weeks for Plegridy |
| interferon beta-1b (Betaseron, Rebif) | • once every 2 days for Betaseron • three times weekly for Rebif |
| glatiramer acetate (Copaxone) | daily or three times weekly |
| ofatumumab (Kesimpta) | once per month |
Side effects for DMT injections may include:
- flu-like symptoms
- pain or reaction at injection site
- dizziness
- shortness of breath at time of injection
- respiratory infection
- headache
DMT IV infusions
The following medications can be given through an intravenous (IV) infusion for MS:
| Drug | Frequency |
|---|---|
| alemtuzumab (Lemtrada) | daily for 5 days, then 1 year later, daily for 3 days |
| mitoxantrone (Novantrone) | every 3 months |
| ocrelizumab (Ocrevus) | every 2 weeks for first two doses, then every 6 months after that |
| natalizumab (Tysabri) | every 4 weeks |
Side effects of DMT IV infusions may include:
- headaches
- nausea
- hair thinning
IV infusions can be a good alternative for people who find it difficult to take oral medications or experience unwanted side effects. They are also preferred for cases of more active disease, as IV infusions can be more effective.
Oral medications
The following medications can be taken orally for MS:
| DMT | Frequency |
|---|---|
| teriflunomide (Aubagio) | once daily |
| monomethyl fumarate (Bafiertam) | twice daily |
| fingolimod (Gilenya) | once daily |
| siponimod (Mayzent) | once daily |
| dimethyl fumarate (Tecfidera) | twice daily |
| diroximel fumarate (Vumerity) | twice daily |
| ponesimod (Ponvory) | once daily |
| ozanimod (Zeposia) | once daily |
Side effects of DMT oral medications may include:
- headaches
- nausea
- hair thinning
- itching
- diarrhea
- back pain
- high blood pressure
- flushing
Keeping in touch with your care team is an important part of taking care of yourself when you have MS.
Regular appointments are an opportunity for you and a doctor to check in and discuss whether current treatments are working or if a change in therapy is needed.
Some of the most common side effects of DMTs are listed above. However, it’s possible you may experience others.
Some side effects are more common with certain types of medication. For example:
- Injected medications: These can cause flu-like symptoms or changes in some blood work results.
- Infusions: These can cause headaches and nausea. They can increase the risk of some infections.
- Oral medications: These can cause stomach upset and headaches.
The goal of any treatment is for the benefits to outweigh any bothersome side effects. A doctor can discuss your options with you to figure out the best treatment approach.
Also speak with a doctor if you’re concerned about side effects or notice any changes in your health when starting a DMT.
Taking DMTs while pregnant
No DMTs are proven safe for pregnancy or breastfeeding or chestfeeding. Before beginning any new medication, it’s important to let a doctor know if you think you’re pregnant or are considering a pregnancy.
DMTs can help manage MS and slow its progression. There are several types of DMTs, such as oral medications, IVs, and injections.
DMTs can vary when it comes to how often you take them as well as the side effects.
A doctor can help determine the DMT that’s most suitable for your needs.