Impact of Age on Disease-Modifying Therapy (DMT) Risks in Multiple Sclerosis
This study found that while the risk of new relapse and MRI activity in multiple sclerosis (MS) decreases with age, the risks linked to DMT use may actually increase as age rises, particularly in patients with comorbidities. Discontinuation of DMTs in younger patients was noted to heighten the risk of MS disease activity, with specific MRI findings noted in older, clinically stable patients.
- Tags
- #MSResearch
- Most relevant to
- —
- Human efficacy
- Not established from this source
- Mechanism
- Not reported
- Evidence strength
- Not graded
- Outcome
- Not reported
Why it matters
These findings underline the complexities of managing MS in older adults, highlighting an urgent need for more targeted research on DMT effects beyond the typical trial populations of younger individuals.
What this does not prove
The study emphasizes a significant gap in understanding the benefits and risks of DMT in patients older than 55, as prior research predominantly involved younger cohorts.
Next milestone
No next milestone was established from the available source.
Study facts
- Study design
- Not reported
- Participants / samples
- Not reported
- Randomised
- Not reported
- Controlled
- Not reported
- Primary endpoint met
- Not reported
- Relevant MS type
- Not reported
- Publication date
- 2026-08-17
- Evidence reviewed
- Abstract only
- Regulatory approval
- Not reported
- Research areas
- Not classified
- Biological target
- Not reported
- Pathway
- Not reported
- Population
- Not reported
- Size of effect
- Not reported
- Secondary endpoints
- Not reported
- MRI endpoints
- Not reported
- Biomarkers
- Not reported
- Safety
- Not reported
Original sources
- Primary evidenceRisks and Benefits of Disease-Modifying Therapies in People Aging With Multiple Sclerosis. ↗DOI: 10.7224/1537-2073.2025-090
Supporting passages (6)
publication datePublication date: 2026-08-17
interventionAvailable since 1993, the use of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for MS has expanded dramatically, with many patients using the drugs indefinitely.
findingsFindings from natural history studies reveal that the risk of new relapse and MRI activity diminishes with age.
limitationsThe participants of most phase 3 clinical trials that have resulted in regulatory approval of MS DMTs have been 55 years or younger at the onset of participation, so there remains a dearth of data as to the benefits and risks of DMT use in older people with MS.
peer reviewedPublication types: Journal Article
subjectsWorldwide, the average age of people with multiple sclerosis (MS) has increased significantly over the past several decades.
AI assessment, not yet reviewed by a person · version 1 · Community votes are separate from evidence review.