Study Examines the Effects of MS Treatment on Mobility and Emergency Care

A retrospective cohort study presented at the 2025 ACTRIMS Forum challenges conventional assumptions regarding disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) in multiple sclerosis (MS). While DMTs are designed to reduce relapse rates and MRI activity, their impact on long-term disease progression remains uncertain.

Researchers analyzed 78 patients from a single-center cohort, matching 39 DMT-treated individuals with 39 never-treated individuals based on sex, race, age, disease duration, and comparable radiologic disease severity at diagnosis. The study found no significant difference in mobility status between treated and untreated groups (p=0.6), although numerically, untreated patients had slightly better mobility outcomes. However, those who received DMTs had significantly higher rates of emergency room (ER) visits (IRR: 1.68, p<0.001) and hospitalizations (IRR: 1.71, p<0.001).

These findings raise important questions about the long-term benefits and risks of DMT exposure, particularly regarding healthcare utilization. The authors emphasize the need for careful evaluation of DMTs in clinical decision-making, reinforcing the importance of individualized treatment strategies for MS management.

“DMT exposure did not impact long-term patient mobility. However, treatment was associated with increased healthcare utilization,” researchers concluded. “These eye-opening findings call for careful consideration of the risks and benefits of DMTs.”

Reference

Ahmed F, Hernandez R, Obeidat A. Impact of treatment on mobility and healthcare utilization in multiple sclerosis patients: a retrospective matched cohort analysis. Presented at 2025 ACTRIMS Forum; February 27-March 1; West Palm, Beach, FL; Session P415.