Major Research Findings

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system. There are various treatments for MS, but many of them have side effects. , 5 , , 6 , 1 , , 3 , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 2 , , 4 , , , , , These studies have shown that MS drugs such as interferon beta, mitoxantrone, alemtuzumab, natalizumab, and cladribine can cause various side effects. Some of the most common side effects include flu-like symptoms, depression, liver dysfunction, increased risk of infection, cardiotoxicity, and leukopenia.

Reasons for Side Effects

The side effects of MS drugs are often caused by the drugs acting on the immune system. The immune system fights against foreign enemies to protect the body, but MS drugs suppress the immune system to reduce MS symptoms. However, suppressing the immune system weakens the body’s defenses, making it more susceptible to infections and allergic reactions. Additionally, some MS drugs can directly affect nerve cells, causing side effects. , 5 , ,

Common Side Effects

Flu-like Symptoms

Flu-like symptoms are a common side effect of MS drugs such as interferon beta. This is because interferon beta triggers inflammatory reactions in the body. ,

Depression

MS drugs such as interferon beta and mitoxantrone can cause depression. This is because these drugs disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. ,

Liver Dysfunction

MS drugs such as interferon beta and mitoxantrone can cause liver dysfunction. This is because these drugs put a strain on the liver.

Increased Risk of Infection

MS drugs such as interferon beta suppress the immune system, making people more susceptible to infections. ,

Cardiotoxicity

MS drugs such as mitoxantrone can cause cardiotoxicity. This is because these drugs damage the heart muscle.

Leukopenia

MS drugs such as alemtuzumab and cladribine can cause leukopenia. This is because these drugs attack immune cells.

Other Side Effects

In addition to the above, various side effects have been reported for MS drugs. Specifically, these include gastrointestinal symptoms, skin symptoms, neurological symptoms, and ocular symptoms. , 2 ,

Countermeasures for Side Effects

Countermeasures for Flu-like Symptoms

Antipyretic analgesics and antihistamines are effective for flu-like symptoms. It is also important to get enough rest. ,

Countermeasures for Depression

Antidepressants are effective for depression. Psychotherapy may also be effective in some cases. ,

Countermeasures for Liver Dysfunction

Drugs to reduce the burden on the liver may be prescribed for liver dysfunction. It is also important to avoid alcohol consumption.

Infection Prevention

Infection prevention includes handwashing, gargling, and getting enough rest. Vaccination is also effective when necessary. ,

Countermeasures for Cardiotoxicity

To prevent cardiotoxicity, it is important to check heart function regularly. It is also important to live a life that does not put a strain on your heart.

Countermeasures for Leukopenia

Countermeasures for leukopenia include infection prevention. It is also necessary to check white blood cell count regularly.

Comparison of Research

Common Points of Research

Many studies have found that MS drugs have various side effects. These side effects include flu-like symptoms, depression, liver dysfunction, increased risk of infection, cardiotoxicity, and leukopenia.

Differences in Research

Since the MS drugs and research methods are different in each study, the results obtained also vary. For example, in a study on the side effects of interferon beta, reported that flu-like symptoms were the most common, while reported depression. Such differences may be due to the characteristics of the research subjects or differences in treatment methods.

Cautions for Applying Research to Real Life

MS drugs should be taken appropriately after understanding the risks of side effects and in consultation with a doctor. If you experience side effects, consult your doctor immediately. Additionally, lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of side effects. For example, maintaining a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and quitting smoking.

Limitations of Current Research

Research on the side effects of MS drugs is still not sufficient. In many studies, the number of subjects is small, and the long-term effects are not clear. Also, the causes and mechanisms of side effects are not fully understood.

Future Research Directions

Future research should focus on elucidating the causes and mechanisms of side effects of MS drugs. The development of new treatments and preventive measures to reduce side effects is also needed. Furthermore, developing new indicators for evaluating side effect risks and raising awareness of side effects through public education are also important.

Conclusion

MS drugs can have a positive effect in suppressing the progression of the disease, but they also carry the risk of various side effects. It is important to understand side effects and take medications appropriately in consultation with your doctor. Also, lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of side effects. Consult your doctor immediately if you experience side effects.