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Issue: #10October 2012

MSResearchUpdateMS Research Update

 

ADHD medication holds promise for improving cognition in MS

 

Researchers at Western University in Ontario reported phase II study findings that Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (LDX) improves thinking and memory in MS patients. The FDA approved LDX (brand name Vyvanse) in 2007 to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

 

MS slows mental processes like attention, learning and memory. Stimulants like many ADHD medications can speed up these processes, but can also become addictive and cause other harmful effects on behavior. LDX is a D-amphetamine prodrug with a longer clinical effect, which could make it easier
to tolerate.

 

In the study, LDX helped subjects think faster and improved memory. Nearly 3/4 of all participants including the placebo group reported side effects, but the study did not note
these events.

 

Researchers concluded that this early data could show promise for using LDX to treat MS patients for cognitive impairment. Read the full abstract.

 

Comments:

 

Numerous clinical trials have shown stimulants to be effective in improving attention and concentration in patients with ADHD.  Most studies looking at stimulants in MS patients have focused on the impact on fatigue and not on cognitive performance.  Very few evidence-based studies have looked at medications or non-drug treatments to improve cognitive functioning in MS patients.  In this study, researchers reported significant improvement in memory and processing speed in the group of MS patients who received LDX. Researchers randomly selected 63 MS patients to receive either LDX or a placebo. However, only 49 patients completed the study-representing a 22.2% dropout rate. A major drawback of stimulant use in patients can be adverse side effects. In this study, 73.5% of patients who took LDX said they experienced adverse side effects.

 

Although the sample size was small, dropout rate relatively high and there were widespread side effects, pioneering studies looking at medications to improve cognitive function in MS patients are welcome. No medication has consistently been effective to improve cognitive function in MS patients. It is encouraging to see more studies looking at both medicine and non-medicine approaches to treating these problems in MS.

 

Michelle Toshima, PhD.
Rehabilitation Psychologist

Multiple Sclerosis Center at Swedish Neurosciences Institute

 

DrQianWelcome Dr. Fine 

 

Lina Fine, M.D., M.Phil, joined the MS Center on October 15. Dr. Fine is a sleep medicine specialist at Swedish Sleep Medicine and a neuropsychiatrist at the Swedish Neuroscience Institute. Dr. Fine's approach effective patient care  combines highly informed scientific methods and attention to the specific needs of each individual.

 

MSCenterResearchMS Center Researching Cannabis 

     

Cannabis Questionnaire

The MS Center is studying the role of Cannabis and patient attitudes toward its use for MS. A primary goal of the study is to increase our understanding of Cannabis in the management of MS symptoms.

 

Eligible participants have MS, are a patient at Swedish, can read and are willing to complete a 20-minute questionnaire. There is no age or sex limitation and participants do not need to have used Cannabis.

 

Patients interested in participating in an MS Center research study can call the main number, (206) 320-2200, and ask to speak with a patient service representative or ask about current studies at their next visit.

 

Learn more about our research and clinical trials.

 

NewCenterOpenSwedish MS at ECTRIMS

 

Neurologists from the MS Center at Swedish participated in the 2012 Congress of the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS). A launch pad for leading-edge research and new data, ECTRIMS is the world's largest annual international conference in multiple sclerosis. We look forward to sharing what we learned at this year's conference in the next issue of HelpLines.

 

MSNewsMS News Digest


Gingko does not improve cognitive function in MS
Researchers conducting a clinical trial of Gingko biloba in MS patients found no evidence that it improves cognition. The study aimed to learn whether Gingko, used medicinally in many other ways, could improve thinking and remembering in people with MS. Participants took 120mg of Gingko or a placebo twice a day for 12 weeks, underwent cognitive tests and filled
out questionnaires.

 

There were no differences between the two groups. However, the study was not designed to test long-term impacts of Gingko. Researchers also noted that participants had had MS for a long period. More research would be needed to see if the effects are the same in more recently diagnosed patients. Read the full abstract.

 

Teriflunomide approved for MS treatment

On September 12, 2012, the FDA approved teriflunomide (AUBAGIO), a once-daily pill to treat relapsing forms of MS. Led by Dr. Lily Jung Henson, the Swedish Neuroscience Institute was among several clinical test sites for the medication. Studies showed teriflunomide could lessen disease activity by slowing relapse frequency, the rate of disability and MRI activity.


However, the safety profile is more challenging. Teriflunomide is closely related to leflunomide (ARAVA), a medicine used for rheumatoid arthritis that stops rapid division of cells, including immune cells. Women and men are not advised to use the drug when they are pregnant or trying to become pregnant. Teriflunomide may affect the liver and requires monthly monitoring of liver function. Additional monitoring for other side effects may be required.

While teriflunomide is a welcome addition to the growing number of MS medications, we'll continue to look carefully at the risks and benefits for each individual.
 
 

MSEventsMS Center Events

MS Roadshow visits Sequim

Oct.20, 2012 | 12:30-5pm | Holiday Inn Express & Suites

You are invited to listen and learn from MS experts at the Swedish Neuroscience Institute., Sequim, For topics and registrations, visit the MS Society calendar.

 

Music Therapy Classes

Thursdays, Sept. 27-Nov. 15 | 2:30-3:30pm | MS Center at Swedish

The MS Center partners with Seattle Pacific University to bring music therapy to the Center. Classes are free and open to non-Swedish patients and caregivers/partners.

 

Gentle Yoga

Tuesdays, Oct. 23-Dec. 4 | 11:30-1pm | MS Center at Swedish

The MS Center hosts yoga classes taught by trained instructor, Cyndi Kershner, of Full Circle Yoga Arts. Classes are free and open to non-Swedish patients and caregivers/partners.

 

Stretch and Strengthen Yoga

Thursdays, Oct. 25-Dec. 20 | 5:45-6:45pm | MS Center at Swedish

For participants wanting more of a workout in their yoga routine, and are able to stand for long periods and transfer to and from the floor without assistance. $12/class or $60/series

 

For questions about MS Center programs and classes, or to register, contact Kate Floyd: kate.floyd@swedish.org or 206.991.2099.

  

 swedish.org/ms