What’s New and What Works: The Most Effective Multiple Sclerosis Treatments, Clinics, and Support Options for 2025

The current landscape includes more than 20 FDA-approved disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), ongoing research at major medical centers such as Mayo Clinic, proactive approaches to symptom management, and a broad network of wellness and support programs designed to help individuals manage their MS effectively.

Overview of MS Treatments and Medications (2025)

Disease-Modifying Therapies (DMTs):
DMTs play a central role in helping to manage the frequency and severity of MS relapses and may contribute to slowing disease progression. In the USA, more than 20 DMTs are FDA-approved for relapsing forms of MS, including:

• Injectable Medications: Interferons (e.g., Avonex, Rebif, Betaseron), glatiramer acetate (Copaxone®, Glatopa®)
• Oral Therapies: Fingolimod (Gilenya), teriflunomide (Aubagio), dimethyl fumarate (Tecfidera), siponimod, cladribine (Mavenclad®)
• Infusion Therapies: Natalizumab (Tysabri®), ocrelizumab (Ocrevus®), ofatumumab (Kesimpta®), ublituximab (Briumvi®), alemtuzumab, mitoxantrone

New and Emerging Therapies (2025):
In 2025, the FDA granted Breakthrough Therapy designation for tolebrutinib, a Bruton’s Tyrosine Kinase (BTK) inhibitor, under investigation for non-relapsing secondary-progressive MS (nrSPMS). Clinical studies to date suggest tolebrutinib may offer benefit in slowing confirmed disability progression, with broader availability anticipated following regulatory reviews. Please note: Some participants in clinical trials experienced elevations in liver enzymes; regular monitoring is recommended.

Safety Updates:
- Copaxone® and Glatopa®: In January 2025, the FDA updated labeling to include a Boxed Warning related to rare but serious anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) associated with glatiramer acetate. Patients are advised to be aware of potential symptoms such as swelling, breathing difficulties, wheezing, or rash, even after extended treatment duration.

Switching or Discontinuing DMTs:
Recent studies indicate that discontinuing DMTs, even after prolonged disease stability, may be associated with an increased risk of new disease activity or relapse. Clinical decisions regarding any change in therapy should be made in consultation with an MS specialist, using an individualized approach.

Transition Approaches:
For those transitioning from Tysabri® to anti-CD20 therapies (Ocrevus®, Kesimpta®, Briumvi®), data suggest that minimizing the transition gap (less than 30 days) may reduce the risk of relapse. Coordinated care with healthcare teams is important during any treatment change.

Early Intervention:
Initiating Mavenclad® after a first demyelinating event has been associated with delayed onset of clinically definite MS and higher relapse-free rates in clinical observation. Early and proactive therapy remains an important consideration.

Accessing MS Clinics and Coordinated Care

Mayo Clinic Multidisciplinary MS Centers:
Mayo Clinic campuses in Minnesota, Arizona, and Florida are recognized for MS diagnosis and care, offering services from multidisciplinary teams that include neurologists, physiatrists, urologists, psychiatrists, neuro-ophthalmologists, and more:

• Coordinated diagnostics and treatment planning
• Experience with both common and rare forms of MS
• Multispecialty rehabilitation and wellness services
• A pediatric MS program acknowledged by the National MS Society

Insurance coverage and referral requirements may vary; checking directly with the clinic and your insurer is recommended. Many local hospital neurology and MS centers also provide access to current therapies and support resources.

Supporting Symptom Management and Wellness

MS management includes more than disease-modifying medications. Comprehensive wellness and supportive strategies are important for optimizing function, independence, and quality of life.

Symptom Management Options: - Steroid Therapy: IV methylprednisolone and oral prednisone are treatment options for acute flare-ups. - Spasticity and Muscle Weakness: Addressed through physical/occupational therapy and appropriate medications. - Fatigue: Managed with medication, mental health interventions, and energy-conservation strategies. - Bladder/Bowel Dysfunction: Addressed via medication, bladder training, and infection prevention, as urinary tract infections can lead to hospitalization. - Pain and Mobility Issues: Managed through exercise, rehabilitation, and medication as needed.

Physical Rehabilitation and Exercise:
Individualized physical therapy and exercise programs can offer benefits for physical and emotional well-being in MS.

Lifestyle Considerations:
Balanced nutrition, managing stress, and cardiovascular health strategies are associated with positive brain health outcomes and may support slower disease progression.

Programs and Support Networks

Comprehensive MS Wellness Initiatives:
A variety of hospital-based and nonprofit MS programs in the USA provide access to:

• Mental health counseling, including support for managing depression
• Fatigue and stress management resources
• Group and adaptive physical activity opportunities
• Education on nutrition, medication, and self-advocacy

MS Support Groups and National Organizations:
Connection and peer support resources are widely available, including:

• National MS Society: Peer support options, regional chapters, wellness education, and live group finders
• Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA): Educational programs, supportive services, counseling, and some forms of financial assistance

Hospitals often offer their own MS support and wellness initiatives; ask your neurology clinic or hospital social worker about local resources. These programs are designed to serve people across many ages and stages of MS.

Approaches to Living with MS in 2025

Managing MS in 2025 involves:

• Engaging in early, individualized disease-modifying therapy and regular care reassessment
• Coordinating care through multidisciplinary clinical teams, whether at Mayo Clinic or through local hospital neurology departments
• Taking a comprehensive approach to wellness: incorporating exercise, rehabilitation, nutrition, and cardiovascular risk management
• Timely response to relapses, infections, and new complications
• Seeking mental health and social support to help manage fatigue and support overall well-being
• Exploring peer and community engagement through established organizations

Understanding Insurance and Financial Aspects:
Insurance plans commonly cover advanced therapies and specialist visits, but it is important to review coverage details with your provider, including pre-authorization or referral requirements for new treatments or specialist visits.

Practical Next Steps: - Collaborate with your MS specialist on therapy decisions - Stay informed on new medications and safety updates - Access national and local support resources - Maintain and update a personal management and wellness plan as needed

Sources

• What’s New in MS Research – January 2025 (MSAA)
• Multiple Sclerosis Care at Mayo Clinic
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Treatments – Healthline

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