There are different treatments used for multiple sclerosis. Observational data generates evidence about what are the efficacy, safety, tolerance, adherence and management of these drugs in real world.
To describe the experience with the use of teriflunomide in a specialized multiple sclerosis (MS) unit from September 2015 to May 2020
Epidemiological analysis of MS patients treated with teriflunomide from September 2015 to May 2020 in a specialized MS unit, together with the reasons to start and to stop with the treatment and the clinical evolution of the patients.
112 patients (70% women, 30% men) were treated with teriflunomide from September 2015 to May 2020. The mean age was 42 years (range 21-68 years). Teriflunomide was the first MS treatment in >50% of cases and the others had been treated with other MS treatments with moderate efficacy, mainly interferons and glatiramer acetate. During this period, the drug was discontinued in 38 patients (34%): 27 patients for disease activity (relapses or new brain o spinal core lesions), 5 for adverse events, 4 for developing a progressive form of the disease, 2 for pregnancy desire, 1 for personal decision. There have been no severe adverse events. 3 patients had severe diarrhea and 2 peripheral neuropathy. 5 patients had significant hair fragility that was treated but did not cause discontinuation of teriflunomide.
Teriflunomide is an optimal, suitable and effective drug for relapsing-remitting with known and mild-to-moderate adverse events.