Author Of 1 Presentation
P0300 - Baseline features in DISCOntinuation of disease modifying therapies in Multiple Sclerosis (DISCOMS) (ID 791)
Abstract
Background
New relapses and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) abnormalities diminish as people age with multiple sclerosis (MS). Data supporting use of disease modifying therapies (DMTs), from studies with typical inclusion ages of 18-55, suggest diminished benefit in older compared with younger individuals. Whether it is beneficial to continue, or safe to discontinue, DMTs as people age beyond 55 remains unknown. Retrospective studies show those at greatest risk of new inflammatory disease activity upon DMT discontinuation are younger and had recent new relapse and/or MRI scan activity.
Objectives
Present the design and baseline data in our study evaluating whether older individuals with MS who discontinue their DMT have no worse risk of new disease activity compared to those who remain on DMT.
Methods
This is a randomized (1:1), controlled, rater-blinded study in which 260 MS participants aged 55 and older and continuously taking DMTs (at least 5 years, minimum 2 years on current DMT) were enrolled at 19 sites in the United States. They have no evidence of MS relapse for 5+ years or new MRI lesion for 3+ years, and will be followed for up to 2 years, with study visits every 6 months. Primary outcome is either a new MS relapse or T2 brain MRI lesion. Secondary outcomes are 6-month confirmed increase in Extended Disability Status Scores (EDSS), and worsening of Symbol Digit Modality Test or patient-reported outcomes.
Results
Mean age of participants is 63 ± 5 years, and 83.7% are female. Racial/ethnic breakdown is 89.2% White, 9.2% Black or African American, 0.8% Hispanic/Latino, and 0.8% Other. Participants average 22.3 ± 10.5 years since symptom onset, and 13.5 ± 7 years since last relapse. Most have Relapsing-Remitting MS (83.7%), with 13.1% Secondary Progressive and 3.2% Primary Progressive MS. At enrollment, 42.6% were on an interferon, 30.3% on glatiramer acetate, 15.1% dimethyl fumarate, 6.4% fingolimod, 3.2% teriflunomide, 1.6% natalizumab, and 0.8% ocrelizumab. EDSS scores average 3.3 ± 1.8, and 77.8% of participants rate their treatment satisfaction as Satisfied or Very Satisfied at enrollment.
Conclusions
The DISCOMS study is the first controlled trial to address whether it is safe to discontinue DMTs in MS. Enrolled participants represent a unique cohort of stable, older MS patients with relatively low disability. Upon completion, the study will increase our understanding of the utility of MS DMTs throughout the lifespan of MS.