There is no cure for multiple sclerosis (MS). However, treatment advances have helped people to live longer, happier lives. Current therapeutic options include corticosteroids, plasmapheresis, and disease-modifying drugs. Recently, the FDA also approved a new treatment option: BRIUMVI (ublituximab-xiiy). 

In an article from the American Journal of Managed Care (AJMC), the AJMC staff reports that BRIUMVI was approved for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis. These include relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), clinically isolated syndrome, and active secondary progressive disease. 

BRIUMVI Approval

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society describes BRIUMVI as:

a monoclonal antibody that binds to a molecule (CD20) on the surface of immune cells called B cells and depletes (removes) them from circulating in the blood. B cells have several functions including making antibodies, and evidence suggests they play a role in the damage to the brain and spinal cord in MS.

It is administered via infusion. BRIUMVI’s approval hinged on data from the Phase 3 ULTIMATE I and ULTIMATE II studies. 1094 adults enrolled between the two studies. During the studies, patients received either ublituximab, teriflunomide (another therapy), or a placebo. The researchers found that ublituximab showed significant benefit over teriflunomide, reduced the rate of relapse, and stopped the onset or growth of T2 lesions. Learn more about BRIUMVI.

What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)? 

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic neurodegenerative disease. The immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve cells called the myelin sheath. As the myelin becomes damaged, communication between the brain and body is interrupted. MS may be considered relapsing (in which people have symptomatic periods followed by periods of no symptoms) or progressive. Women are up to two times more likely to develop MS than men. Symptoms related to multiple sclerosis can, but do not always, include: 

• Blurred or double vision
• Muscle spasticity
• Dizziness
• Problems with bowel or bladder control 
• Tremors
• Problems with balance and coordination
• Difficulty walking
• Optic neuritis
• Muscle weakness, numbness, or tingling, often in the hands and legs
• Changes in mood or behavior
• Cognitive dysfunction