It is undoubtedly true that we are in a very exciting phase of development of DMTs. Although we cannot yet talk about a cure, we can now consider seriously the possibility of slowing down the course of the disease and not just ameliorating the symptoms of relapses. However, the results of research so far seem to suggest that the earlier the current DMTs (the interferons and glatiramer acetate) are given in the course of the disease, the more effect they are likely to have. One current controversy is how early these drugs should be given. Some believe that
they should be given at the very earliest sign of MS, others that these drugs should wait upon a full and clear diagnosis on more comprehensive criteria. Their cost is a major issue, particularly in relation to medium- and long-term benefits that have not yet been fully proven, and is a significant factor that has had to be considered by every healthcare system.
For people whose MS is more advanced, and particularly is progressive in nature, the effects of these DMTs seem to be very substantially less. As such people form the majority of those with MS at any one time, then many people will still feel disappointed that few possibilities exist for them in controlling their disease. However, there is very active research being undertaken at the moment to evaluate whether different combinations of any of the current DMTs could affect the course of Multiple Sclerosis for such people.