This time the focus is on alemtuzumab (Lemtrada, Campath). It is one of the highly effective immunotherapies and, in a subgroup of patients with highly active MS, even enables disease activity to be halted for more than five years. Due to its long-lasting effects on the immune system and sometimes severe side effects, it is used relatively sparingly.

It is used as a disease-modifying therapy for active multiple sclerosis, both in relapsing forms and, following FDA approval, also in active SPMS.

Due to its mechanism of action, alemtuzumab leads to immediate immune cell depletion of CD52-positive immune cells (primarily T cells and B cells). It is therefore used, for example, in patients with massive inflammatory activity who are at risk of a rapid increase in disability.

Please remember that I can only provide an overview here. Your neurologist and your MS nurse should advise you in detail about the right therapy for you. This is because they know your general state of health and you should also talk about your goals, wishes, fears and preferences so that these can be taken into account.