A retrospective observational study depicted that in people diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, natalizumab is effective, has an acceptable safety profile, and can be given with good tolerability for a longer period.  Investigators undertook this study to report the real-world data regarding the long-term use of natalizumab for multiple sclerosis management.

The study included 51 multiple sclerosis people (62.74% females) who underwent treatment with ≥ 24 natalizumab infusions. The mean disease duration was 9.86±0.7 years and the mean number of natalizumab infusions was 45.58±2.74. Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) values, relapse rate, rate of adverse events, and type of adverse events linked with natalizumab use were assessed.

An increased number of people (80.39%) were relapse-free. Furthermore, a mild decrease in mean EDSS value was noted after natalizumab commencement in people who had not been administered other disease modifying therapies anteriorly. Increased liver transaminases (13.72%), dysmenorrhea (1 patient), and local infections (7.84%) were noted.

The rate of serious side effects was noted to be 3.92. No cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy were witnessed. Thus, the long-term administration of humanized monoclonal antibody natalizumab is effective, safe, and well-tolerated in people suffering from relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. However, the patients must be closely monitored, concluded the study authors.