Neurológia pre prax 1/2014

Treatment of multiple sclerosis in Czech Republic – options and reality

Treatment options in multiple sclerosis have expanded considerably in the recent years. In 2013, several new effective drugs were registered and more will be introduced in therapeutic practice in the coming years. However, the availability of drugs is limited due to restrictions of health care payers. Reimbursement regulations are often in conflict with evidence-based medicine. This article deals with both the good prospects in treating multiple sclerosis including an overview of new drugs and the current situation in the Czech Republic. The article presents specific cases of discrepancy between therapeutic options and the clinical reality.

Keywords: multiple sclerosis, clinically isolated syndrome, interferon beta, glatiramer acetate, natalizumab, fingolimod, indication restrictions.