Research study to launch app trial to help manage MS fatigue

BSc Placement Student Marnie Horncastle explains how they are aiming to help people with fatigue take back control

REFUEL-MS is an exciting 5.5-year research programme led by Professor Rona Moss-Morris at King’s College London. Funded by the MS Society and National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). REFUEL-MS focuses on tackling fatigue, a debilitating and often invisible symptom that affects over 90% of people living with multiple sclerosis (MS).

MS-related fatigue is more than just feeling tired – it’s a persistent exhaustion that does not improve with rest and significantly impacts daily life. Yet, fewer than one-third of those affected are offered treatment in routine care.

To address this, our team has developed an app-based digital treatment that combines evidence-based approaches including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exercise and balance techniques. The app provides personalised support to help individuals manage their fatigue effectively, with guidance from a dedicated healthcare professional, to focus on what matters to that person most.

Inclusivity and collaboration are at the heart of REFUEL-MS. Since the beginning, REFUEL-MS has been co-produced by a dedicated patient advisory group (PAG.) Collaborators with expertise in patient engagement in under-represented groups helped shape the app the reflect the real, diverse needs of the MS community.

What’s next – clinical trial

In early 2025, we are launching a clinical trial to evaluate the app’s effectiveness, cost-efficiency, and the potential for adoption into the NHS. The trial will involve around 380 people living with MS, with participants randomly split into two groups. One will continue with their usual care, while the other will use the REFUEL-MS app for 16 weeks, completing weekly sessions on a smartphone or tablet from home.

Throughout the trial, all participants will be asked questions to determine the REFUEL-MS app’s impact. Participants will be recruited through the UK MS Register (UKMSR), Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, and community outreach. If you or someone you know might be interested in taking part, follow us on social media, email refuel-ms.trial@kcl.ac.uk or join the UKMSR for updates.

Other ways to get involved

There are many ways to contribute to the REFUEL-MS programme. Whether you’re living with MS, a caregiver, or simply passionate about advancing MS research, your involvement can make a real difference. If you’re interested in learning more about the regular patient advisory group (PAG) or ad hoc opportunities through our public and patient involvement group (PPI), feel free to email us at refuel-ms@kcl.ac.uk

To stay updated on all things REFUEL-MS, visit our website at www.refuel-ms.com. There, you can sign up for our newsletter and find links to follow us on social media. By connecting with us, you’ll get the latest news, updates, and opportunities to be part of our journey toward improving life with MS.

Case study

Jyotika, who lives with relapsing remitting MS, says the following about the app

“Living with MS has shaped so much of my daily life, especially when it comes to managing fatigue. Coming from a Hindu culture and background, I’ve found that balancing expectations and understanding my limits can sometimes be challenging, especially when fatigue feels invisible to those around me, as MS was hardly ever spoken about let alone being associated with it which was such a taboo topic. I love how Refuel MS provides focused, guided streams tailored to specific needs. The different screens the app has have been a game-changer for me because it easily helps me navigate and find things quickly. It aids ways for me to reset mentally, track my progress, or feel more in control. In the long run, I hope Refuel MS will help me maintain a better balance in life.”