Possible new treatment for MS on the horizon

A new less expensive, more convenient treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS) could be on the horizon.

Ublituximad, made by TG Therapeutics, has been shown to significantly reduce the annualised relapse rate in people with relapsing MS when compared with teriflunomide in a recent phase three trial.

Ublituximad is a glycoengineered anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody – glycoengineering means scientists changed protein-associated carbohydrates which alters its pharmacokinetic properties.

If the US Food and Drug Administration approve the drug, it will be the only glycoengineered anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody for MS.

There are other anti-CD20 drugs for MS but they need four-hour-long infusions, which can be inconvenient. Ublituximad needs much less time.

The findings were presented at the virtual Congress of the European Academy of Neurology 2021.