What guidelines would you include in a list for patients to use as determining factors. Corticosteroids in one or another form are helpful in shortening the duration of acute attacks.
Most authorities now recommend treatment with intravenous methylprednisolone for acute attacks.
Currently, only the beta-interferons have proven efficacy in reducing the frequency of MS attacks. Likely, copolymer will join the beta-interferons as an FDA approved drug soon. This will provide three different drugs from two different drug classes, all of which reduce but do not eliminate attacks, and all of which may slow accumulated disability. These include drugs that may reduce fatigue, depression, and spasticity, and those that improve bladder control. All other drugs to treat MS, particularly over the long run are of uncertain benefit.