Cognitive dysfunction in multiple sclerosis: the effect of pharmacological interventions

Abstract

Research has recently focused on cognitive dysfunction in multiple sclerosis (MS). Cognitive deficits are frequently encountered in patients and account for important impairment in quality of life, therefore posing a major therapeutic challenge for the disease. We presently review studies on cognitive effects of pharmacological treatments in MS. There is evidence for a possible beneficial effect of immunomodulatory treatments, particularly of interferons, and also of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors on cognition in MS, which, however, requires evaluation in larger, multi-centre, longitudinal studies. Methodological issues and future prospects regarding the investigation of this issue are also discussed.