Recommendations for the selection, treatment, and management of patients utilizing natalizumab therapy for multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Natalizumab is an integrin receptor antagonist indicated for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). Natalizumab is indicated as monotherapy in patients who have had an inadequate response to other forms of MS treatment and is not recommended as first-line treatment because of the potential for serious adverse events associated with its use. It is critical for both physicians and patients to understand the benefits as well as the potential risks of treating MS with natalizumab. One of the serious adverse events associated with treatment with natalizumab is the possibility of developing progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). Physicians and patients must weigh the benefits of treatment against the possibility of developing PML before undergoing treatment. Proper clinical vigilance, via the Tysabri Outreach: Unified Commitment to Health (TOUCH) Prescribing Program, is currently the best method to minimize the risk of PML, associated with natalizumab therapy.