Chronotherapy using corticosteroids for multiple sclerosis relapses. Issue 8 (20th October 2006)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Glass-Marmor, Lea; Paperna, Tamar; Ben-Yosef, Yaara; Miller, Ariel
• Is Part Of: Journal of neurology, neurosurgery and psychiatry. Volume 78:Issue 8(2007)
• Page Start: 886
• Page End: 888
• Publication Date: 2006-10-20
• Subjects: EDSS, Expanded Disability Status Scale -- IVMP, intravenous methylprednisolone; Neurology -- Periodicals; Nervous system -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.8
• DOI: 10.1136/jnnp.2006.104000
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-3050

Abstract

Abstract : Background: The activity of the immune system displays a circadian rhythm. In diseases characterised by aberrant immune activity, chronotherapy (a treatment regimen tailored to diurnal body rhythms) may increase the efficiency, safety and tolerability of drugs. Aim: To compare the outcomes of intravenous corticosteroid administration during the day or night, for treatment of acute multiple sclerosis relapses. Methods: 17 patients with multiple sclerosis were included in the study. Clinical assessment of disability was performed at trial entry, and at days 7 and 30 from the initiation of treatment. Adverse events and preference of night-time versus daytime treatment were assessed at the end of the treatment course. Results: After night-time treatment, clinical recovery was significantly (p<0.001) enhanced and the mean number of side effects was significantly (p = 0.007) lower. Furthermore, most patients expressed a preference for night-time versus daytime treatment. Conclusions: The study suggests a potential benefit for implementation of chronotherapy using steroid treatment for acute multiple sclerosis relapse, with implications for other immune-mediated disorders.