Teriflunomide (Aubagio) for the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis
June 2014
in “
Experimental Neurology
”
Studysummary This review outlines the main findings from clinical trials on teriflunomide's efficacy and safety for relapsing multiple sclerosis, noting clinical considerations and exploring its mechanisms based on various studies.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
The document reviews the efficacy and safety of Teriflunomide (Aubagio®) for the treatment of relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), highlighting its mechanism of action as an inhibitor of the enzyme dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH), which affects the proliferation of activated lymphocytes. Clinical trials, including TEMSO, TOWER, TENERE, TERACLES, and TOPIC, with patient numbers ranging from 118 to 1169, demonstrated that Teriflunomide reduces annualized relapse rates and MRI measures of disease activity, delays disability progression, and is generally well-tolerated with a manageable safety profile. Common adverse events included mild infections, fatigue, diarrhea, sensory disturbances, hair thinning, and liver enzyme increases, but serious infections were rare. The drug is contraindicated in pregnancy and requires liver monitoring. Overall, Teriflunomide offers a valuable oral treatment option for MS, with benefits over first-line injectable therapies.
