Aubagio is a medication specifically designed to help people with multiple sclerosis (MS) by reducing the frequency of relapses. Relapses in MS are episodes where symptoms suddenly worsen or new symptoms appear, caused by inflammation and damage to the nervous system. Aubagio works by modifying the immune system to reduce this inflammatory activity, which in turn helps prevent these relapses from occurring.
The active ingredient in Aubagio is teriflunomide. Teriflunomide works by inhibiting the function of certain immune cells, particularly T and B lymphocytes, which are involved in the autoimmune attack on the nervous system seen in MS. By limiting the proliferation of these cells, Aubagio reduces the immune system’s ability to cause inflammation and damage to nerve fibers. This mechanism helps lower the chance of relapse and slows the progression of disability associated with MS.
Clinical studies have shown that Aubagio effectively reduces relapse rates in people with relapsing forms of MS. Patients taking Aubagio typically experience fewer relapses compared to those not on treatment or on placebo. This reduction in relapse frequency is important because each relapse can potentially cause lasting damage to the nervous system, leading to increased disability over time. Therefore, by preventing relapses, Aubagio helps protect long-term neurological function.
In addition to relapse prevention, Aubagio has been found to have some effect on slowing disability progression, although this effect is generally more modest compared to its impact on relapse frequency. Disability progression in MS refers to the gradual worsening of neurological function independent of relapses, often due to ongoing nerve damage and degeneration. While Aubagio’s primary benefit is in reducing relapses, its ability to slow disability progression adds to its overall therapeutic value.
Aubagio is taken orally once daily, which makes it a convenient option for many patients. Its side effect profile is generally manageable, but like all medications, it can cause adverse effects in some people. Common side effects include hair thinning, diarrhea, nausea, and elevated liver enzymes. Because it affects the immune system, patients on Aubagio require regular monitoring by their healthcare provider to check liver function and blood counts.
It is important to understand that while Aubagio helps reduce the risk of relapse, it does not cure MS or completely stop disease activity. MS is a complex and variable disease, and treatment responses can differ widely among individuals. Some patients may experience breakthrough relapses or continued progression despite treatment, which may require adjustments in therapy.
In the broader context of MS treatment, Aubagio is one of several disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) available. Each DMT has a different mechanism of action, efficacy profile, and safety considerations. The choice of using Aubagio or another DMT depends on factors such as disease severity, patient preferences, potential side effects, and other health considerations. Physicians often weigh these factors carefully to tailor treatment plans that best suit each individual’s needs.
In summary, Aubagio helps with relapse prevention by modulating the immune system to reduce inflammatory attacks on the nervous system. This leads to fewer relapses and can slow the progression of disability to some extent. Its oral administration and relatively favorable safety profile make it a commonly prescribed option for people with relapsing MS. However, ongoing monitoring and individualized treatment decisions remain essential to optimize outcomes for those living with MS.
