Real-world effectiveness of horizontal switching between disease-modifying therapies in multiple sclerosis: a retrospective analysis of the MSBase Registry.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Switching disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) is common in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Vertical switching to higher-efficacy agents generally outperforms horizontal switching within the same efficacy tier, yet horizontal switches remain frequent where escalation is impractical.

Objectives

To compare real-world outcomes after horizontal versus vertical DMT switches and to identify predictors of successful horizontal switching.

Design

Retrospective, registry-based observational study.

Methods

Adults with RRMS who switched DMTs in the MSBase Registry (2010-2023) were analyzed. Horizontal switches were defined as transitions within efficacy tiers, and vertical switches as transitions to a higher tier. Propensity score matching (1:1) gen

SUBMITTER: Gomez-Figueroa E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12744030 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature