OBJECTIVES:

MS is a neurodegenerative disease that causes walking impairment. Prolonged-release (PR) fampridine (dalfampridine extended-release in US) is approved for the improvement of walking in MS patients with walking disability (EDSS 4-7). However, treatment benefits may be observed in other functions (fatigue, autonomy…). This study observed how patients’ daily life evolved following the prescription of PR-Fampridine.

METHODS:

An observational study was conducted from January to February 2018 via the French Carenity platform, an online patient community. Adult MS patients currently receiving PR-fampridine and experiencing walking impairment (EDSS 4-7) were included, and answered the online questionnaire. EDSS was self-reported by patients.

RESULTS: Among the patients taking PR-fampridine, 82% of patients noticed improvements resulting most importantly in the ability to walk without focusing (29%), greater distances (27%) and with less fatigue (24%). Improvements were greater for patients with RRMS and lower EDSS. About half of patients using walking aids, such as a cane or access ramp (71% for patients using manual wheelchair) reported less need or an easier use of these devices. When patients experienced benefits while taking PR-fampridine, these benefits were sustained over time regardless to the treatment duration.

CONCLUSIONS:

Most of MS patients with walking impairment treated with PR-fampridine report positive effects on their autonomy and daily life activities. These effects vary depending on the severity of the disease but seem to be stable over time.