Research to cure MS is ongoing. There’s currently no single treatment for MS, however there are a range of medications and strategies that can improve long term outcomes.
Whether you have just been diagnosed with MS or have been living with the condition for many years, there are a range of treatments available that may help and manage your MS. Here you can find information about disease modifying treatment and symptom management.
MS is caused by damage to myelin – which protects the nerves in the brain, spinal cord and optic nerve. There are a wide range of disease-modifying therapies (also known as immunotherapies) available for people living with MS in Australia.
Disease-modifying therapies are used to slow down the progression of MS by protecting the nerves from further damage. These treatments are used to treat relapsing remitting MS (RRMS) and secondary progressive MS (SPMS). Without treatment, RRMS and SPMS can get worse.
Each medication has different side effects and risks and not all treatments are suitable for everyone. The decision of which treatment is right for you is a complex choice and it is important that people feel they have been offered the right information and choice.
For many people with MS, particularly those with RRMS, relapses are a part of their journey. A relapse is where symptoms suddenly appear or become worse, for a period of time. The symptoms usually come on very quickly over a period of hours or days.
Find out more about what a relapse is, how to recognise if you’re having one and how to manage a relapse.
Specific medications can be used to treat certain MS symptoms. Read some examples below.
| Symptom | Treatment |
|---|---|
Symptom Muscle problems |
Treatment A combination of medication may ease muscle problems, such as stiffness and tremors. Physiotherapy may also be recommended. |
Symptom Fatigue |
Treatment Some studies have found medications may help reduce fatigue. |
Symptom Visual impairment |
Treatment Steroids and other medications may help with visual disturbances. |
Symptom Incontinence |
Treatment Special exercises, medications, continence aids (such as disposable pads) and certain dietary changes. |
Symptom Depression or anxiety |
Treatment Counselling, medication, regular exercise and creating community connections. |
Symptom Memory problems and other cognitive difficulties |
Treatment Professional help from a neuropsychologist. |
You can also read more about each symptom in our common symptoms section.
Scientists are constantly researching and trialling new treatments for MS. These treatments must pass many years of tests and clinical trials before they can be used. Watch the video below to learn more about how MS treatments are developed.
This page has been reviewed and approved by Executive Manager Client Engagement and Wellbeing Jodi Haartsen. Jodi is a registered MS Nurse who has helped thousands of patients over her 20 years’ experience at Eastern Health MS service in Australia, in several roles including nurse educator, research nurse and nurse practitioner. Jodi is the 2022 winner of the global MS Brain Health Leader Award in the Independent Healthcare Professionals category.
We offer a wide range of services and support to help you manage your health and wellbeing – so you can maintain your lifestyle and achieve your goals.
Wondering where to go after receiving an MS diagnosis? Find the information and support you need to live well.
Find everything you need to know about living with MS – from managing symptoms and your emotional health to navigating employment and the NDIS.
