Clinical outcomes in patients who discontinue natalizumab therapy after 2 years in the Tysabri® Observational Program (TOP)

Abstract

Background: Natalizumab is a highly efficacious therapy for relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Patients who discontinue natalizumab may experience return of MS disease activity. Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze predictors of post-natalizumab disease activity return. Methods: The Tysabri® Observational Program (TOP) is an ongoing observational study of natalizumab-treated RRMS patients. Patients discontinuing natalizumab are encouraged to remain in TOP. Results: Analyses included 3221 TOP patients. After ⩾2 years on natalizumab, relapse risk was twice as high for patients who switched to an oral therapy (n = 660, hazard ratio (HR) = 2.18, p < 0.001) and three times ..