Effect of Dalfamperidine on Cognitive Impairment, Gait Disorders and Fatigue in Multiple Sclerosis Patients

Abstract

Abstract Background Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one of the most common disabling diseases of the Central Nervous System (CNS) especially during early adult life. Walking impairment is considered one of the most disabling symptoms to patient with MS. The only approved treatment for impaired ambulation in MS is Dalfampridine. Objective To investigate the effect of dalfampridine on gait, cognitive functions and fatigue in Egyptian patients with multiple sclerosis. Methods This randomized double blinded placebo-controlled study was conducted on 100 patients with multiple sclerosis undergoing assessment for cognition, gait and fatigue. Results Baseline characteristics of dalfampridine group significantly showed more infratentorial lesions in MRI and lesser use of symptomatic treatment compared to placebo group. Along with visuospatial functions that was better in placebo group and even though this current study showed significant improvement in dalfampridinegroup better than placebo as concluded by increased endpoint (mean difference) between two groups. Conclusions dalfampridine may has role in improvement of total EDSS.