Could HIV drugs help treat multiple sclerosis?

Conclusion This large cohort study indicates people with HIV appear to be at a lower risk of developing MS. It is not known what causes this association, but possible reasons put forward by the researchers include: immunodeficiency caused by HIV may stop the body attacking itself in the autoimmune condition MS antiretroviral therapy may suppress other viruses in the body, such as those that have been suggested as causing MS Strengths of the study include the large sample size and the very large number of controls, which would limit any bias by confounding factors. However, the study did have a few limitations: Although the overall study period was 12 years, people were recruited to the study at any point during this time, so the follow-up period for some would have been very short. The development of MS usually occurs between the ages of 20 and 40, but both cohort groups encompassed people of all ages. Data was lacking on the use of antiretroviral medication, such as the type and length of time of the treatment. There was limited data on ethnicity and this therefore couldn't fully be adjusted for. However, the researchers report the reduction in risk doesn't seem to be limited to one ethnic group.  Overall, this interesting study paves the way for clinical trials to be conducted on the use of antiretroviral medication for people with MS. Analysis by Bazian. Edited by NHS Choices. Follow Behind the Headlines on Twitter. Join the Healthy Evide...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Medication Neurology Source Type: news