Multiple Sclerosis Therapeutic Market Trends

Growth Drivers

• Increasing funding and investments in MS treatments: Both private and public sectors are increasing their financial support for MS research, leading to the development of advanced treatment options. Governments particularly in regions such as North America and Europe are providing grants and subsidies to support the development of novel therapies. Additionally, non-profit organizations and patient advocacy groups are raising significant funds to fuel research and awareness campaigns. Pharmaceutical companies are also increasing investments in the multiple sclerosis therapeutic market. This surge is ultimately driving the competitive dynamics in the MS market, improving access to cutting-edge treatments.  For instance, in June 2024, Progentos Therapeutics received USD 65 million in funding to advance the development of myelin regeneration treatments for multiple sclerosis.
• Rising R&D activities in the market: The pipeline for MS drugs is robust, with numerous candidates in various stages of clinical trials. As many as 24 MS clinical trials are in progress at the University of California San Francisco, in September 2024. R&D is significantly driving the exploration of combination therapies, new formulations, and biomarkers to personalize treatment. This is aimed at ensuring that patients receive therapies best suited to specific genetic and disease profiles. The surge in R&D activities is enhancing competition, fostering dynamic multiple sclerosis therapeutic market growth, in addition to expanding treatment options. In August 2020, Sanofi announced the acquisition of Principia Biopharma which owns a portfolio of experimental multiple sclerosis treatment. The acquisition aims to enhance research activities in MS and other immune-mediated diseases.

Challenges

• High treatment expenses: MS treatment cost remains an endless challenge to the multiple sclerosis therapeutic market growth despite the high occurrence of the disease. It makes access to innovative treatments difficult for several patients, particularly in regions with limited health coverage or lower income levels. Even in developed economies, the financial burden can strain the insurance systems, leading to restricted reimbursement policies and limiting patient access. All these factors therefore pose a threat to the market, globally, limiting multiple sclerosis therapeutic market expansion and adoption.
• Medication-associated side effects: Several available multiple sclerosis therapies can cause a range of advanced reactions. Common effects of DMTs include flu-like symptoms, injection site reactions, fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues. Monoclonal antibodies like ocrelizumab and ofatumumab increase the infection risk due to their immunosuppressive effects, leading to respiratory infections. This emphasizes the importance of thorough patient education, regular monitoring, and supportive care to manage the side effects. Lack of these leads to lesser adoption of the treatments.