What are the potential risks of using immunosuppressive therapies in MS?

Immunosuppressive therapies are often utilized in the management of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) to modulate the immune response. However, one of the notable risks associated with these therapies is an increased susceptibility to infections and a potential elevation in the risk of malignancies. This occurs because immunosuppressive drugs inhibit the immune system's ability to respond to pathogens effectively, leaving the patient more vulnerable to infections that a healthy immune system would typically handle.

Moreover, the long-term impact of these therapies may include a higher likelihood of developing certain types of cancers due to impaired immune surveillance, which typically helps detect and eliminate abnormal cells. Therefore, while these therapies may provide benefits in terms of controlling MS activity and preventing relapses, clinicians must carefully consider these significant risks when prescribing immunosuppressive treatments to ensure proper monitoring and management of the patient's overall health.