What role do corticosteroids play in Multiple Sclerosis treatment?

Corticosteroids play a significant role in the management of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) by primarily decreasing inflammation and aiding in recovery from acute exacerbations or relapses. During these acute episodes, inflammation in the central nervous system can worsen symptoms and lead to further neurological damage. Corticosteroids, such as methylprednisolone, are effective in rapidly reducing this inflammation, helping to restore functional ability and improve symptoms more quickly than would occur without treatment. This is particularly crucial in cases where quick recovery is needed to minimize disability and improve quality of life.

The action of corticosteroids supports a short-term management strategy rather than long-term disease modification. They do not prevent new lesions from forming or manage the overall progression of the disease in the way that disease-modifying therapies do. Additionally, while corticosteroids can support recovery, they do not enhance the effects of disease-modifying treatments; their primary role is symptom management during flare-ups rather than altering the underlying disease course. This makes corticosteroids a vital tool in the acute management of MS, targeting immediate inflammatory responses.