Can cladribine slow worsening of arm and hand function in people with advanced MS? The ChariotMS Trial is currently testing if a drug called Cladribine can slow down the worsening of hand and arm function for people with more advanced progressive MS.
There are currently no disease modifying therapies available for people with MS who can’t use their lower limbs at all or can only walk short distances with the help of aids like crutches.
The researchers, led by Professor Klaus Schmierer, are hoping to recruit 200 people and so far less than 50 have signed up.
Can you help?
If you have advanced progressive MS and an EDSS (Expanded Disability Status Scale) score of 6.5 to 8.5 the researchers want to hear from you. EDSS 6.5 – 8.5 means you can’t walk further than 20 meters with two crutches, or are unable to walk at all, but still have some use of your arms and hands.
You have to be 18+ to take part in this trial but there is no upper age limit.
You can live anywhere in the UK. There will be 20 trial sites including locations in London, Belfast, Cardiff and Edinburgh.
To find out more about taking part, email the trial team at chariot@qmul.ac.uk.
You can find out more on the MS Society website (who are helping to fund the research) and by reading this article on Pharmaceutical Technology website: https://www.pharmaceutical-technology.com/analysis/ms/