The Art of Multiple Sclerosis Therapies: Applying Immunologic Principles in MS

Step Status
Material
Posttest
Evaluation
Type: Enduring Material
Credit Hours: 2
Session Description:

*ONLY PHARMACISTS CAN CLAIM CREDITS FOR THIS ACTIVITY


Recently, advances in the understanding of the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis, particularly the crosstalk between B and T cells, has led to a change in therapeutic approach, with an emphasis on the use of highly active approaches earlier in the disease process. Clinicians, armed with an understanding of the differential effects of highly active regimens, including immune-reconstitution therapies (IRTs) vs maintenance therapies, can make more educated risk:benefit assessments to inform optimal strategies for initial and sequential therapy for patients with relapsing/remitting MS. As new therapies become available, this conceptual schema must expand and incorporate the newer options. While knowledge and facility in this new approach is important for neurologists, other members of the care team, including advanced practice providers, neurology nurses, pharmacists, and patients must be informed and educated in order to address the realities of shared decision making, monitoring for and management of adverse effects, drug-drug interactions, and adherence to therapy.

To address these challenges, this initiative The Art of Multiple Sclerosis Therapies: Applying Immunologic Principles in MS, will review the immunology of MS and its application in therapeutic selection. Using case examples, the faculty will address the disease, drug, and patient factors affecting the choice of initial and sequential therapies. Triple accredited for physicians, nurses, and pharmacists, this activity will appeal to the entire range of clinicians who care for MS patients. Downloadable patient education materials related to this new approach are also included.

Faculty:
Bruce A. Cohen, MD
Jacquelyn (Jacci) Bainbridge, BS Pharm, PharmD, FCCP, MSCS
Amy Perrin Ross, RN, MSN, CNRN, MSCN




Learning Objectives:

  • Describe the current understanding of the immune-pathophysiology of MS
  • Categorize disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) in terms of immune reconstitution therapies vs maintenance regimens, with an eye toward their immunosuppressive properties
  • Analyze disease, therapeutic, and patient factors impacting the choice of initial and sequential therapy for relapsing/remitting MS
  • Tailor DMT for patients with MS based on an informed risk-benefit analysis
  • Educate patients to understand the principles of immune reconstitution therapy and adhere to the regimens

Continuing Pharmacy Education

The Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers (CMSC) is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) as a provider of continuing pharmacy education and will award 2 contact hours (0.2 CEUs) to pharmacists who (1) complete the activity, (2) submit a passing post-test, and (3) complete the evaluation form. The Universal Activity Number (UAN) for this activity is JA4008165-9999-20-003-H01-P. This is a knowledge-based activity.

Upon successful completion of the activity, your CE credits will be submitted electronically to the NABP CPE Monitor service. For information about CPE Monitor, visit https://nabp.pharmacy/cpe-monitor-service/

Credit Types

ACPE:  2.00

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