Multiple Sclerosis and Clinical Gait Analysis before and after Fampridine: A Systematic Review

Eur Neurol. 2017;78(5-6):272-286. doi: 10.1159/000480729. Epub 2017 Oct 9.

Abstract

Background: Gait impairment is one of the most disabling symptoms in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Fampridine, has demonstrated a positive effect on gait speed in PwMS after 14 days of treatment but the long-term effects have not yet been demonstrated. This study reviews the long-term effects of fampridine on gait in PwMS.

Summary: This systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA statement. Studies were considered long term if treatment exceeded 28 days. From the 498 studies identified, 18 (2,200 patients) fulfilled all eligibility criteria. Only 3 studies followed-up patients for >1 year and one of these showed a non-significant improvement in the gait speed. Key Messages: Fampridine seems to be beneficial at improving gait speed in PwMS in the long term. Further long-term studies are needed on related gait and functional parameters.

Keywords: Fampridine; Gait; Long term; Multiple sclerosis.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • 4-Aminopyridine / therapeutic use*
  • Adult
  • Female
  • Gait / drug effects*
  • Gait Disorders, Neurologic / drug therapy*
  • Gait Disorders, Neurologic / etiology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Multiple Sclerosis / complications*
  • Potassium Channel Blockers / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Potassium Channel Blockers
  • 4-Aminopyridine