Real-World Comparison of Dimethyl Fumarate and Teriflunomide for Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis

Few head-to-head studies of multiple sclerosis (MS) treatments are available. To compare efficacy outcomes with dimethyl fumarate (DMF) versus with teriflunomide (TFL), investigators assessed data from the Danish MS Registry. Of 2236 patients, 1469 were on TFL and 767 on DMF. Statistical analyses included a propensity score with multivariable logistic modeling. Average follow-up was 2.0 years.

Adjusted annualized relapses rates were 0.19 for TFL and 0.11 for DMF. Mean Expanded Disability Status Scale score changes were minimal: 0.03 for TFL and −0.02 for DMF. DMF-treated patients were 7% more likely to remain free of 6-month confirmed disability worsening than TFL-treated patients at 4 years. Discontinuation for disease breakthrough was 22% …