Characterization of the Effects of Prolonged-release Fampridine on Ambulatory Function in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis

Summary

The objective of the present investigator-initiated mono-center trial to be performed at the Department of Neurology of the University Hospital Zurich is a detailed characterization of the effects of prolonged-release fampridine on walking function of 50-70 patients with MS. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study with cross-over design, changes of essential gait elements such as stability, coordination, correct loading, posture or endurance in addition to walking speed after treatment with prolonged-release fampridine will be investigated using a comprehensive kinematic gait analysis protocol. This protocol comprises outcome parameters ranging from very specific and sensitive biomechanical measures to clinically meaningful indicators of improved ambulatory function. Kinematic, kinetic and electromyographic gait parameters will be assessed during treadmill walking (primary outcome parameters). Changes in overground walking capacity will be investigated by means of different functional walking tests (e.g. six minute walk test). Furthermore, the patient's perception of the effects of the treatment on walking function will be evaluated by a standardized questionnaire. Changes of global ambulatory activity will be assessed (Actimeter) indicating a successful translation of improved gait (sub-)functions due to prolonged-release fampridine treatment into everyday life. The study will last for a period of 18 weeks, excluding the screening period. Based on the mechanism of action, the investigators hypothesize that treatment with prolonged-release fampridine will not only improve walking speed, but also clinically more meaningful features of walking function in patients with MS. * Trial with medicinal product

Timeline

Start

2012-03

Primary completion

2017-04

Completion

2017-04

Publications

• Zorner B, Hostettler P, Meyer C, Killeen T, Gut P, Linnebank M, Weller M, Straumann D, Filli L. Prognosis of walking function in multiple sclerosis supported by gait pattern analysis. Mult Scler Relat Disord. 2022 Jul;63:103802. doi: 10.1016/j.msard.2022.103802. Epub 2022 Apr 10.
• Weller D, Filli L, Meyer C, Lorincz L, Linnebank M, Weller M, Curt A, Zorner B. Impaired speed-dependent modulation of the gait pattern in multiple sclerosis. J Neurol. 2020 Oct;267(10):2998-3007. doi: 10.1007/s00415-020-09965-3. Epub 2020 Jun 4.
• Filli L, Werner J, Beyer G, Reuter K, Petersen JA, Weller M, Zorner B, Linnebank M. Predicting responsiveness to fampridine in gait-impaired patients with multiple sclerosis. Eur J Neurol. 2019 Feb;26(2):281-289. doi: 10.1111/ene.13805. Epub 2018 Oct 7.
• Filli L, Zorner B, Kapitza S, Reuter K, Lorincz L, Weller D, Sutter T, Killeen T, Gruber P, Petersen JA, Weller M, Linnebank M. Monitoring long-term efficacy of fampridine in gait-impaired patients with multiple sclerosis. Neurology. 2017 Feb 28;88(9):832-841. doi: 10.1212/WNL.0000000000003656. Epub 2017 Feb 1.
• Zorner B, Filli L, Reuter K, Kapitza S, Lorincz L, Sutter T, Weller D, Farkas M, Easthope CS, Czaplinski A, Weller M, Linnebank M. Prolonged-release fampridine in multiple sclerosis: Improved ambulation effected by changes in walking pattern. Mult Scler. 2016 Oct;22(11):1463-1475. doi: 10.1177/1352458515622695. Epub 2016 Jan 13.

Drugs

Indications