Association of Vitamin D Levels With Multiple Sclerosis Activity and Progression in Patients Receiving Interferon Beta-1b

This cohort study among participants in the BEYOND study (Phase III study evaluating interferon beta-1b in patients with clinically isolated syndromes and early MS) found that average 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were inversely correlated with the cumulative number of new lesions.

In this study, no significant associations were found between 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels and change in brain volume, relapse rates, or Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores.

 

The researchers discuss the limitations of their study; for example unmeasured confounding cannot be ruled out, the follow-up was relatively short (may explain the lack of association between serum 25(OH)D levels and clinical end points), and the results may not be generalisable to patients who receive other drugs.

 

They conclude from their findings that adequate vitamin D status appears to be an important determinant of MS activity, and that individuals with MS may benefit from vitamin D levels above those currently considered by many to be sufficient in healthy adults. They go on to note that several ongoing trials are currently evaluating the effect of supplementary vitamin D in patients with relapsing-remitting MS and these will help to determine causality.