Evaluating the Impact of Teriflunomide and Dimethyl Fumarate on Quality of Life in Relapsing-remitting Multiple Sclerosis: Insights from Eastern Saudi Arabia.

Abstract

Introduction: Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) is a chronic neurological condition prevalent in Saudi Arabia. It causes a spectrum of neurological impairments that result in functional limitations and disability. The physical and psychological burdens of multiple sclerosis (MS) significantly impact patients' health-related quality of life (HRQoL). However, research evaluating its effects on HRQoL within the Saudi context remains scarce. This study aimed to compare HRQoL among RRMS patients undergoing treatment with teriflunomide or dimethyl fumarate and identify factors influencing treatment outcomes.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study involving all MS patients was conducted at King Fahd Hospital of the University from November 2022 to April 2023. Participants were categorized into two groups based on their treatment: those receiving teriflunomide and those on dimethyl fumarate. Data were collected using the EQ-5D-5L questionnaire.

Results: Of the 280 patients invited, 82 RRMS patients met the inclusion criteria, comprising 28 males and 54 females, with most participants over 40. Approximately 43.9% were treated with teriflunomide, whereas 56.1% received dimethyl fumarate. No statistically significant differences were found in the three health indicators assessed between the two treatment groups. Nonetheless, the descriptive analysis indicated that RRMS patients on dimethyl fumarate reported superior health outcomes to those on teriflunomide.

Conclusion: The study revealed that patients with RRMS in the dimethyl fumarate and teriflunomide treatment groups reported low physical and mental HRQoL. While no statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups, those receiving dimethyl fumarate indicated a better QoL than their counterparts on teriflunomide. Future research is necessary to identify specific gaps that could facilitate improvements in HRQoL among RRMS patients. Furthermore, the findings from this study may inform the development and implementation of targeted intervention programs aimed at enhancing HRQoL for RRMS patients within the Saudi population.