چكيده لاتين :
BACKGROUND:To study the dimensions of fatigue in multiple sclerosis, its pathophysiology, the efficacy, tolerability
and safety of drug and non-drug treatments and measurement of fatigue.
METHODS: Relevant articles from PubMed and Google scholar search engines from January 1987 until September 2006
were studied to compose a short clinical update (not a systematic review) and make the required clinical information
available for the clinicians.
RESULTS: There is evidence that fatigue is very common in all types and stages of multiple sclerosis, but its pathophysiology
is not well explained. Consequently, few drug options have been offered for its treatment. Amantadine is the bestknown
drug, though its efficacy and duration of action are limited. Pemoline and modafinil are alternatives and have
some effects on fatigue. DAP (diaminopyridine), ASA (acetylsalicylic acid), methylphenidate and fluoxetine are other
possible options but await further confirmation. Neurorehabilitation, regular exercise and cooling are confirmed to be of
value in MS treatment. Measurement of fatigue is a complicated issue. At present fatigue does not have a laboratory
marker.
CONCLUSIONS: The results of this short clinical update provide guidelines for diagnosing MS-related fatigue and differentiating
it from other similar physical and psychological conditions. It also examines prescription drug options and
other therapies for MS patients with fatigue
