
Treating progressive MS
To get this drug you must be early on in your MS. Active inflammation must also be seen on your MRI scans. And your score on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) must be between 3 and 6.5 (a score over 6.5 means you use a wheelchair all the time). This drug is called ocrelizumab (Ocrevus).
Unfortunately there are still no DMTs available yet for other types of progressive MS which don’t show signs of active inflammation on MRI scans, or don’t cause relapses. But there are other treatments and techniques to manage your condition.
They include a wide range of treatments for individual symptoms which you can discuss with your health professionals. Your options include:
- symptom management - this could be drug treatments, rehabilitation therapies (like physiotherapy or cognitive behavioural therapy) or a combination of the two
- avoiding complications - like making sure you seek treatment for bladder infections
- managing your symptoms - for example trying our exercises for fatigue
- looking after your general health and well being - we can help with information on diet and exercise.
If your symptoms are changing, you can ask for a review with your health professional, if you don't already have an appointment coming soon.
Find out more about

Treatments for balance problems
There are a few things you can try to improve your balance and mobility. Read about physio, walking aids and other ways to manage the symptom.
More about treating balance problems
Managing bladder problems
There are lots of way to manage bladder problems in MS. Read about drug treatments, catheters, Botox and more.
Find out about managing bladder problems
Managing fatigue
Fatigue is a common MS symptom. Find out ways to manage it, including exercise, drugs and healthy eating.
Read more about managing fatigue
Treating and managing tremor
Managing tremor is an ongoing process. As there is no single approach that works for everyone, you will probably need to try different things before you find what works best. You may need to try different approaches at different times, and as your needs change.
Read more about managing tremor
Tips for dealing with memory and thinking problems
Memory and thinking problems can be frustrating. Read tips and advice for managing cognitive trouble.
More about coping with memory problems
Mental health
The emotional effects of MS often go undiagnosed, but there are ways to manage them. Find out about coping with mental health challenges, including depression, stress and anxiety.
Read more about MS and mental health
Pain
A lot of people with MS experience pain at some time. It varies from person to person and over time, but drug treatments and other therapies can help you cope.
Read more about pain
Sex and relationships
Sex isn't always straightforward at the best of times and MS can throw extra challenges into the mix. But however MS affects you, there are ways to enjoy sex and intimacy.
Read more about sex and MS
Treating spasms and stiffness
There's a range of ways to treat spasms and stiffness in MS. Find out more about your options, including physiotherapy, drug treatments, and electrical stimulation.
More about treating spasms and stiffnessYou may also be interested in

Ocrelizumab campaign win
We did it! Ocrelizumab has been approved to be available on the NHS for people with early primary progressive MS in England. This is a landmark moment in MS treatment.
Read about our ocrelizumab campaign
Emotional support
Support for people living with MS including coping with diagnosis, telling people you have MS, our MS Helpline and getting help.
Get emotional support
What we're doing about progressive MS
More and more research into understanding and treating progressive MS is being done – and now there’s real momentum and hope of finding new treatments.
Explore what we're doing about progressive MS
Getting treatment for MS
You have the right to ask about treatment for your MS. This is true no matter what kind of MS you have - or how long you’ve had it.
Read more about getting treatment
Financial help
Find out more about disability benefits, the grants we provide and other financial support for people with MS.
Find out what financial help you can apply for
Physiotherapy
A physiotherapist works with people with MS to assess physical difficulties and help improve movement and other functions of the body.
Read more about physiotherapy