What is the mechanism of action of this treatment?

Common treatments for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) include disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) such as interferons, glatiramer acetate, and oral medications like dimethyl fumarate. These treatments work by modulating the immune system to reduce inflammation and prevent immune cells from attacking the myelin sheath, which is crucial for nerve function. Behavioral interventions, like the eHAPA-MS online intervention, aim to promote physical activity and reduce sedentary behavior, which can help manage symptoms and improve overall quality of life. These approaches are important for MS patients as they can complement pharmacologic treatments by enhancing physical and mental well-being, potentially leading to better disease outcomes.

What side effects are associated with this type of intervention?

Non-pharmacologic treatments for Multiple Sclerosis, such as physical activity and online behavioral programs like the eHAPA-MS intervention, generally have fewer side effects compared to disease-modifying therapies. Common side effects of these lifestyle interventions may include temporary muscle soreness, fatigue, or injury if not performed correctly. These interventions are typically well-tolerated and can improve overall well-being and mobility in MS patients.

What prior FDA approvals exist?

The FDA has approved several treatments for Multiple Sclerosis (MS), primarily focusing on disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) such as glatiramer acetate, dimethyl fumarate, and natalizumab, which aim to reduce relapse rates and slow disease progression. However, treatments specifically targeting behavioral changes, like the eHAPA-MS online intervention, are less common. The eHAPA-MS intervention focuses on promoting physical activity through behavioral change, which is a complementary approach to pharmacological treatments. While the FDA has not specifically approved behavioral interventions for MS, such approaches are increasingly recognized as valuable adjuncts to traditional therapies, helping to improve overall patient outcomes and quality of life.

What other types of research exist?

Promising alternatives to the eHAPA-MS online intervention for MS patients include: 1) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for managing insomnia and psychological well-being, which has shown improvements in sleep-related quality of life and insomnia symptoms. 2) Integrative treatment approaches combining conventional and alternative therapies, as initiated by the Danish Multiple Sclerosis Society, which focus on personalized care. 3) Physical activity programs, such as group physiotherapy and specialized exercise regimens, which have been shown to improve mood, mobility, and overall health in patients with neurological conditions. These alternatives offer comprehensive support for managing MS symptoms and enhancing patient well-being.

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Behavioral Intervention

Online Physical Activity Intervention for Multiple Sclerosis (eHAPA-MS Trial)

N/A

Recruiting

Led By Chungyi Chiu, PhD

Research Sponsored by University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Eligibility Criteria Checklist

Specific guidelines that determine who can or cannot participate in a clinical trial

Must have

Participants are 18 years old and above

Be older than 18 years old

Timeline

Screening 3 weeks

Treatment Varies

Follow Up through study completion, an average of 1 month

Awards & highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

Summary

This trial is testing an online program designed to help people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) become more physically active. The program offers personalized advice and support to help users set and achieve their exercise goals. The study aims to see how effective this approach is and how well participants stick to it.

Who is the study for?

This trial is for adults over 18 with Multiple Sclerosis who haven't had a relapse in the last 30 days. They should be able to walk (with or without help), not currently active (less than 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most days), and have safe levels for exercise. Participants need internet access, as they'll complete online surveys and wear an activity tracker.

What is being tested?

The study tests an online program called eHAPA-MS designed to encourage physical activity among people with Multiple Sclerosis. It's based on the Health Action Process Approach, which focuses on personal motivation and planning. Participants will either receive this intervention or be placed in a control group by chance.

What are the potential side effects?

Since this trial involves an online educational program rather than medication, traditional side effects are not expected. However, participants may experience discomfort from increased physical activity if they're not used to it.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion Criteria

You may be eligible if you check “Yes” for the criteria below

Select...

I am 18 years old or older.

Timeline

Screening ~ 3 weeks3 visits

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~ through study completion, an average of 1 month

Screening ~ 3 weeks

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~through study completion, an average of 1 month

This trial's timeline: 3 weeks for screening, Varies for treatment, and through study completion, an average of 1 month for reporting.

Treatment Details

Study Objectives

Study objectives can provide a clearer picture of what you can expect from a treatment.

Primary study objectives

The Health Action Process Approach Battery

Awards & Highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

All patients enrolled in this study will receive some form of active treatment.

Trial Design

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: MSPA eClassExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Group II: Waiting listActive Control1 Intervention

0 / 1Eligibility criteria met

Research Highlights

Information in this section is not a recommendation. We encourage patients to speak with their healthcare team when evaluating any treatment decision.

Mechanism Of Action

Side Effect Profile

Prior Approvals

Other Research

Common treatments for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) include disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) such as interferons, glatiramer acetate, and oral medications like dimethyl fumarate. These treatments work by modulating the immune system to reduce inflammation and prevent immune cells from attacking the myelin sheath, which is crucial for nerve function. Behavioral interventions, like the eHAPA-MS online intervention, aim to promote physical activity and reduce sedentary behavior, which can help manage symptoms and improve overall quality of life. These approaches are important for MS patients as they can complement pharmacologic treatments by enhancing physical and mental well-being, potentially leading to better disease outcomes.

Efficacy of a behavioral intervention for reducing sedentary behavior in persons with multiple sclerosis: a pilot examination.