(June 19, 2008 - Insidermedicine) An experimental new oral treatment for multiple sclerosis is showing promise in early trials, according to research published in The Lancet.

Here are some facts about MS and its treatment:

•    It results when a disruption in the body's immune system causes it to attack tissue in the central nervous system known as "white matter".

•    White matter is essential for proper communication to occur throughout the central nervous system.

•    There is no cure for MS, although treatments for some forms of the disease do exist. Currently, standard treatments for MS are given by injection.

Researchers from the Institute of Experimental Neurology at Vita-Salute University in Milan randomly assigned over 300 adults with relapsing-remitting MS to receive a high dose of the experimental drug laquinimod, a lower dose of this drug, or a placebo. Patients were followed-up for 36 weeks via brain imaging studies and clinical assessments.

Those taking the high dose of laquinimod had about 40% fewer of the brain lesions that are a hallmark of MS than those taking a placebo. Both doses of the drug were well tolerated.

While further study is needed, today's research provides hope that an effective oral treatment for the relapsing-remitting form of this condition is on the horizon.

For Insidermedicine in Depth, I'm Dr. Susan Sharma.