Multiple Sclerosis

We aim to improve the lives of those living with MS, having spent over 20 years researching and developing solutions for advancing MS care.

More than 2.8 million people are affected by Multiple Sclerosis (MS) worldwide[1] with most people diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40.[4] It is three times more common in women than men [2] and is the most common, non-traumatic, disabling neurological disease in young adults.[4] Relapsing remitting MS (RRMS) is the most common form of MS – around 85 percent of people with MS are initially diagnosed with this type.[3]

MS is an autoimmune, chronic and inflammatory condition that affects the central nervous system (CNS). It can be very difficult to diagnose as there is no single test and symptoms differ considerably from one person to the other.[5]

There is currently no cure for MS. In fact, no one knows exactly what causes it. It’s believed to be an autoimmune disease where the immune system begins to attack the protective coating on the axons of nerve cells (neurons) called myelin.[4] While scientists are striving to discover what triggers these attacks, most agree that genetics, environmental and lifestyle factors all may play a part.[6]

But over the years, some discoveries have helped make the condition more manageable. However, there is still a high need for further development and progress.

The company supports The European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA) campaign #WeWontRest, showcasing pledges industry experts have made to help make the world a healthier place. At Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, #WeWontRest until we truly understand MS from the inside out and through that knowlegde can identify solutions to improve the quality of life for everyone affected by MS.

MS affects, often dramatically, the lives of many patients and families. We have been committed to research in the area of MS for more than 20 years. We aim to find new approaches that critically modify the course of the disease. We are researching potential therapies with the goal to make meaningful improvements to patients' lives.