Could steroids fix stubborn MS lesions? new trial investigates
NCT ID NCT02784210
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This phase 2 trial tests whether a 3-day course of high-dose corticosteroids (methylprednisolone or prednisone) can help heal ring-enhancing brain lesions in people with multiple sclerosis. Thirty adults with MS and a specific type of active lesion will be randomly assigned to receive either steroids or no treatment. Researchers will use MRI scans at 13 and 25 weeks to see if the lesions shrink or change. The goal is to find a better way to manage these hard-to-heal lesions, even when there are no obvious relapse symptoms.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
corticosteroids (methylprednisolone or prednisone)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could show that a short course of high-dose steroids helps heal certain MS brain lesions, potentially improving recovery without long-term medication.
What could go wrong
This is a small early-phase trial with only 30 people, so results may not apply to everyone. Corticosteroids have side effects like stomach irritation and mood changes, and the treatment may not improve lesion healing.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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National Institutes of Health Clinical Center
RECRUITINGBethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••