The ASCEND Study

What is the purpose of ASCEND?

The purpose of the ASCEND Study is to investigate whether the investigational medication can slow the progression of disability unrelated to relapse in patients with secondary progressive MS.

How long is the study and what treatment will I receive?

If you are eligible and choose to participate in the study, you will be randomly (by chance) assigned to receive either:

  • The investigational medication
  • A placebo (an inactive substance)

You will have a 50% chance of being assigned the investigational medication; neither you, your doctor, nor the study team will know (or be allowed to choose) whether you’re assigned the investigational medication or the placebo.

You will visit the study clinic every 4 weeks to receive your infusion. During the study, we will also conduct several tests and assessments to monitor your health, including blood/urine tests, MRI scans and questions about your health.

What is a placebo and why will some patients receive it?

A placebo is an inactive substance that helps us to ensure that any effects seen during the study are due solely to the investigational medication and nothing else. There is nothing to compare with the study drug, which is why a placebo is being used. All patients will receive the same high standard of care and monitoring throughout.

How will I receive my assigned treatment?

Treatment will be given to patients every 4 weeks as an intravenous infusion (a drip) for approximately 2 years. The infusion will take approximately 1 hour to complete.

What happens next?

To find out whether you are eligible to take part in the ASCEND Study, please take our short eligibility test. If you appear to be eligible, you’ll be invited to book an appointment with the ASCEND Study team to find out more about the study and to ensure that you fully meet the study’s eligibility criteria.

If both you and your doctor think that you might be eligible to participate in the ASCEND Study, you will be asked to read a Patient Information Sheet and sign an Informed Consent Form to show that you:

  • Understand what the study involves
  • Agree to take part

For more detailed information, please download one of our brochures or FAQ sheets.