Al Salam Specialist Hospital Introduces Subcutaneous MS Treatment in Bahrain

Al Salam Specialized Hospital in Bahrain has introduced subcutaneous treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS), marking a significant advancement in patient care for the chronic neurological condition in the Gulf region. The initiative, led by Dr. Hani Humeidan, Head of the Neurology Department, aims to improve treatment accessibility and quality of life for individuals living with MS by shifting from intravenous infusions to self-administered injections.

The new subcutaneous formulation of disease-modifying therapy allows patients to administer medication at home using a pre-filled syringe or auto-injector, reducing the need for frequent hospital visits. According to hospital officials, this approach not only enhances convenience but also supports better adherence to long-term treatment regimens, which is critical in managing MS progression.

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the protective myelin sheath surrounding nerve fibers in the central nervous system, leading to disrupted communication between the brain and body. Symptoms vary widely and may include fatigue, mobility issues, vision problems, numbness, and cognitive changes. While there is no cure, disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) are designed to reduce relapse rates, slow disability accumulation, and manage disease activity.

Dr. Humeidan emphasized that the shift to subcutaneous delivery reflects a broader trend in neurology toward patient-centered care. “This development redefines the patient experience by empowering individuals to take greater control over their treatment while maintaining clinical efficacy,” he said in a statement provided by the hospital. The hospital reported that initial patient feedback has been positive, particularly among those with demanding work or family schedules who previously struggled with infusion appointments.

Subcutaneous administration of MS therapies is not new globally; several DMTs such as interferon beta-1a, glatiramer acetate, and certain monoclonal antibodies like ofatumumab have been approved for subcutaneous use by regulatory agencies including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA). These formulations have demonstrated comparable effectiveness to intravenous versions in clinical trials, with safety profiles generally aligned with established risks such as injection-site reactions, which are typically mild and transient.

Al Salam Specialized Hospital did not specify which exact medication is being used in its subcutaneous program. However, the hospital confirmed that the treatment is administered under strict medical supervision, with patients receiving initial training from healthcare professionals before transitioning to home use. Follow-up monitoring includes regular neurological assessments and MRI scans to evaluate treatment response.

The introduction of this service aligns with Bahrain’s national health strategy to expand access to advanced therapies and reduce the burden of chronic diseases. According to the Ministry of Health, neurological disorders contribute significantly to long-term disability in the country, and efforts are underway to strengthen specialized care infrastructure across public and private healthcare providers.

Neurology experts note that while subcutaneous treatments offer practical advantages, they are not suitable for all patients. Factors such as manual dexterity, comfort with self-injection, and individual risk profiles must be considered when selecting the appropriate delivery method. Healthcare providers continue to recommend shared decision-making between patients and clinicians to determine the most appropriate therapy based on disease subtype, activity level, and lifestyle.

As of now, Al Salam Specialized Hospital reports that dozens of patients have enrolled in the subcutaneous MS treatment program since its launch. The hospital plans to expand education initiatives and support services to assist more individuals in adopting the new administration method, with ongoing evaluation of outcomes to inform future neurology care models in Bahrain.