This invention provides a method for treating a human subject afflicted with a progressive form of multiple sclerosis, comprising periodically administering to the human subject an amount of laquinimod effective to treat the human subject. This invention also provides laquinimod for use in treating a human subject afflicted with a progressive form of multiple sclerosis. This invention further provides pharmaceutical compositions and packages comprising an effective amount of laquinimod for treating a progressive form of multiple sclerosis.