Interferon beta-1B for multiple sclerosis
Article Abstract:
Interferon beta-1B appears to be effective in reducing both the number and severity of multiple sclerosis (MS) attacks in patients with mild to moderate MS. Interferons play a part in regulating the immune system. The effects of two different doses of interferon beta-1B on MS were compared. Patients received 1.6 million international units (IU), eight million IU or a placebo (inactive substance) injected every other day. Of the 372 patients studied, 36 of the 115 who were treated with the high dose of interferon beta-1B had no worsening of symptoms after two years. The symptoms did not worsen in only 18 of the 112 patients who received the placebo. Patients who received the high dose of the drug also had fewer hospitalizations. Side effects of interferon beta-1B included flu-like symptoms and irritation at the site of the injection. The drug may soon be approved by the Food and Drug Administration for treating MS.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1993
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Glatiramer acetate for relapsing multiple sclerosis
Article Abstract:
Glatiramer acetate seems able to reduce the frequency of relapse in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS). It seems most effective in those patients with the least disability. It is not known if it has any ability to slow the progression of MS. The drug, formerly known as copolymer-I, has been approved by the FDA and is marketed by Teva Marion Partners under the trade name Copaxone. There is no available data comparing it to the other MS treatments interferon beta-1b or interferon beta-1a.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1997
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Interferon beta-1a for relapsing multiple sclerosis
Article Abstract:
Interferon beta-1a (Avonex) has been approved for the treatment of relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS), a degenerative disease of the central nervous system. MS patients taking the drug deteriorated less than a control group, although it remains unclear whether interferon beta-1a would be able to halt disease progression. Side effects are similar to flu symptoms. Comparisons between interferon beta-1a and interferon beta-1b, an earlier therapy, are needed.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1996
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