Rebif
Rebif (interferon beta-1a) is a copy of a type of interferon that your body produces. These interferons are proteins that can modify how your immune systems reacts to nerve cells.- Which Type of MS is it for? Relapsing-remitting.
- How Effective is it? It reduces the relapse rate by 30 percent.
- How is it Taken? Subcutaneous (under the skin) injection three times a week. Usually done at home.
- Storage: Can go 30 days without refrigeration. It is also light-sensitive.
- Precautions: Not recommended for use during pregnancy or breast-feeding.
- What are the Side Effects? Flu-like symptoms during the initial weeks. You doctor may schedule blood tests to assure that the medication has not affected liver function, blood counts or thyroid function.
- When was it approved? 2002
- More Information and Patient Support: MS LifeLines; Rebif phone: 1-877-44-REBIF
Novantrone
Novantrone (Mitoxantrone) is an antineoplastic, a type of medication first used in cancer treatment. Novantrone works in MS by suppressing immune system elements that may attack the myelin.- Which Type of MS is it for? Secondary-progressive, progressive-relapsing and some types of relapsing-remitting.
- How Effective is it? In a 2-year study, compared to a placebo, Novantrone has been shown to reduce the number of relapses, lengthen time between relapses, show a 61 percent reduction in the deterioration of study participants’ ability to walk and significantly less neurological disability.
- How is it Taken? IV infusion once every three months at the doctor’s office or other treatment site. Because of the potential for cardiac damage, patients can only take up to a maximum cumulative dose of 140 mg/m2 (approximately 8-12 doses) over 2-3 years.
- Precautions: Prior to treatment patients must be evaluated for cardiac problems. A person with a history of cardiac problems, certain medications, and previous use of chemotherapies may not be able to use Novantrone. Because Novantrone lowers your immune response, you should take precautions to avoid infection. Always check with your doctor before taking any immunizations. Novantrone should not be used while pregnant or breastfeeding.
- What are the Side Effects? Nausea, hair loss, menstrual disorders. If fever, chills, pain or other symptoms occur, you should tell your doctor.
- When was it approved?2000
- More Information and Patient Support: MS LifeLines; phone: 1-877-447-3243
Tysabri
Tysabri (Natalizumab) is a monoclonal antibody that makes it more difficult for the cells of the immune system to move into the brain and spinal cord.- Which Type of MS is it for? Relapsing-remitting MS that has not responded to other treatments.
- How Effective is it? It reduces MS relapse rate by 60 percent.
- How is it Taken? IV once every four weeks at the doctor’s office or other treatment site.
- Precautions: Tysabri increases the risk of a viral infection of the brain called progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) which leads to severe disability or death. Because of this, a complex monitoring system is set up for people taking Tysabri. People with a weakened immune system should not take Tysabri. Tysabri should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women. Precaution should be taken to avoid infection.
- What are the Side Effects? headache, pain, fatigue, depression, diarrhea. Allergic reactions may occur.
- When was it approved? 2006
- More Information and Patient Support: Biogen, Idec, Inc.; phone: 1-800-456-2255
Sources:
Multiple Sclerosis: Hope Through Research ; National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
