Disease-Modifying Immunotherapy
This first section for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) refers to disease-modifying immunotherapy, which uses one of six drug therapies approved by the FDA (United States Food & Drug Administration) to slow MS activity and progression. The most commonly prescribed medications are the "ABRC" drugs (Avonex®, Betaseron®, Rebif®, and Copaxone®). These are given via self-injection at home, varying from once daily to once weekly, depending on the drug selected. The other drugs, which include Novantrone® and Tysabri®, are given periodically via intravenous injection (IV) by a medical professional.
The majority of individuals with MS may benefit from taking one of these immunotherapy drugs. Research has shown that early treatment is the most effective strategy in minimizing damage to the nerves. Newly diagnosed individuals, as well as individuals diagnosed previously who are not on an immunotherapy, should speak with their physician to see if they may benefit from this type of treatment.
FDA-Approved Disease Modifying Therapies for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Patient-Support Contact Information
AVONEX® (interferon beta-1a)
Patient support and information at Avonex Alliance,
(800) 456-2255 or www.avonex.com
BETASERON® (interferon beta-1b)
Patient support and information at BETAPLUS at www.betaseron.com/patients/betaplus/index.jsp,
(800) 788-1467or
www.multiplesclerosis.com
REBIF® (interferon beta-1a)
Patient support and information at MS LifeLines,
(877) 447-3243 or www.MSLifeLines.com
COPAXONE® (glatiramer acetate)
Patient support and information at Shared Solutions,
(800) 887-8100 or www.sharedsolutions.com
NOVANTRONE® (mitoxantrone)
Patient support and information at MS LifeLines,
(877) 447-3243 or www.novantrone.com
TYSABRI® (natalizumab)
Patient support and information at (800) 456-2255 or www.tysabri.com
Experimental Disease Modifying Therapies* for Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
(*These drugs or procedures are not FDA-approved specifically for the treatment of MS, but are sometimes used when other treatments are not effective.)
- Corticosteroids
- Cytoxan® (cyclophosphamide)
- Immunoglobulin
- Imuran® (azathioprine)
- Methotrexate
- Plasma Exchange
- Pulse Solu-Medrol® (IV methylprednisolone)
Please note that MSAA does not endorse or recommend any specific drug or treatment. Individuals are advised to consult with a physician about the potential benefits and risks of the different treatment therapies.
For more information about approved and experimental treatments for MS, please refer to the cover story in MSAA’s Summer 2008 Issue of The Motivator, titled “MS Research Update.”
