Summer 2007 Research Update

August 2007

Numerous trials are currently being conducted to determine the safety and effectiveness of medications for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). Trials include FDA-approved drugs, experimental drugs (such as oral medications, monoclonal antibodies, and other treatments), as well as various combinations of drugs and doses.

Study findings and announcements are frequently reported at international medical conferences. The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) and the Consortium of MS Centers (CMSC) are examples of such groups that hold annual meetings to update medical professionals on the latest information available on disease research and treatments. Both the AAN and CMSC meetings are held each year in the spring.

To follow are highlights of some of the recent findings in the field of MS research. This is not a complete list and additional study results may be added to this list at a later time. Please note that in many instances, initial study results should be considered as preliminary. Additional studies and/or evaluations are needed before these findings may be confirmed.

FDA-Approved Medications for the Treatment of MS

• Avonex® (interferon beta 1-a)
• Betaseron® (interferon beta 1-b)
• Rebif® (interferon beta 1-a)
• Copaxone® (glatiramer acetate)
• Novantrone® (mitoxantrone)
• Tysabri® (natalizumab)

Experimental Oral Medications for the Treatment of MS

• Oral Cladribine
• Fingolimod (FTY720)
• BG00012 (fumarate; fumaric acid esther)
• Laquinimod
• Teriflunomide
• Estriol
• Statins

Experimental Monoclonal Antibody Medications for the Treatment of MS

• Campath® (alentuzumab)
• Rituxan® (rituximab)
• Zenapax® (daclizumab)

Other Therapies Being Studied for the Treatment of MS

• MBP8298
• NeuroVax™
• Tovaxin™
• Fampridine SR® (long-acting fampridine, 4-aminopyridine)
  
  

For more information please refer to the cover story from MSAA’s Summer 2007 issue of The Motivator. Anyone wishing to receive a free copy of The Motivator may call MSAA’s Helpline at (800) 532-7667. Helpline consultants and information about MSAA’s programs are also available through this number.

By Susan Wells Courtney, MSAA Senior Writer and Creative Director
Reviewed by Dr. Jack Burks, MSAA Chief Medical Officer

Media inquires should be addressed to Amanda Bednar, MSAA Public Relations Manager, at (800) 532-7667, extension 122 or via email: abednar@msassociation.org