Copaxone® (glatiramer acetate)

Parent company: Teva Neuroscience, Inc.

Given through daily subcutaneous injections
Approved for RRMS.

Has anti-inflammatory properties and may have a neuroprotective effect.

Study with primary-progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) was stopped due to lack of effectiveness; in a subsequent analysis, may be effective for men, but more studies needed.

A pilot study with double-dose Copaxone looks encouraging, with a reduction in relapses and lesions as seen on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Study being conducted with a double-dose of Copaxone (FORTE study).

An ongoing trial combines Copaxone with Avonex (COMBI Rx trial).

Another study looks at Copaxone combined with minocycline (an inexpensive, oral antibiotic); the combination reflected consistent pattern of benefit in reduction of new and active lesions; also reported to be safe and well tolerated.

Being tested in the treatment of CIS (PreCISe study).