Estriol

Drug already available in marketplace.

Oral pill given daily.

Studied in patients with RRMS.

Estrogen-like hormone that may have both neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties.

Studies are based on the fact that individuals with autoimmune disease often experience reduced disease activity during pregnancy; estrogen is thought to suppress the immune system during pregnancy so the fetus is not identified as a foreign body, thereby avoiding an attack from the immune system.

Small pilot study wih 10 non-pregnant women showed an 80-percent reduction in enhancing lesions; also showed cognitive improvements.

Seven universities in the United States are conducting a larger trial, enrolling 150 participants to receive daily Copaxone injections along with a daily estriol pill or a placebo.