Novantrone® (mitoxantrone)

Parent company: EMD Serono, Inc.

Given via intravenous injection once every three months for a maximum of two-to-three years.

The doses are limited to avoid the risk of cardiotoxicity (heart damage); risk of developing leukemia is also increased with long-term use, and women may have menstrual irregularities. Novantrone is an immunosuppressant and destroys all rapidly dividing cells, including those in the immune system.

Also used to treat cancer.

Has been approved for individuals with secondary-progressive MS (SPMS), progressive-relapsing MS (PRMS), and worsening RRMS; not indicated for PPMS.

Used by some physicians to treat patients whose disease is rapidly worsening, or who are not responding favorably to the first line of treatment (Avonex, Betaseron, Copaxone, or Rebif).

Previous studies have shown a significant reduction in active lesions and a reduction in disease progression.