Rebif® (interferon beta 1-a)

Parent companies: EMD Serono, Inc. and Pfizer Inc.

Administered through subcutaneous injections three times weekly.

Approved for relapsing types of MS.

May affect the immune system by decreasing damaging cells and increasing cells that suppress inflammation.

One-year data from an ongoing two-year study show that the new formulation of Rebif is better tolerated than the original formulation; compared to an earlier trial (EVIDENCE study), percentage of those positive for neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) at 48 weeks was reduced; also, injection-site reactions were reduced by nearly two-thirds.

Studied in combination with atorvastatin (Lipitor®); study found combination resulted in an increase in MRI and clinical disease activity; statins now believed to block the therapeutic effects of interferons, statins not recommended when taking an interferon.

Studies being conducted with Rebif's effect on CIS.

Data being analyzed for study comparing Rebif to Copaxone.