Application of Interferon Beta-1b in Multiple Sclerosis

Recombinant interferon beta-1b (IFNβ-1b) was the first approved disease-modifying therapy for patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) by the world regulatory agencies for medical drugs and devices. IFNβ-1b significantly decreases the inflammatory component of MS but still has doubtable effect on the neurodegenerative component. This article appraises the beneficial effects of IFNβ-1b on clinical and imaging measures of disease. Upon only briefly discussing the side effects of the drug, it will conclude with some crucial scientific aspects warranting urgent investigations to precisely address the potentials of IFNβ-1b in MS patients.