Background information Currently three interferon (IFN) beta preparations are registered for the treatment of certain stages of multiple sclerosis (MS). Two preparations (Rebif and Avonex) are produced from mammalian cells (CHO) and one preparation (Betaferon) from bacteria (E. coli). The two CHO-derived beta interferons are glycosylated products. The E. coli derived product, which is not glyco...

BACKGROUND The ability to self-inject in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) has been associated with a reduced risk of missed injections and drug discontinuation, and a beneficial effect on patients' independence. However, injection anxiety, needle phobia and disease-related disability are major barriers to a patient's ability to self-administer treatment. Use of an autoinjector may improve ...

The efficacy and safety of first-line disease-modifying therapies (DMT) for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) has been demonstrated in pivotal, randomized trials, but these studies do not reflect the routine care setting where treatment gaps or switches are common. The Avonex as Treatment Option for Untreated MS Patients (AXIOM) trial assessed the efficacy of newly-initiated intramu...

OBJECTIVE This article reviews the incidence and clinical significance of neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) undergoing treatment with interferon beta (IFNbeta). Implications for practice are also discussed in light of the currently available data on the clinical consequences of NAbs in patients with MS. SUMMARY As with other recombinant protein drugs used...

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. It affects approximately 400,000 people in the United States and onset is usually during young adulthood. There are four clinical forms of MS, of which relapsing remitting type is the most common. As the etiology of MS is unknown, finding a cure will remain challenging. The main mec...