Options to treat MS
Treatment options
There are now 6 disease-modifying medications approved for use in relapsing forms of MS by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). None of them is a cure for MS. None will prevent pre-existing recurring symptoms, such as fatigue or numbness, which typically come and go in an hour or a day. All of them have proven records of partial success.Rebif, Copaxone, Betaseron, and Avonex are self-injectable drugs for long-term use; they modulate the immune system. Novantrone is an immune system suppressor, delivered by IV infusion in a medical setting. There are many other drugs, treatments, and strategies for MS symptoms. They make important contributions to keeping people with MS well and active. A full discussion with a knowledgeable physician is the best guide for your decision. Each person with MS is an individual, and MS is famous for being different from person to person and even within the same person from time to time.
Brand and generic name
- Betaseron: interferon beta-1b
- Avonex: interferon beta-1a
- Copaxone: glatiramer acetate
- Novantrone: mitoxantrone
- Rebif: interferon beta-1a
- Tysabri: natalizumab
Indication (from the FDA Approved Labeling)
- Betaseron: for the treatment of relapsing forms of MS.
- Avonex: for the treatment of relapsing forms of MS, and for a single clinical episode if MRI features consistent with MS are also present.
- Copaxone: for the treatment of relapsing-remitting MS.
- Novantrone: for treatment of worsening relapsing-remitting MS and for progressive-relapsing or secondary-progressive MS.
- Rebif: for the treatment of relapsing forms of MS.
Frequency/Route of Delivery/ Usual Dose
- Betaseron: every other day; subcutaneous (under the skin) injection; 250 mcg.
- Avonex: once a week; intramuscular (into the muscle) injection; 30 mcg.
- Copaxone: every day; subcutaneous (under the skin) injection; 20 mg (20,000 mcg).
- Novantrone: four times a year by IV infusion read more
