Scientists
are questioning the effectiveness of
multiple sclerosis (MS) drugs beta
interferon and glatiramer acetateon.
Interferons have been used widely for the
treatment of MS, a neurological disease, for
almost a decade, and are available for this
use free of charge from many national health
services. However, their long-term
effectiveness has not been confirmed and any
beneficial effects might be outweighed by
their side effects and high costs.
In an analysis of trials conducted so far on
the use of interferon in patients with the
relapsing-remitting form of MS, interferon
had a “modest” protective effect during the
first year of treatment. However, results
could not be determined for the second year
due to trial weaknesses, including high
dropout rates and little to no follow-up of
patients, and differences in reporting of
methods.
Side effects were greater among patients
taking interferon than those taking a
placebo. Flu-like symptoms were common and
the occurrence of leucopenia,
lymphocytopenia, thrombocytopenia, and
raised liver enzymes in blood was higher
than controls.
Scientists conclude that while interferon
may have a modest effect during the first
year of treatment, its effectiveness beyond
one year is not known. Despite this,
patients are commonly treated with
interferon for long time periods. Scientists
say that the drug’s effectiveness should be
assessed.
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