Avonex does not slow progression of disability

A board to discuss the Multiple Sclerosis modifying drug Avonex
Post Reply
User avatar
NHE
Volunteer Moderator
Posts: 6221
Joined: Sat Nov 20, 2004 3:00 pm
Contact:

Avonex does not slow progression of disability

Post by NHE »

Interferon β for secondary progressive multiple sclerosis: a systematic review.
J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2013 Apr;84(4):420-6.

BACKGROUND: It is unclear whether recombinant β interferons (IFNβ) can be effective in secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS). The aim was to determine whether IFNβ can reduce the risk of disability and cognitive impairment progression in SPMS.

METHODS: Using Cochrane methodology, we reviewed all randomised placebo controlled trials of IFNβ in SPMS patients (1995-March 2012).

RESULTS: 5 trials (3082 patients) were included. After 3 years, interferons did not reduce disability progression, confirmed at 6 months (RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.82 to 1.16). A small reduction in the number of patients who had relapses during the first 3 years of treatment (RR 0.91, 0.84 to 0.97) was found. No analysis of cognitive data was possible. More treated than placebo patients dropped out for adverse events.

CONCLUSION: 3 year treatment with IFNβ does not delay permanent disability in SPMS but reduces relapse risk, indicating that the anti-inflammatory effect of IFNβ is unable to prevent MS progression once it has become established.
Post Reply
  • Similar Topics
    Replies
    Views
    Last post

Return to “Avonex”