A. Kasmia, M.Sc., M.D.
Baldwin Neurology, LLC, 188 Hospital drive Suite 300, Fairhope, Al 36532.
Phone (251)-990-1910, Fax (251)-990-1911
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A. Kasmia, M.Sc., M.D. Baldwin Neurology, LLC, 188 Hospital drive Suite 300, Fairhope, Al 36532. Phone (251)-990-1910, Fax (251)-990-1911
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Neurology news
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MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS
Monoclonal antibody suspended until further notice: On June 5, 2006 The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved an application to resume marketing of Tysabri (natalizumab) with a special restricted distribution program. Tysabri is a monoclonal antibody, for the treatment of patients with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). Tysabri is indicated for use as monotherapy, because it is not known what effect it has on other immune modifying drugs. It is approved for the use in patients who do not tolerate or have not responded to other treatments for MS. This drug was approved in late November of 2004 for patients with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). This drug was studies by itself (monotherapy) and showed 66% fewer relapses, and then studied in combination with Avonex (an interferon) showing 54% fewer clinical relapses than Avonex alone+ with placebo. The MRI scans also showed fewer lesions. This agent seems to be very promising and perhaps even more effective than most available agents. Link
Interferons beta-1b found effective in certain aspects of the secondary progressive MS: Two large multicenter studies differed in their findings using Interferon-beta_1b in secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS). The European study (Lancet 1998) found in 1998 fund about 21% benefit in disability progression. The latest North American study (Neurology November 2004) found no difference in a measure of disability called the Kurtzke Expanded Disability Scale (EDSS) but found benefit improvement on relapses, newly active MRI lesions. Analysis of the two studied concluded that Interferons are effective against the inflammatory phase of the disease ( relapses and MRI new lesions) but may less helpful in reducing the ongoing disability due to old injury. This analysis seems to support the notions of treating early and continuing therapy despite progression to lessen the overall impact of disease.
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