Professional paper

Benefit from Beta Interferon in the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis

Marija Bošnjak-Pašić
Marijana Lisak
Melita Uremović
Branka Vidrih
Vida Demarin

Abstract

Over the past twelve years, beta interferons 1a and 1b have been increasingly used as immunomodulatory agents in the treatment of multiple sclerosis as well as for prophylaxis of disease progression. In Croatia, the cost of beta interferons 1a and 1b has been covered by the Croatian Institute of Health Insurance since 1997. Despite numerous doubts about their real benefit, having in mind their price, side effects and occurrence of neutralizing antibodies, numerous clinical trials have confirmed their efficacy. The most efficient are interferon beta 1a (Rebif® in a dose of 12 MIU, subcutaneously, three times per week), interferon beta 1b (Betaferon® in a dose of 8 MIU, subcutaneously, every other day) and interferon beta-1a (Avonex® in a dose of 6 MIU weekly intramuscularly).

Keywords

Interferons - therapeutic use; Multiple sclerosis - drug therapy; Interferons - adverse effects; Treatment outcome; Clinical trials

Hrčak ID:

14048

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/14048

Publication date:

1.3.2006.

Article data in other languages: croatian

Visits: 3.027 *