MS Drugs A Waste Of Money

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MS Drugs " A Waste Of Money "

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.

The Lancet - February 15, 2003;361(9357) 545-552.

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