The efficacy of azathioprine in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.
We randomized 59 patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis to receive azathioprine (AZA) 3.0 mg/kg daily or placebo in a double-masked therapeutic trial. Analysis of data for predetermined primary outcome measures demonstrated a significant difference favoring AZA for observed mean exacerbation rate after 2 years of therapy and time to deterioration in both Ambulation Index and Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale score. This study confirms a modest therapeutic benefit for azathioprine previously reported by other investigators.
Goodkin
D E
DE
Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, OH 44195-5244.
Bailly
R C
RC
Teetzen
M L
ML
Hertsgaard
D
D
Beatty
W W
WW
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001379:Azathioprine / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000401:mortality / Q000503:physiopathology; D012008:Recurrence; D016019:Survival Analysis
D001379:Azathioprine