title: Systemic alpha-interferon therapy of multiple sclerosis.
abstract: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study tested the efficacy of natural alpha interferon in altering exacerbating-remitting MS. Twenty-four patients with frequent exacerbations were treated for 6-month periods, beginning with either 5 X 10(6) IU of interferon daily or placebo. A 6-month washout period followed each treatment. Exacerbation rates were reduced during interferon and placebo phases compared with pre-study rates; a greater reduction occurred on interferon, particularly following placebo, possibly reflecting a learning phenomenon. Fifteen patients with a strictly exacerbating-remitting course had fewer and milder exacerbations on interferon compared with those on placebo, whereas 9 patients with a progressive component continued to have active disease. These results suggest that interferon might reduce exacerbations in certain patients and indicate guidelines for future trials of interferon in MS.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007370:Interferon Type I / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008297:Male; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D011897:Random Allocation
chemical_list: D007370:Interferon Type I