[Interferon beta1-a IM once weekly does not modify general psychological function in the first months after therapy in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis].
BACKGROUND
Psychological troubles are common in multiple sclerosis but their underlying etiology is still controversial.


METHODS
The objective of this open, non comparative, multicenter study was to assess changes in global psychological functioning in new multiple sclerosis patients during the first 3 months of treatment with intramuscular interferon beta-1a once weekly (Avonex). This functioning was rated every 4 weeks with the GAF (Global Assessment Functioning) scale. Depression measured on MADRS (Montgomery & Asberg Depression Rating Scale), clinical global impression (CGI) on patients'psychological status and clinical as well as biological tolerance were also assessed every 4 weeks.


RESULTS
Five hundred and ninety-nine patients (71.4 percent women), aged 39.4 years were included. No clinically significant difference in mean GAF score between baseline and the end of the first 3 months of interferon beta-1a IM treatment (main evaluation outcome) was found. Similar results were obtained on MADRS scale.


CONCLUSIONS
No clinically significant alteration of global psychological functioning, including symptoms of depression, was observed during the first 3 months of treatment with interferon beta-1a IM.
Baldauf
E
E
Service de Neurologie, Centre Hospitalier Louis Pasteur, Colmar.
Gross
M
M
Fleury
M-C
MC
Gentin
M
M
Souvignet
V
V
Warter
J-M
JM
D000276:Adjuvants, Immunologic / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000328:Adult; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007273:Injections, Intramuscular; D000068556:Interferon beta-1a; D016899:Interferon-beta / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008297:Male; D020529:Multiple Sclerosis, Relapsing-Remitting / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011581:Psychological Tests; D013997:Time Factors
D000276:Adjuvants, Immunologic; D016899:Interferon-beta; D000068556:Interferon beta-1a