Interferon-beta treatment for relapsing multiple sclerosis.
BACKGROUND
Recombinant forms of IFN-beta were the first therapeutic intervention found to be effective at interfering with the course of multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic and debilitating disease affecting the CNS in young adults.


OBJECTIVE
To examine the application of IFN-beta to MS treatment by a review of relevant literature.


RESULTS
The different IFN-beta products available are similar in their clinical effects. However, the response to IFN-beta therapy is only partial and the most efficient individual-specific dose, route and frequency of administration are not elucidated fully. The mechanism of action of IFN-beta in MS is also not understood fully but its immunomodulatory effects are probably more important than its anti-proliferative and antiviral activities.


CONCLUSIONS
Although new therapeutic approaches are being sought to better treat MS, IFN-beta remains one of the most recognized and approved worldwide therapeutic options for this disease.
Weinstock-Guttman
Bianca
B
The Jacobs Neurological Institute, Department of Neurology, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA. bguttman@thejni.org
Ramanathan
Murali
M
Zivadinov
Robert
R
D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D006801:Humans; D016899:Interferon-beta / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D020529:Multiple Sclerosis, Relapsing-Remitting / Q000188:drug therapy*; D011358:Product Surveillance, Postmarketing; D011994:Recombinant Proteins / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012008:Recurrence
D011994:Recombinant Proteins; D016899:Interferon-beta