THE MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA (INC.)

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Ongoing trial data has shown that the earlier the treatments are started the more beneficial the effect.

We now have a number of treatments, for use with Relapsing remitting MS (RRMS) that modify the course of MS by reducing the frequency and severity of relapses. This ultimately slows the progression of the disease.

Interferon beta

Interferons are proteins that occur naturally in the body and help fight viral infections and regulate the immune system.

Interferon beta has been shown to reduce the risk of relapses in MS and slow the resulting progression of disability.

There are 3 interferon beta treatments available in Australia; covered by the Government subsidised PBS:

Glatiramer acetate

Copaxone, available on the PBS, is given daily by injection into the skin and although the exact mechanism of action is not known it is thought to lessen the immune reaction that attacks myelin and reduces relapse rates by approximately a third. MS Trust - Copaxone

Natalizumab

Tysabri is a monoclonal antibody, covered on the PBS, and given by intravenous infusion every 4 weeks. It is thought to work by binding to the white blood cells and preventing them from moving across the blood brain barrier into the brain and spinal cord; which then reduces the inflammation caused by MS thus reducing nerve damage.

Studies have shown natalizumab reduces the occurrence of relapse by around two thirds and significantly reduces the rate of disease progression.

As there have been a number of cases worldwide of a rare but potentially fatal, viral brain infection, known as PM,L there are treatment protocols and patient surveillance programs in place to reduce the risk.

Find out more at MS Trust - Tysabri.