Authors' objectives:

This review aims to assess the available evidence on the effectiveness of interferon beta-1a, interferon beta-1b, glatiramer acetate, and mitoxantrone for the treatment of multiple sclerosis.

Authors' recommendations: With regard to treatments for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) or secondary-progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS), the ICSI Technology Assessment Committee finds the following: IFNB-1a, IFNB-1b, and glatiramer acetate, in blinded studies, have all been found to be safe and effective in reducing the frequency and severity of relapses for patients with definite RRMS. For IFNB-1a and IFNB-1b, there is evidence of a dose-response and objective (MRI) findings that support the clinical findings. To date, limited evidence is available directly comparing the three treatments and only short-term (up to 6 years) follow-up data are available. Patients with definite RRMS should be considered for treatment with IFNB-1a, IFNB-1b, or glatiramer acetate; the decision to treat and the choice of treatment depend on the individual patient taking into account life style and possible side effects. (Conclusion Grade I) In one Phase III study, MTX was found to be safe and effective in delaying progression of disease in patients with SPMS. However, patients receiving MTX should be monitored for cardiac, liver and kidney function during treatment. (Conclusion Grade II)

Authors' methods: Review

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.icsi.org/index.asp

Year Published: 2001

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: United States

Organisation Name: Institute for Clinical Systems Improvement

Contact Address: 8009 34th Avenue South, Suite 1200, Bloomington, MN, USA. Tel: +1 952 814 7060; Fax: +1 952 858 9675

Contact Name: icsi.info@icsi.org

Contact Email: icsi.info@icsi.org

Copyright: Institute for Clinical Systems Improvement (ICSI)