Interferon β for Multiple Sclerosis
- Dejan Jakimovski1,
- Channa Kolb2,
- Murali Ramanathan2,3,
- Robert Zivadinov1,4 and
- Bianca Weinstock-Guttman2
- 1Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center, Department of Neurology, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, New York 14203
- 2Jacobs MS Center, Department of Neurology, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, New York 14202
- 3Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York, Buffalo, New York 14214
- 4MR Imaging Clinical Translational Research Center, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, New York 14203
- Correspondence: bweinstock-guttman{at}kaleidahealth.org
Abstract
Despite that the availability of new therapeutic options has expanded the multiple sclerosis (MS) disease-modifying therapy arsenal, interferon β (IFN-β) remains an important therapy option in the current decision-making process. This review will summarize the present knowledge of IFN-β mechanism of action, the overall safety, and the short- and long-term efficacy of its use in relapsing remitting MS and clinically isolated syndromes. Data on secondary progressive MS is also provided, although no clear benefit was identified.
