Benefits of glatiramer acetate in the treatment of relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis is a chronic, progressive disorder marked by repeated exacerbations that lead to increases in neurological disability. Glatiramer acetate and the IFN-βs are recommended as first-line agents for relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis owing to their potential to reduce frequency and severity of relapses, decrease development of new brain lesions and delay permanent disability. After three decades of study, the preponderance of the evidence suggests that the efficacy of glatiramer acetate is similar to the IFN-βs and new data collected in more naturalistic settings suggest that it may provide improved quality of life, increased productivity and cost–effectiveness. This article will review this evidence including data from very recent head-to-head clinical trials and pharmacoeconomic analyses of cost–effectiveness.

Keywords::

• IFN-βs
• cost–effectiveness
• glatiramer acetate
• multiple sclerosis
• natalizumab
• pharmacoeconomics
• productivity
• quality of life
• relapse rate

Financial & competing interests disclosure

Kenneth P Johnson is a consultant for Biogen Idec Inc. and Teva Neuroscience, Inc., and is a member of a Speakers’ Bureau for EMD Serono, Inc. and Teva Neuroscience, Inc. Deborah L Due has consulted for EMD Serono, Inc and is a consultant for Teva Neuroscience, Inc. She is also a minor stockholder in Proctor and Gamble, and Teva Pharmaceuticals. The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.