Interferon-β1a: a once-weekly immunomodulatory treatment for patients with multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic demyelinating disease of the CNS. The most common form of MS at onset, relapsing–remitting disease, is defined not by pathological features but by unpredictable periods of acute or subacute neurological worsening, followed by gradual improvement over weeks to months, often with residual neurological deficits. Evidence from serial magnetic resonance imaging studies in relapsing–remitting disease reveals significant inflammation, demyelination and axonal loss occurring both during and between relapses. Disease-modifying agents, such as interferon (IFN)-β1a, reduce the frequency of relapse by 30% in well established relapsing patients, reduce the risk of a second attack by 50% in high-risk patients, following a first attack, and reduce the number and volume of magnetic resonance imaging lesions. Intramuscular IFN-β1a is effective in delaying disability progression and brain atrophy. The relationship between response to therapy and pathological subtype of MS is unknown. This review summarizes key findings of Phase III clinical trials, extension studies and postmarketing trials, demonstrating the efficacy and safety of intramuscular IFN-β1a. Results demonstrating the negative impact of anti-IFN-β neutralizing antibodies on clinical efficacy are also addressed. Finally, expert commentary regarding the treatment of MS with IFN-β therapy and future strategies to augment intramuscular IFN-β1a efficacy by combination treatment with other agents is presented.