Impact of exposure to interferon beta-1a on outcomes in patients with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis: exploratory analyses from the PRISMS long-term follow-up study
Therapeutic Advances in Neurological Disorders, 01/14/2011
Exclusive author commentary
Uitdehaag B et al. – The findings of these post hoc analyses suggest that high exposure to sc interferon beta–1a may be associated with better clinical outcomes than low exposure, and also highlight the importance of maximizing adherence. Additional prospective investigation is warranted to evaluate further the effects of treatment exposure on outcomes and to determine the benefits of interventions to improve adherence.
Victor Rivera. (01/13/2011) comments:
This multi authored international ad hoc analyses addresses long-term follow-up, 7-8 years, after enrolment in the PRISMS (Prevention of Relapses and disability by Interferon beta-1a Subcutaneously in Multiple Sclerosis) study.
Patients exposed to 44 mcg high dose and that received continuous therapy had better clinical outcomes (annual relapse rate, progression of disability and conversion to secondary progressive disease) as well as reduction of MRI T2 lesions burden, than the group exposed to 22 mcg low dose or con-continuous therapy. The results of the study emphasize the importance to establish measures to improve adherence considering that MS requires of chronic, long-lasting and continuous therapies.
