Interferons have been used for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) since 1993. The existing line-up of interferons for MS (Avonex, Betaseron, Extavia and Rebif) will soon be joined by Plegridy, approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in August 2014. Plegridy will become commercially available in November 2014.
Plegridy is a pegylated form of interferon beta. Pegylation is a process, used by several other non-MS medications, whereby a long string of polyethylene glycol molecules is attached to the interferon beta molecule, to extend its half-life by reducing clearance via kidneys or other elimination pathways in the body. This modification allows less frequent dosing of Plegridy – once every two weeks – although it is still administered as an injection under the skin.
In the ADVANCE trial, Plegridy was compared to placebo and demonstrated efficacy in reducing the relapses, MRI activity and disability progression. Both biweekly and monthly dosing were tested, but only the biweekly dosing was found to be effective. Plegridy exhibited similar tolerability and safety profile to that of other interferons, with about 60% patients reporting injection site redness, while 47% reported flu-like symptoms at any time (but only 5% of the patients in the study discontinued the treatment due to side effects). Because no head-to-head trials were done with Plegridy, it remains to be seen how Plegridy compares with the existing MS treatments in terms of efficacy. This information would be of particular significance to those MS patients currently on interferons who are looking for a more convenient form of therapy. The other unknown at this time is the cost of this medication.
Most Recent Articles
Wearable and personal heart monitors are increasingly popular
Can these devices really help patients? A Swedish expert weighs in.
A Swedish mental health expert shares an exercise that can give you a short, stress-lowering break.
Swedish is a leader in innovative solutions for spinal pain
Swedish is one of only a few U.S. centers involved in trials designed to prove the safety of a new artificial disc for degenerative disc disease patients.
Los casos de sarampión van en aumento. Esto es lo que debe saber.
Los casos en Estados Unidos este año ya han superado el total de 2023. Un experto de Swedish ofrece orientación para protegerse y proteger a sus seres queridos.
“I feel like I can enjoy my life again.”
At 285 pounds, Lindsey Washington had poor health and low self-esteem. Bariatric surgery at Swedish Health helped her take control and lose weight.
Get the scoop on your poop and what it says about your health
A Swedish gastroenterologist offers guidance on ways to improve your digestive health and overall wellbeing.
It's not all in your head. A Swedish expert on the causes, symptoms and treatment of endometriosis
Many people suffer with this painful condition for years before it's treated.
The Elizabeth Gregory Home and Swedish Cancer Institute’s partnership helps women build new lives
Watch video. A unique job training program offers women experiencing homelessness, economic insecurity or domestic violence a path to a career and success. Learn more.
Measles cases are on the rise. Here's what you should know.
U.S. cases this year have already surpassed 2023 totals. A Swedish expert has guidance for protecting yourself and your loved ones.
Going vegan without going crazy
Going vegan? A registered dietitian at Swedish answers common questions and explains the benefits and risks of removing animal products from your diet.
Understanding deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a dangerous condition that occurs when a blood clot forms in the thigh, lower leg or pelvis. A heart expert at Swedish outlines symptoms and care options.
At Swedish Ballard, care and support for adults with acute psychiatric needs
Watch video: our Partial Hospitalization Program offers patients an empowering, multidisciplinary day-treatment program to help them reach their treatment goals.
Learn what you need to know about prostate cancer — and about new tools for diagnosing and treating the disease.
The breakdown about osteoporosis and bone density testing
Don’t let a broken bone fracture your life. An expert at Swedish explains why bone density testing is vital to bone health and preventing osteoporosis.
Preparing your child for surgery
Learn how to work with a child life specialist to help your child feel as confident as possible about having surgery.
Comprehensive care for people with complex pregnancies
Patients with medically complex pregnancy require specialized, holistic care. Swedish’s maternal and fetal medicine experts are there for them. Learn more.
El dolor crónico puede afectar mucho a los pacientes y a las personas que los quieren
Los expertos en salud conductual de Providence Swedish ofrecen algunos consejos para que los pacientes, sus seres queridos y los cuidadores transiten sus relaciones de manera positiva.
Magnesium magic: myth or reality?
Online influencers say the mineral cures everything from gut issues to ADHD. A Swedish expert weighs in on the claims from Tik Tok docs.
Swedish’s medical weight loss program offers more options for a healthier future
A multidisciplinary team helps patients decide which approach is right for them.
Preventing cervical cancer
A gynecological oncologist at Swedish outlines the benefits of early vaccination and regular screenings to prevent cervical cancer.