A new randomised long-term trial of azathioprine,
interferon beta and glatiramer would probably cost less than the current scheme as only a third of people would get the most expensive drug.
In spite of the positive safety profile of both
interferon beta and glatiramer acetate, the need for frequent dosing and patients' difficulty in adhering to prescribed dosing schedules may limit the therapeutic efficacy of these drugs (Reynolds, Stephen, Seaman, & Rajagopalan, 2010; Wong, Gomes, Mamdani, Manno, & O'Connor, 2011).
Currently, there are 10 Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved treatments for MS, including four
interferon beta preparations, glatiramer acetate, natalizumab, fingolimod, mitoxantrone, teriflunomide, and dimethyl fumarate (DMF; Table 2).
AZD9412 is a novel inhaled
interferon beta therapy, which is being developed to support the immune system by correcting a deficiency that makes it vulnerable to respiratory tract viral infections.
The company expects to start pivotal testing in 2012 after the multiple ascending dose (MAD) trial demonstrated the potential for monthly treatment and suggested the increased tolerability of AZ01, a long-acting
interferon beta, compared to other treatment options.
Fingolimod 0.5 mg reduced the rate of brain atrophy, or brain volume loss, compared to
interferon beta 1a IM over 12 months, irrespective of disease activity prior to study start as shown in an analysis of the pivotal Phase III TRANSFORMS study.
Today, Betaseron and Avonex (forms of
interferon beta) are proven to "modify" MS.