Overview of European pilot study of interferon b-1b in primary progressive multiple sclerosis

Abstract

This short monograph describes a trial of interferon b-1b in patients with primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) or transitional MS. Designed as a randomized, placebo -controlled pilot, the trial randomly placed 73 eligible patients into two groups, placebo or interferon b-1b 8 MIU given subcutaneo usly every other day for two years. Significant differences favouring interferon b-1b in the MSFC score, T2 lesion volume and T1 lesion volume at 24 months were observed. Further study of interferon b-1b therapy in PPMS patients is warranted.