Glatiramer in the treatment of multiple sclerosis

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Authors: Syed A Rizvi, Edward Kim

Published Date February 2006 Volume 2006:1(3) Pages 283 - 289

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2147/IJN.S

Syed A Rizvi, Edward Kim

Jennifer Moodie Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Brown Medical School, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA

Abstract: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system with both an inflammatory and degenerative component. The disease primarily affects young adults and results in significant physical and cognitive disability. Several disease-modifying agents are currently used in the management of multiple sclerosis. Glatiramer acetate (GA, Copaxone^®, co-polymer 1) is a disease-modifying agent approved for the treatment of relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis. Apart from its unique mode of action, there is evidence pointing toward a possible neuroprotective role. This review will critically discuss GA’s potential mechanisms of action, the results of clinical trials, safety profile, and future directions of treatment.

Keywords: multiple sclerosis, disease-modifying agents, glatiramer acetate, clinical trials, MRI, neurodegeneration