|
|
How does Copaxone differ from Avonex and Betaseron. |
Copaxone differs in several important ways from Avonex and Betaseron. Both Avonex and Betaseron are beta interferons which are signalling chemicals released in their natural form by certain types of immune cells. Copaxone is a synthetic agent made up of a specific mixture of four different amino acids.
The beta interferons are believed to work by hindering access of immune cells from the blood to the central nervous system and by regulating the immune response toward a less active state. Copaxone is believed to work by blocking the attachment of active inflammatory cells called lymphocytes to other cells, called antigen presenting cells, containing pieces of myelin which serve as targets or antigen. Copaxone is thought to compete with these pieces of myelin for the attachment site on the antigen presenting cell and thus block the release of inflammatory chemicals which follows binding with an activated lymphocyte.
In addition to differing theories on how these agents work, the side effect profiles of these drugs differ. Copaxone does not cause flu-like symptoms or require periodic blood tests for monitoring. It does cause skin reactions in some people, and occasionally acute reactions following an injection which are brief and subside spontaneously.
In terms of effectiveness, the data on all three agents shows benefit in reducing attacks or relapses. The data is much more complex in terms of effects on disease progression because of nuances in the various studies which were all measured in comparison to a group receiving placebos (inactive agents). There is no available systmatic controlled trial at this time which compares these three drugs against each other. It is best if you discuss the efficacy issues with your neurologist with respect to your own situation.
|
- Dr.Bruce Cohen
Northwestern University
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Send This To A Friend |
|
|
