Interferon-beta treatment for relapsing multiple sclerosis

Background: Recombinant forms of IFN-beta were the first therapeutic intervention found to be effective at interfering with the course of multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic and debilitating disease affecting the CNS in young adults. Objective/methods: To examine the application of IFN-beta to MS treatment by a review of relevant literature. Results: The different IFN-beta products available are similar in their clinical effects. However, the response to IFN-beta therapy is only partial and the most efficient individual-specific dose, route and frequency of administration are not elucidated fully. The mechanism of action of IFN-beta in MS is also not understood fully but its immunomodulatory effects are probably more important than its anti-proliferative and antiviral activities. Conclusions: Although new therapeutic approaches are being sought to better treat MS, IFN-beta remains one of the most recognized and approved worldwide therapeutic options for this disease.