[Beta interferon in multiple sclerosis: pharmacological differences]

Interferons beta (INF) would be a good recombinant therapeutic choice for the management of relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Three forms are approved in various countries including one IFN beta-1b (Betaféron) and two IFN beta-1a (Avonex and Ribif). These agents are apparently similar although they are not identical. Differences may be of clinical relevance. Important differences are described here in terms of pharmacokinetics, the spectrum of side effects and molecular chemistry. The clinical consequences on the benefit/risk ratio are discussed. This review recalls the difficulty in developing such compounds and in reaching marketing approval. An improvement in the acceptability and efficiency of IFN beta could by obtained when analyzing basic research data.