Neutralizing antibodies to multiple sclerosis treatments

This article reviews the incidence and clinical significance of neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) undergoing treatment with interferon beta (IFNbeta). Implications for practice are also discussed in light of the currently available data on the clinical consequences of NAbs in patients with MS.

As with other recombinant protein drugs used for the treatment of a number of diseases, antibodies commonly develop to IFNbeta products during the treatment of patients with MS. Neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) are a subset of antibodies that reduce or diminish the biologic activity of IFNbeta. Three formulations of IFNbeta are currently available for the treatment of relapsing-remitting MS: IFNbeta-1b (Betaseron), intramuscular (i.m.) IFNbeta-1a (Avonex), and subcutaneous (s.c.) IFNbeta-1a (Rebif). Individual phase III clinical trials and direct comparison studies have shown that NAbs develop more frequently during treatment with IFNbeta-1b than IFNbeta-1a and that between the 2 IFNbeta-1a products, NAbs develop more frequently during treatment with s.c. IFNbeta-1a than IM IFNbeta-1a. Data from clinical trials of IFNbeta products indicate that clinical efficacy of IFNbeta is reduced in NAb-positive patients.

In light of these data, the immunogenicity of IFNbeta products should be considered prior to initiating treatment with IFNbeta. Also, ongoing laboratory monitoring of patients treated with higher-dose IFNbeta is recommended for early detection of NAbs.