[The use of rebif in the Moscow Municipal Multiple Sclerosis Center]

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Immunology
• Pharmacology

Context:

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system.
• Beta-interferons are a class of disease-modifying therapies used in MS treatment.
• Long-term treatment outcomes and patient adherence are crucial for managing MS.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the 3-year efficacy and tolerability of interferon beta-1a (Rebif) in patients with multiple sclerosis.
• To assess the impact of Rebif on exacerbation frequency and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores.
• To analyze patient adherence and adverse events associated with long-term Rebif treatment.

Summary:

• A 3-year study involved 141 patients with active relapsing-remitting MS (n=120) and secondary progressive MS (n=21) treated with interferon beta-1a (44 mcg, subcutaneously).
• Significant reductions in annual exacerbation frequency were observed within the first year of treatment.
• EDSS scores remained stable in 47.37% of relapsing-remitting MS and 57.14% of secondary progressive MS patients during the first year; only 5.26% experienced a one-point or greater EDSS increase over three years.
• The treatment was well-tolerated, with flu-like syndrome being the most common adverse effect (16.31%).
• High patient motivation and adherence were noted, with only 1.42% discontinuing treatment.

Impact:

• Interferon beta-1a (Rebif) demonstrates sustained efficacy in reducing MS relapses and stabilizing disability over three years.
• The findings support the long-term use of Rebif in managing both relapsing-remitting and secondary progressive MS.
• Good tolerability and high patient adherence contribute to the favorable long-term treatment profile of Rebif in MS care.