[Betaferon--first experience of application in treatment of multiple sclerosis in Russia]

32 patients (21-55 years old) with multiple sclerosis (MS) were treated. Remittent form of the disease was observed in 24 patients, secondary progressive one--in 8 individuals; the degree of disability was characterised as scores 0-3 (the first group) and scores 5-6 (the second one) according to scale EDSS. Betaferon was administered subcutaneously in the dose of 8 MIU every other day during the period from several months to 1 year and more. Improvement of the state was observed in 5 patients with remittent form, stop of the development of disease (absence of either aggravations or signs of MS progression) was found in 26 cases (21 with remittent form, 4 with secondary progressive form). The conclusion was made: betaferon cannot cure but can stop progression of the disease. Indications and contraindications for betaferon therapy were established and recommendations were given concerning regimen of the treatment prophylaxis and therapy of side-effects.