What are disease modifying therapies (DMT)?
Disease-modifying therapies are treatments which can change the natural course of the disease. With the help of a particular disease modifying therapy, a patient will have less disability than if he or she is left untreated. Currently there are five FDA-approved DMTs for RRMS. • Three of them are interferons (IFN) • One is a peptide, glatiramer acetate (GA) • One is a type of antibody, natulizumab Generic name Market Name Frequency FDA Approved Interferon IFN beta-1b Betaseron® 3 times a week 1993 Interferon IFN beta-1a Avonex® Once a week 1996 Interferon IFN beta-1a Rebif® 3 times a week 2002 Peptide glatiramer acetate (GA) Copaxone® Daily 1997 Monoclonal natulizumab Tysabri® Monthly IV infusion 2006 Unfortunately at this time there is no FDA approved DMT for primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS). However, based on individual case scenario, the neurologist may consider some treatment options in an attempt to slow the disease progression. There needs to be a clear understanding
