Abstract
Aim: To evaluate the clinical effect, radiological parameters, tolerability and adverse events in patients treated with pegylated interferon beta 1-a (PEG IFN). Patients and methods: A total of 117 patients with clinically isolated syndrome or relapse remitting form of multiple sclerosis were enrolled in the study, with regular clinical assessment including Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), laboratory monitoring, and MRI of the brain and spinal cord.
Results: Relapse of the disease was present in 10.6% of the patients. The progression on brain MRI was present in 22.6% of the patients.
There was significant improvement in EDSS (P = 0.049). In addition, the effect of treatment was demonstrated in patients with PEG IFN as a first-choice drug (P = 0.042) and in patients under 36 years of age (P < 0.001).
The most common side effects were local reactions (53.8%), flu-like syndrome (35.9% of patients), changes in blood count (29.9%) and elevation of liver enzymes (27.6%). Other side effects were uncommon.
Conclusion: PEG IFN is an effective and well tolerated drug with a favorable safety profile.