10 disease-modifying treatment options
Each medication is different in terms of how it is administered, its history of use, side effects and more. Explore the available options, beginning with this list.
Brand name: Betaseron®
Chemical name: interferon beta-1b
Frequency: Every other day; subcutaneous (injected just under the skin)
Year approved: 1993
For more info or financial help: 800-788-1467, betaseron.com/betaplus/affordability
Brand name: Avonex®
Chemical name: interferon beta-1a
Frequency: Once a week; intramuscular (injected directly into a muscle)
Year approved: 1996
For more info or financial help: 800-456-2255, msactivesource.com
Brand name: Copaxone®
Chemical name: glatiramer acetate
Frequency: Daily; subcutaneous
Year approved: 1996
For more info or financial help: 800-887-8100, copaxone.com/aboutsharedsolutions.aspx
Brand name: Novantrone®
Chemical name: mitoxantrone
Frequency: Every three months
Year approved: 2000
For more info or financial help: nationalMSsociety.org/novantrone
Brand name: Rebif®
Chemical name: interferon beta-1a
Frequency: Three times weekly; subcutaneous
Year approved: 2002
For more info or financial help: 877-447-3243, mslifelines.com
Brand name: Tysabri®
Chemical name: natalizumab
Frequency: Every four weeks
Year approved: 2006
For more info or financial help: 800-456-2255, msactivesource.com
Brand name: Extavia®
Chemical name: interferon beta-1b
Frequency: Every other day; subcutaneous
Year approved: 2009
For more info or financial help: 800-245-5356, patientassistancenow.com
Brand name: Gilenya®
Chemical name: fingolimod
Frequency: Once a day
Year approved: 2010
For more info or financial help: 800-245-5356, patientassistancenow.com
Brand name: Aubagio®
Chemical name: teriflunomide
Frequency: Once a day
Year approved: 2012
For more info or financial help: 855-676-6326, MSOnetoOne.com
Brand name: Tecfidera™
Chemical name: dimethyl fumarate
Frequency: Twice a day
Year approved: 2013
For more info or financial help: 800-456-2255, msactivesource.com
Tags: Winter 2013-14, Winter 2013-2014