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The BENEFIT Study
BETASERON is the only high-dose, high-frequency interferon beta FDA-approved for treatment at the first MS event.1
Based upon the results of the BENEFIT study, the FDA expanded the use of BETASERON to include use in people in the earliest stages of MS. For example, this first episode might be an attack of optic neuritis, which is an inflammation of the optic nerve that causes vision problems. They might also have magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans that suggest they are at risk for MS.
The BENEFIT study showed that treatment with BETASERON at the first event slowed the progression to clinically diagnosed MS. The study also showed that2:
- 85% of people who have had a first event will develop MS* within 2 years if left untreated. Early treatment with BETASERON may help slow disease activity, and may even delay the time to a second event
- Treatment with BETASERON at the first event may lower a patient's risk of developing clinically definite MS by up to 60%
- In the 2-year BENEFIT study, people who were treated with BETASERON at the first event may lower the risk of a second MS attack by 50%
The key message of the BENEFIT study is that BETASERON is a treatment that works at the first sign of MS. In other words, for best results, treatment with BETASERON should be started right away, because every moment BETASERON is delayed is a moment you may not get back.2
Read the official BENEFIT Study Press Release
Learn about the long-term safety of BETASERON
*By MRI criteria.
References:- 1. Betaseron [package insert]. Wayne, NJ: Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals Inc.; 2007.
- 2. Kappos L, Polman CH, Freedman MS, et al, for the BENEFIT Study Group. Treatment with interferon beta-1b delays conversion to clinically definite and McDonald MS in patients with clinically isolated syndromes. Neurology. 2006;67:1242-1249.
BETASERON® (Interferon beta-1b) is indicated for the treatment of relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis to reduce the frequency of clinical exacerbations. Patients with multiple sclerosis in whom efficacy has been demonstrated include patients who have experienced a first clinical episode and have MRI features consistent with multiple sclerosis.
Important Safety Information
The most commonly reported adverse reactions are lymphopenia, injection-site reaction, asthenia, flu-like symptom complex, headache and pain. Gradual dose titration and use of analgesics during treatment initiation may help reduce flu-like symptoms. BETASERON should be used with caution in patients with depression. Injection-site necrosis has been reported in 4% of patients in controlled trials. Patients should be advised of the importance of rotating injection sites. Female patients should be warned about the potential risk to pregnancy. Cases of anaphylaxis have been reported rarely. See "Warnings," "Precautions," and "Adverse Reactions" sections of full Prescribing Information.
