Lancet
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study Clinical Trial
Randomised double-blind placebo-controlled study of interferon beta-1a in relapsing/remitting multiple sclerosis. PRISMS (Prevention of Relapses and Disability by Interferon beta-1a Subcutaneously in Multiple Sclerosis) Study Group.
Previous trials of interferon beta in multiple sclerosis (MS) have shown efficacy, but the degree of clinical benefit remains uncertain, and the optimum dose is not known. We undertook a double-blind, placebo-controlled study in relapsing/remitting MS to investigate the effects of subcutaneous interferon beta-1a. ⋯ Subcutaneous interferon beta-1a is an effective treatment for relapsing/remitting MS in terms of relapse rate, defined disability, and all MRI outcome measures in a dose-related manner, and it is well tolerated. Longer-term benefits may become clearer with further follow-up and investigation.