Natalizumab treatment for multiple sclerosis: updated recommendations for patient selection and monitoring
LANCET NEUROLOGY, vol.10, no.8, pp.745-758, 2011 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Review
- Volume: 10 Issue: 8
- Publication Date: 2011
- Doi Number: 10.1016/s1474-4422(11)70149-1
- Journal Name: LANCET NEUROLOGY
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
- Page Numbers: pp.745-758
- Istanbul University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Natalizumab, a highly specific alpha 4-integrin antagonist, is approved for treatment of patients with active relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). It is generally recommended for individuals who have not responded to a currently available first-line disease-modifying therapy or who have very active disease. The expected benefits of natalizumab treatment have to be weighed against risks, especially the rare but serious adverse event of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. In this Review, we revisit and update previous recommendations on natalizumab for treatment of patients with RRMS, based on additional long-term follow-up of clinical studies and post-marketing observations, including appropriate patient selection and management recommendations.