(October 23, 2008)--A new drug could help treat debilitating symptoms of early stage multiple sclerosis according to research released Thursday.
A study led by scientists from the University of Cambridge in Great Britain found that the drug Alemtuzumab can stop the progression of disability in MS sufferers in the early stages of the condition.
Genzyme Corporation and Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, Inc. announced the findings.
"The alemtuzumab trial data continue to suggest a potentially new and exciting treatment for patients with early, active multiple sclerosis," said Alastair Compston, Professor of Neurology and the head of the Department of Clinical Neurosciences at the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom, and the study's principal investigator.
"This randomized study confirms findings from prior studies demonstrating that treatment with alemtuzumab can have a profound and durable impact on patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, including restoring some lost function in many patients."
"Symptoms of multiple sclerosis result from an immune system attack on the protective insulation surrounding nerve fibers of the central nervous system. We believe alemtuzumab shuts down this immune system attack, treating the disease at its root cause," said Alasdair Coles, Senior Lecturer, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge and a lead investigator in the study.
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