[Natalizumab in multiple sclerosis: unclear patient benefits]

Abstract

Two large randomised clinical trials were published in March 2006 that evaluated the effect of natalizumab on the incidence of disease exacerbation in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Both trials showed that natalizumab reduces the incidence of MS exacerbations, but it is unclear whether patients ultimately benefited from treatment. It is clear that natalizumab is associated with serious adverse events, such as progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. Therefore, the use of natalizumab in patients with MS cannot be considered advisable at this time.