Natalizumab, more popularly known as its brand name, Tysabri, is a Disease Modifying Therapy (DMT) that treats relapsing forms of Multiple Sclerosis through a monthly intravenous dosage. Walter Gefrom discusses the new generic version that is being proposed:
Tysabri, or Natalizumab, is the leading and arguably most effective Disease Modifying Therapy (DMT) for patients with relapsinig forms of MS, including Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS), Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS), Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS) and Crohn’s disease. The DMT has been revered by many patients and neurologists, who have witnessed firsthand how effective this medication can be. However, Tysabri is also one of the most expensive MS DMTs, with its manufacturer Biogen cornering the market on its production. But that may now change thanks to a biosimilar version of Natalizumab which has just been accepted by the US FDA and EMA. Walter Gefrom, MS Awareness Advocate, is hopeful that this will put the pressure on Biogen to decrease the cost of Tysabri. Unfortunately, it is the high price tag of this medication that often keeps patients from receiving its benefits.
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