Meta-analysis of clinical trials with copolymer 1 in multiple sclerosis

Eur Neurol. 2000;43(4):189-93. doi: 10.1159/000008174.

Abstract

Glatiramer acetate (copolymer 1) was licensed in the USA in 1996 for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. In order to assess its efficacy, a meta-analysis of all randomized controlled trials was performed. Two double-blind studies, accounting for a total number of 299 patients, contribute to this analysis. Patients undergoing the treatment have decreased probability of relapse at 12 months (OR 0.17, 95% CI 0.05-0.51, p = 0.002) and of unsustained progression of disability at 24 and 35 months (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0. 34-0.95, p = 0.031, and OR 0.50, 95% CI 0.28-0.90, p = 0.019). These data suggest that glatiramer acetate represents an alternative to interferon treatment in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. However, further evidence of efficacy is required to justify its use in clinical practice.

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Disease Progression
  • Glatiramer Acetate
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Multiple Sclerosis, Relapsing-Remitting / drug therapy*
  • Multiple Sclerosis, Relapsing-Remitting / physiopathology
  • Odds Ratio
  • Peptides / therapeutic use*
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Peptides
  • Glatiramer Acetate