News Center
Changes to Tysabri's Labeling
Two changes have recently been made to the labeling and prescribing information for Tysabri® (natalizumab). Manufactured and marketed by Biogen Idec and Elan, Tysabri is approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) as well as Crohn's disease.
Summer Research Update 2008
Numerous trials are currently being conducted to determine the safety and effectiveness of medications for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). Trials include FDA-approved drugs, experimental drugs (such as oral medications, monoclonal antibodies, and other treatments), as well as various combinations of drugs and doses
Tysabri Update
Two new cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), which is an often-fatal viral infection of the brain, have been reported in patients taking Tysabri® (natalizumab) for the long-term treatment of MS. These two cases were reported to the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on July 31, 2008. These are the first cases to be reported since the drug's re-release in June 2006.
The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America Awarded a Grant to Develop a Life Coaching Program
Through a charitable gift from the Bayer USA Foundation, the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) will develop a Life Coaching program for individuals in the multiple sclerosis (MS) community. This program will provide an innovative way for individuals with MS to interact with each other while developing critical problem-solving strategies. To help teach these skills, life coaches will use real life events to help find practical solutions to daily challenges individuals with MS might face. Life coaches will meet with clients through group sessions over the phone or online.
A Closer Look at MRIs
A Closer Look at The Value of MRIs is now available through the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America’s (MSAA) website. This three part video features: a person with multiple sclerosis (MS) offering a first-hand account on the experience of undergoing an MRI; a neurologist explaining how MRIs work as well as the importance of MRIs to monitor disease progression; and an MSAA representative discussing the financial resources available through MSAA for those seeking their first or follow-up MRI.
Spring Research Update
This research update focuses on trials currently being conducted to determine the safety and effectiveness of medications for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). Trials include FDA-approved drugs, experimental drugs (such as oral medications, monoclonal antibodies, and other treatments), as well as various combinations of drugs and doses.
Multiple Sclerosis Association of America Observes March as Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month
Join the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) in raising awareness for multiple sclerosis (MS) during the month of March. MSAA will be hosting various events designed to expand knowledge, understanding, and support of individuals whose lives are affected by multiple sclerosis. MSAA will also join other MS organizations to call on Congress for increased federal funding for MS research.
MSAA's Public Service Announcement Offers Information on the Importance of Disease Modifying Therapies for MS
On November 25, 2007 MSAA began airing two public service announcements nationwide that encourage individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) to adhere to an MS treatment plan, including one of the FDA-approved disease modifying therapies. MSAA’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jack Burks recommends that individuals with MS consult their physician, and if appropriate, begin treatment as soon as possible. Below are some helpful links on MS medications, MS, and MSAA.
