FDA Approves New MS Treatment: Plegridy

Statistics show that an estimated 2.3 million people around the world suffer from multiple sclerosis (MS): a neuro-degenerative illness that attack's the body's nervous system, inhibiting an individual's ability to walk, speak and function properly.

Now, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new treatment for the illness known as Plegridy through Biogen Idec Inc (BIIB), a company that specializes in developing drugs for neuro-degenerative diseases, autoimmune diseases, and hemophilia. Officials from the company are hopeful that the new product could be a step forward in lowering relapse risk as well as slowing the disease's progression.

"We believe Plegridy has the potential to be the leading interferon on the market," said Tony Kingsley, Biogen's head of global commercial operations at Biogen Idec Inc (BIIB), in a news release. "As the class shrinks, we will be in a position gain share within that class. The most convenient product wins over time."

The drug needs to be used every two weeks, as opposed to similar treatments, such as Avonex, which must be taken weekly. Avonex is also injected into the skin intramuscularly with a larger needle, while Plegridy is injected subcutaneously or anywhere beneath the skin and will potentially be more comfortable for users with a smaller needle for insertion.

The drug will be ready to market soon, according to Kingsley, and is the fourth MS treatment to be approved by the FDA.