The role and efficacy of Natalizumab

Natalizumab is a disease-modifying drug that relieves symptoms of multiple sclerosis and Crohn's disease by reducing inflammation. Lesion reduction was observed in multiple sclerosis patients treated with natalizumab. Natalizumab increases the number of circulating leukocytes, including lymphocytes, monocytes, basophils, and eosinophils; this effect is attributed to natalizumab's inhibition of their migration out of the vascular space. Natalizumab did not affect the absolute count of circulating neutrophils.

Natalizumab has been shown to slow the progression of MS in people with it and reduce the rate of relapses in people with relapsing-remitting MS. In a randomized, placebo-controlled study, 77% of patients were relapse-free after 1 year. The 2-year recurrence-free rate in the natalizumab group was 67%.

When comparing MRI images of participants who received natalizumab and placebo, the results showed that patients who received natalizumab had 83% fewer lesions detected on T2-weighted MRI and 83% fewer lesions on gadolinium-enhanced MRI images compared with patients who received placebo. A controlled trial of natalizumab compared the average number of new lesions over 6 months in three groups: placebo, natalizumab 3 mg/kg, and natalizumab 6 mg/kg. In the monoclonal antibody group, the average number of new lesions in patients who received natalizumab3 mg and 6 mg was 0.7 and 1.1, respectively.

Natalizumab's original patent drug is not marketed in the country and cannot be included in medical insurance. Currently, the generic drug natalizumab on the market overseas may cost more than 8,000 US dollars per box (the price may fluctuate due to exchange rates), which is very expensive. For more drug information and specific prices, please consult Yaode Medical Consultant.