Quality of life in people with multiple sclerosis receiving glatiramer acetate or interferon in Greek clinical practice.

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate glatiramer acetate (GA) or IFN-βeffects on qualityof life (QoL) in people with relapsing/remitting multiple sclerosis (PwRRMS) in Greece. Methods: A prospective, practice-based study. QoL/function/symptoms were assessed by sevenquestionnaires/scales. Results: Significant increases in Short Form-36 (SF-36) health survey scores occurred with GA in four of the eight domainsand three of the eightdomains at 6 and 12 months, respectively, versus baseline. Similar and significant SF-36 score improvements occurred with GA in treatment-naive PwRRMS. SF-36 scores were unaffected in GA-treated, IFN-β treatment-experienced PwRRMS, or with IFN-β versus baseline. Slight improvements in fatigue and sexual satisfaction were evident (6 months). No deteriorations were seen in the other fourinstruments. Conclusion: The findings show that12-month treatment with GA, but not IFN-β, improved certain QoL parameters in treatment-naive PwRRMS.