Recently the MS Society of Canada's
ASK MS Information Resource Centre has received several calls
about the possible availability of a drug called Ampligen®
(a synthetic nucleic acid). Since not much information is available
about this drug as yet, you may find the information helpful.
Ampligen®, a synthetic nucleic acid,
is manufactured by HemispheRx Biopharm Inc., Philadelphia,
Pa., USA.
Ampligen® is available under Canada's
Emergency Drug Release Program for HIV infection and chronic
fatigue syndrome. It is available for these two conditions
based on positive outcomes of clinical trials involving
HIV and chronic fatigue syndrome.
The drug is not available under the EDR
program to treat multiple sclerosis, since, as yet, there
have been no clinical trials into the use of Ampligen®
as a treatment for MS.
The medical director for HemispheRx Biopharm
Inc. said the company has no plans at this time to carry
out clinical trials into the use of Ampligen® in MS
since it is currently concentrating on bringing its product
to market for the other conditions. The company does not
rule out a study in the future, either conducted by the
company or in conjunction with other parties.
Interest in Ampligen as a possible treatment
for MS is based on recent information from several sources
that MS may be linked to human herpes virus 6 (HHV-6). HHV-6
is a common virus which causes Roseola, a childhood illness
characterized by short-term fever and a rash.
MS researchers are also studying several
other common viruses that have been suggested as MS "triggers".
These include the Epstein-Barr virus, human coronaviruses
(which cause respiratory infections) and the canine distemper
virus.
In HIV infections, Ampligen® appears
to direct the immune system to respond in a particular,
desirable way, thus allowing anti-AIDS drugs such as AZT
and protease inhibitors to work more effectively. How it
might work in MS is not known at this time.
This information has been forwarded to
the chair of the MS Society of Canada's Medical Advisory Committee
for further review.
Disclaimer
The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada is an independent,
voluntary health agency and does not approve, endorse or recommend
any specific product or therapy but provides information to
assist individuals in making their own decisions.
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Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada
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the nearest regional office: 1 800 268-7582
To locate the MS Society office near you, please select your region:
E-mail: info@mssociety.ca (Please provide your town and
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