What medication is given as a daily subcutaneous injection for multiple sclerosis?

What medication is given as a daily subcutaneous injection for multiple sclerosis?

• A. Fingolimod (Gilenya)
• B. Interferon beta-1a (Avonex)
• C. Glatiramer acetate (Copaxone)
• D. Natalizumab (Tysabri)

Answer: (C)

Glatiramer acetate (Copaxone) is indeed administered as a daily subcutaneous injection for patients with multiple sclerosis. This medication functions by modulating the immune system rather than suppressing it, which can help reduce the frequency of relapses in individuals with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis. The subcutaneous route allows for regular self-administration, which can enhance patient adherence to the medication regimen. In contrast, Fingolimod (Gilenya) is an oral medication, and though it has a different mechanism of action, it does not require injections. Interferon beta-1a (Avonex) is typically given as a weekly intramuscular injection, and Natalizumab (Tysabri) is administered via intravenous infusion, generally every four weeks. This distinction in administration routes and schedules is vital when considering treatment options for managing multiple sclerosis.

Glatiramer acetate (Copaxone) is indeed administered as a daily subcutaneous injection for patients with multiple sclerosis. This medication functions by modulating the immune system rather than suppressing it, which can help reduce the frequency of relapses in individuals with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis. The subcutaneous route allows for regular self-administration, which can enhance patient adherence to the medication regimen.

In contrast, Fingolimod (Gilenya) is an oral medication, and though it has a different mechanism of action, it does not require injections. Interferon beta-1a (Avonex) is typically given as a weekly intramuscular injection, and Natalizumab (Tysabri) is administered via intravenous infusion, generally every four weeks. This distinction in administration routes and schedules is vital when considering treatment options for managing multiple sclerosis.