The multiple sclerosis drug Natalizumab (branded Tysabri), made by Biogen Idec and Elan Pharmaceuticals was voluntarily withdrawn from sale by its manufacturers following complications in patients.

Results from the two-year trial were published in the New England Journal of Medicine on Wednesday and the study showed some very remarkable results!  The drug reduced the risk of sustained progression of disability from MS by 42% in a study of about 1000 patients.  The drug also decreased the frequency of clinical relapses, due to MS, by 68%.

However, three patients taking the drug in different trials, two in an MS trial and one being treated for the inflammation of the digestive tract caused by Crohn’s disease – developed PML. Two of the patients died as a result of this complication.

So now it comes time to weight the possible bennifits against the extra risks which appear to be associated with this treatment.  Since this drug appears to work almost twice as well as anything currently on the market we are certainly positive in our outlook for it’s use.