Induction and add-on therapy with Mitoxantrone and Interferon beta in multiple sclerosis

We retrospectively analyzed data from 70 multiple sclerosis (MS) patients treated with mitoxantrone (MX) before Interferon-β (IFN-β) because of clinically and MRI very active isolated syndrome (CIS) or relapsing-remitting MS (induction therapy) or due to breakthrough/ persistently active disease in spite of IFN-β (add-on/combination therapy), or for increased disability suggesting a secondary progression (rescue therapy). After almost 2-year follow-up, relapse rate and disability decreased very significantly in the two former groups while MX was essentially ineffective as rescue therapy. Induction therapy is a valid option for very aggressive/active CIS and MS at onset.