First glatiramer generic available to prescribe for MS

By Chloe Harman on the 21 February 2018

Brabio (glatiramer acetate) is a generic version of Copaxone which provides a potentially cheaper alternative treatment for relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS).

Glatiramer acetate is indicated for the treatment of relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). | DR P. MARAZZI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

The first available therapeutically equivalent version of Copaxone, Brabio is now available to prescribe for the treatment of relapsing forms of MS.

Further information

View Brabio drug records Summaries of Product Characteristics Further information: Mylan

Brabio is available in the same 20mg/ml and 40mg/ml prefilled syringe presentations as Copaxone, for once-daily and three-times weekly administration, respectively.

Glatiramer acetate is a synthetic protein that mimics myelin basic protein, a component of the myelin that insulates nerve fibres in the brain and spinal cord. It seems to block myelin-damaging T-cells through a mechanism that is not completely understood.

Early and ongoing treatment with disease-modifying therapies such as glatiramer is thought to be the best way to reduce future disease activity for people with relapsing forms of MS.