A recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, reports that Campath, a Genzyme (GENZ) drug already approved for leukemia, could be one of the most effective treatments for multiple sclerosis, as it shows potential for reversing the disease.  Researchers found patients on Campath recovered lost motor functions somewhat and, seemed less disabled three years after trial participation.  The study results suggest that Campath allows damaged nerve tissue to repair.

Encouraging though the results are, Genzyme Corp.’s Campath has the nasty side effect of causing Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a rare blood condition that can lead to abnormal bleeding and even death, as blood does not clot properly.  During the study six patients developed ITP and one died because of it.

Trying to expand the market for Campath or Alemtuzumab, Genzyme and its partner – Bayer AG say, the drug that was approved in 2001 for treating patients with a rare form of leukemia, can also help treat multiple sclerosis, a disease in which the immune system attacks the brain and spinal cord.  While, the Genzyme supported study reports the drug reduces the relapse risk for multiple sclerosis patients by 74%, researchers noted Campath tends to become less effective over time.

According to Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, there are over one million people worldwide with multiple sclerosis that causes the body’s defense mechanisms to attack protective coating around nerves, thus injuring the nerves, damaging coordination, strength and vision.  Other symptoms include double vision, fatigue, numbness or weakness in the limbs.

Despite the danger of ITP, Multiple Scleriosis (MS) specialists are excited about the new findings, giving hope to MS sufferers, even though further trials are recommended.