Comparison of Bone Effects With Copaxone and Interferon in Multiple Sclerosis
Comparison of Bone Effects With Copaxone and Interferon in Multiple Sclerosis
The purpose of this study is to determine if certain drugs commonly used to treat multiple
 sclerosis have an effect on bone health.
There will be 60 female patients with MS at University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC). They
 will be split into two groups: a Copaxone group and an Interferon (Avonex, Rebif, or
 Betaseron) group. Each group will be composed of 30 women matched for menopausal status. Each
 subject will be given a questionnaire assessing risk factors for low bone density. All
 patients will have a determination of an Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), height and
 weight, medical history, and fracture history. All patients will undergo hip and spine dual
 x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and will have labs drawn to determine serum 25 hydroxyvitamin D,
 parathyroid hormone, ionized calcium, estradiol, bone-specific acetyl phosphatase,
 osteocalcin, and C-peptides.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  Female, age > 18

 -  Able to understand and give informed consent

 -  Relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS)

 -  Treatment with interferons or Copaxone for at least one year prior to study entry

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  Known osteoporosis

 -  History of hypercalcemia

 -  Currently pregnant

 -  History of primary hyperparathyroidism, hyperthyroidism, or hypothyroidism

 -  Unstable medical condition

 -  Ongoing use of bisphosphonates