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How quickly does Mavenclad work?

Medically reviewed by Leigh Ann Anderson, PharmD. Last updated on Aug 2, 2023.

Official answer

by drugclasses.com

Studies evaluating the use of Mavenclad (generic name: cladribine) for multiple sclerosis (MS) found a reduction in MS relapses (flare-ups) over about a two year period. A relapse is a period of time when MS symptoms get worse.

  • Over 96 weeks, 81% of patients who took Mavenclad were relapse-free compared to 63% of those who took a placebo.
  • Mavenclad also decreased 3-month progression of disability (worsening) due to MS when compared to a placebo.
  • It also significantly reduced the median number of MRI lesions when compared to a placebo at 96 weeks.

In the clinical trial program of Mavenclad in MS, the mean time in the study (including follow-up) was almost 5 years, and roughly one-quarter of patients who received treatment had 8 years of time in the study, including follow-up.

Mavenclad works over the long-term, but for most patients, the active ingredient in Mavenclad does not remain in the body beyond one week after administration. However, long-term safety concerns exist with Mavenclad, and you should discuss these with your doctor before starting treatment.

This is not all the information you need to know about Mavenclad (generic name: cladribine) for safe and effective use. Review the full Mavenclad information here, and discuss this information with your doctor or other health care provider.

References

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What are 8 key Mavenclad side effects to watch out for?

8 key side effects with Mavenclad use include a risk of cancer, birth defects in an unborn baby, a severe brain infection called PML, liver toxicity, other types of infections like shingles, tuberculosis or hepatitis, allergic reactions, heart failure and low white blood cell counts. Continue reading

How effective is Mavenclad for MS?

In the study, Mavenclad significantly decreased the number of relapses (the primary endpoint of the study) when compared to a placebo (an inactive treatment). Over the 96 weeks, 81% of patients who took Mavenclad were relapse-free compared to 63% of those who took a placebo. Continue reading

Is Mavenclad a chemotherapy drug?

No, Mavenclad is not a chemotherapy (cancer) drug. It is an oral purine antimetabolite approved for the treatment of relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), to include relapsing-remitting disease and active secondary progressive disease, in adults. Mavenclad tablets are taken by mouth and are given as two yearly treatment courses. Continue reading

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