Cuevas C, Velázquez QM, Núñez L, Skromne E, Árcega R, Barroso N, Cabañas A, Colorado H, Dávila G, De la Maza M, Duriez E, García F, González V, Juárez R, Laventman-Grinberg J, Lifshitz A, Lozano ED, Lozano J, Pérez ZJA, Rodríguez M, Rojas FI

Language: Spanish
References: 18
Page: 155-162
PDF size: 77.37 Kb.

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Multiple Sclerosis represents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge in developing countries since treatment delay is associated to disability while the costs of the approved pharmacological agents have a great economic impact. This Mexican consensus was developed with the aim to analyse the necessary procedures and requirements for the comprehensive care of the disease. Material and methods: A meeting consensus was carried out with the attendance of 21 physicians from seven states of the country, specialists in neurology, neuropediatrics, neuroepidemiology and neuroophthalmology, as well as professionals in areas of administration and teaching. The principal health institutions, both public and private, were represented. Results: The necessary diagnostic and therapeutic procedures were analysed according to scientific evidence; commentaries on availability in the country and guidelines and algorithms for their application were elaborated. Discussion: It is recommended that health institutions provide all the approved medications to allow physicians to choose the adequate treatment, according to the patient’s condition. Authorization of “generic” interferons (biosimilars) for sale or institutional use is a matter of concern for Mexican neurologists, since regulatory agencies with international impact (i.e. FDA, EMEA) have not approved these products because there is not evidence on their efficacy and safety, neither represent any economic advantage. The present guidelines constitute a medical proposal to develope Official Mexican Norms for the therapeutic management of multiple sclerosis.

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18. http://consensus.nih.gov