Copaxone (glatiramer acetate) is a treatment option for multiple sclerosis (MS). Its exact mechanism of action is unknown. The Copaxone molecule resembles myelin basic protein (MBP). It is hypothesized that the T cells produced in response to Copaxone can suppress the immune attack on myelin, preventing demyelination and axonal damage. Preliminary research also suggests that Copaxone may have some neuroprotective properties, but more research is needed to confirm these findings.
With Copaxone, injection site reactions are common. Less frequent side effects include dilation of blood vessels, chest pain, and a reaction immediately after injection that causes palpitations, shortness of breath, and flushing. This generally lasts between 15 to 30 minutes, passes without treatment, and has no known long-term effects.
Copaxone (glatiramer acetate) is a treatment option for multiple
sclerosis (MS). Its exact mechanism of action is unknown. The
Copaxone molecule resembles myelin basic protein (MBP). It is
hypothesized that the T cells produced in response...
More
Stacy Wiegman answered:The exact mechanism by which Copaxone works to prevent multiple sclerosis (MS) relapses is not known. Copaxone is a combination of four amino acids that is antigenically similar to a protein in the myelin sheath of nerves. The immune system recognizes the Copaxone and attacks it instead of the protein in the myelin sheath. It is also thought that Copaxone increases production of and activates specific suppressor T-cells in the body. These T-cells of the immune system suppress the autoantibodies that cause the myelin sheath damage in MS.
Multiple Sclerosis Foundation answered:Copaxone (glatiramer acetate) is a treatment option for multiple sclerosis (MS). Its exact mechanism of action is unknown. The Copaxone molecule resembles myelin basic protein (MBP). It is hypothesized that the T cells produced in response to Copaxone can suppress the immune attack on myelin, preventing demyelination and axonal damage. Preliminary research also suggests that Copaxone may have some neuroprotective properties, but more research is needed to confirm these findings.
