Cladribine (2-chlorodeoxyadenosine)

 
 Cladribine is an immunosuppressive agent that leads to the destruction of relatively selective cells (apoptosis) and because of its toxicity and cellular resistance to adenosine deaminase. Has been studied in patients who suffer from MS, and is used in the treatment of lymphoid malignancies and other autoimmune diseases.

Results after the first year of a double-blind crossover study, and placebo in 50 patients with MS-out, which was scheduled to last two years are favorable. Patients remained (measured in degrees and the total volume of neural lesion on MRI) stable or improved in patients treated with cladribine, but it became worse in patients who received placebo. These positive results have not, however, in recent randomized Phase III study in 159 patients out with MS receiving cladribine administered two different doses (and reiterates 0.7 or 2.1 mg / kg) or placebo. Topics that were monthly assessments for 12 months, and the serial number undergo evaluation of disability scores and classroom MRI. Although treatment with cladribine have a major impact in reducing lesions on MRI, there was no significant impact on the deficit. Side effects of this drug are myelosuppression and susceptibility to viral infection (including herpes zoster).