Avonex vs. Plegridy
Hello,
I read in a September 20, 2014, article titled "What is the difference between Avonex and Plegridy?" the following:
Avonex - 61% decrease in relapse rate compared to those who took a placebo.
78% had no increase in disability.
Plegridy - 35% decrease in relapse rate compared to those who took a placebo.
38% decrease in relapse rate compared to those who took a placebo.
I started using Avonex in 2008 until 2016. Avonex worked good for me and I didn't experience any relapses. Switched to Plegridy in 2016 cause it seemed like the improved version of Avonex since both are part of the interferon beta-1a family. But, Plegridy is subcu every 2 weeks injection while Avonex is an intramuscular every week injection.
Looking at the numbers from the 2014 article, seems that Avonex has the superior results.
Do the same numbers apply for Avonex plus for Plegridy in 2021?
I meant 38% had no increase in disability. 
, thanks for bringing up this topic! Have you discussed your research with your physician? Were there other reasons you switched from Avonex to Plegridy?
My knowledge of these treatments is limited, but if one works better for you than the other, then you might find that a better fit for you, regardless of the data. That said, I understand switching to a subcu, bi-weekly shot as opposed to a weekly, intramuscular one has some obvious advantages. I did some digging and didn't find much better data than you did. If I happen to find more recent data numbers (especially on efficacy and results), I will share them here and please feel free to do the same! Knowledge is power!
Data definitely matters, but what it really comes down to is what works best for YOU.
Best, Erin, MultipleSclerosis.net Team Member.Did a little more digging:
Avonex reduced the relapse rate by 32% compared to placebo and also reduced the number of brain lesions on MRI.
Plegridy reduced the relapse rate by 35.6% in the two weekly dosing group compared to placebo. Plegridy also reduced the number of brain lesions on MRI and the risk of worsening disability.
Tecfidera twice daily reduced the number of relapses in one year by 53%. Tecfidera twice daily reduced the risk of 3 month disability progression by 38%. But, the side effects are more serious, including decrease in white blood cells (can lead to PML).
Seems like Avonex or Plegridy is the safer plus effective choice.
I also should add that I've taken breaks from using Avonex or Plegridy at times over the years... just to give my body a break from regular medical injections. Since I'm usually asymptomatic it never caused a problem.
Recently, have experienced a few balance problems and will resume Plegridy shortly. The last shot I gave myself was in December. a break of 9 months.It sounds like you've done your research,
! It also sounds like you know what works for you and your body.
Thanks for sharing the information you dug up, as this could be really helpful for other community members!
I hope starting injections again goes smoothly for you!
Best, Erin, MultipleSclerosis.net Team Member.
