Mitoxantrone has been used in the past for prostate cancer and leukemia but latest research proved its immunosuppressant character and thus, its efficiency in dealing with MS. By reducing the activity of the immune system, mitoxantrone slows the activity of MS and decreases the frequency of relapses.

The treatment with this medicine once every three months and a complete treatment may get to three years. FDA doesn't recommend a too large total amount because it damages the heart. Mitoxantrone was approved by the FDA to treat three forms of progressive MS: secondary - progressive MS, progressing - relapsing MS and advanced relapsing - remitted MS.

There are only two medicines that can deal with progressive MS. One of them is betaseron, mitoxantrone - the other. The first one is to be preferred because it doesn't affect the heart like mitoxantrone does. It is recommended though, in case you can't tolerate betaseron.

Mitoxantrone decreases the number of attack and lesions of the brain and spinal cord and slows the progress of MS in people with secondary - progressive MS and also the other types.

The side effects of mitoxantrone include very severe damage of the heart, even little cases. The heart should be permanently monitored, and the doses decreased so that it causes less harm to this vital organ. 12 doses are recommended: one every three months, for about three years.

Other side effects include:

* - Nausea

* - Hair loss

* - Changes of the menstrual cycles in women

* - Diarrhea or constipation

* - Increased risks of UTI and other infections

* - Mouth sores

Because of the severe side effects, this medicine tends to be used more in specialized clinics for MS under the strict supervisions of neurologists and other specialists.

As it is also the case with interferon beta, mitoxantrone treatment should include frequent tests of blood to determine whether the number of leukocytes is normal and the liver functions properly.

It is not recommended during pregnancy, in case of heart conditions, liver or blood disorders because it may increase the complications.