Multiple-sclerosis drug capable of causing serious liver injury

WASHINGTON Tysabri, a drug used for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, is capable of causing serious liver injury according to Biogen Idec and Elan Corp.

The companies sent warning letters to doctors stating that they received “clinically significant” reports that patients that were treated with Tysabri were experiencing liver injury as soon as six days after their first dose, the Wall Street Journal reported.

After being taken off the market in 2005 for possible causes of brain infection, Tysabri is sold under what is called a “restricted-distribution program”, in which patients are routinely monitored for possible brain infections or other injuries.

According to Shannon Altimari of Biogen, there were about 1000 patients with liver injuries out of the 21,000 that have been treated with Tysabri as of December. The letter given by the companies urges doctors to stop treatment if they see any liver injury or jaundice.