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The efficacy of azathioprine in the treatment of multiple sclerosis was assessed by meta-analysis of the results of all published blind, randomised,controlled trials.793 patients were enrolled in 5 double-blind and 2 single-blind studies.After 1 year of treatment,the increase in Kurtzke disability status score was no different in treated and control groups,but at 2 years there was a small difference(-0-22;95%confidence interval[CI]-0-43,0-003)in favour of azathioprine treatment;this difference was sustained,but not increased,after 3 years.The probability of freedom from any relapse during 1,2,and 3 years'treatment was significantly greater in the azathioprine-treated group(relative odds over 3 years,1-97;95%CI 1-27,3-04),but it is debatable whether the slight clinical benefits of azathioprine outweight its side-effects. |
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