In the medical community, opinions on the matter differ. Others said having a drug approved for a higher dose may help patients. There are studies that seem to indicate higher doses are better, especially if the patient has more disability. Rebif comes in doses of up to 132 micrograms per week in Canada, while Avonex is approved for only 30 micrograms per week in Canada and the United States. O'Connor pointed out that the Canadian insurance system pays for only one dose.
Extra prescriptions can be prohibitive.
Better to go with Rebif, he said. Meanwhile, the FDA has declined to comment on the Rebif application. The agency is expected to issue its decree on the drug within the next few weeks, according to Serono officials. The financial stakes are huge. Avonex is extremely vital to Biogen,'' said David Molowa, a biotechnology analyst with Bear, Stearns in New York.