"European researchers have uncovered new evidence that Copaxone not only reduces relapse rate in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis but also encourages the release of a factor that helps protect the brain from axonal loss." Teva said in a statement.
A study published in the November issue of Brain showed that Copaxone, a non-interferon treatment for RRMS, stimulates T-cells - which help protect the body from invasive bodies such as viruses and bacteria - to produce a neuroprotection factor called BDNF, for brain-derived neurotrophic factor.
BDNF is a key biochemical that encourages nerve tissue survival, Teva said it its announcement. It also regulates the release of neurotransmitter, a biochemical that mediates nervous responses, and regulates nerve growth.
Previous studies have shown that BDNF helps rescue damaged nerve cells and encourages the growth of branches, called axons, from nerve cells. It can also help restore the fatty myelin sheathe that coats nerve cells, Teva said, and protect axons from elimination during the course of degenerative diseases.
Teva noted that Copaxone is now approved for sale in 41 countries. It is sold through Teva Pharmaceutical Industries and Aventis in Europe, and through Teva Neuroscience in North America.
Teva Pharmaceuticals (Nasdaq:TEVA) announced that it believes its drug Copaxone may have potential in saving damaged nerve cells.