Glatiramer Acetate
Written By Dr. Anuj Saini
Reviewed By Dr. Rajeev SharmaLast updated 25 Nov 2025 | 09:34 AM (UTC)
Glatiramer Acetate Uses
Glatiramer Acetate is used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS).
How Glatiramer Acetate works
Glatiramer acetate belongs to a class of drugs called immunomodulatory agents. It works by modifying the body’s immune system and thereby preventing the damage to the insulating covers (myelin sheath) and protecting the brain and spinal cord cells, however the exact mechanism by which it modifies the body’s immune system is not known.
Common side effects of Glatiramer Acetate
Rash, Breathlessness, Chest pain, Vasodilation, Injection site reaction
Want to Know More
Read Our Editorial PolicyMedicine brands for Glatiramer Acetate
Expert advice for Glatiramer Acetate
- Glatiramer Acetate helps reduce the number of times you suffer attacks of MS (relapses).
- It is injected into the tissue under the skin (subcutaneous tissue) only. Never inject it into a vein or a muscle.
- A different injection site should be used for each dose.
- Always store your injections in the refrigerator (2°C to 8°C).
- Never use the same syringe more than once. Discard any unused product or waste.
- It may cause symptoms such as flushing, chest pain, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing that normally go away on their own within half an hour. Inform your doctor immediately if they last longer or become severe.
- Glatiramer Acetate helps reduce the number of times you suffer attacks of MS (relapses).
- It is injected into the tissue under the skin (subcutaneous tissue) only. Never inject it into a vein or a muscle.
- A different injection site should be used for each dose.
- Always store your injections in the refrigerator (2°C to 8°C).
- Never use the same syringe more than once. Discard any unused product or waste.
- It may cause symptoms such as flushing, chest pain, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing that normally go away on their own within half an hour. Inform your doctor immediately if they last longer or become severe.
Frequently asked questions for Glatiramer Acetate
Glatiramer Acetate is an immunomodulatory agent. It works by modifying the body's immune system and thereby preventing the damage to the insulating covers (myelin sheath) and protecting the brain and spinal cord.
Glatiramer Acetate is used for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (disease in which the immune system i.e. the cells responsible for defense in the body and damages the insulating covers (myelin sheath) of the brain and spinal cord cells leading to different types of physical, mental and psychiatric problems) and to reduce the frequency of recurrences of the attacks of multiple sclerosis in ambulatory patients (i.e. who can walk without help) with relapsing, remitting multiple sclerosis characterized by at least two attacks in the past two year period.