Last reviewed 2026-04-23 · How we verify

Glatiramer Acetate (OL)

Glatiramer acetate is a synthetic polypeptide that modulates immune responses by promoting anti-inflammatory T cell and B cell responses against myelin antigens.

Glatiramer acetate is a synthetic polypeptide that modulates immune responses by promoting anti-inflammatory T cell and B cell responses against myelin antigens. Used for Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), Clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) with high risk of MS.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Glatiramer acetate mimics myelin basic protein and acts as a decoy antigen, shifting the immune response from pro-inflammatory Th1 cells toward anti-inflammatory Th2 and regulatory T cells. This reduces autoreactive T cell attack on myelin in the central nervous system. The drug also promotes the expansion of myelin-reactive regulatory T cells that suppress pathogenic immune responses.

Approved indications

• Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS)
• Clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) with high risk of MS

Common side effects

• Injection site reactions (erythema, induration, pruritus)
• Immediate post-injection reaction (flushing, chest tightness, dyspnea, palpitations)
• Lipoatrophy at injection sites
• Headache
• Arthralgia
• Infection (upper respiratory)

Key clinical trials

• Evaluate Early Glatiramer Acetate Treatment in Delaying Conversion to Clinically Definite Multiple Sclerosis of Subjects Presenting With Clinically Isolated Syndrome (PHASE3)

Primary sources

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Competitive intelligence

For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:

• Glatiramer Acetate (OL) CI brief — competitive landscape report
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