Interferon Beta 1a

Interferon Beta 1a is a prescription medicine used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (a disease in which the immune system cells starts damaging the insulating covers of the brain and spinal cord cells leading to different types of physical, mental and psychiatric problems). Interferon Beta 1a is given under the supervision of a healthcare professional. If you have missed a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Do not skip any doses and finish the full course of treatment even if you feel better. It is important that this medication is not stopped suddenly without talking to your doctor. Some common side effects of using this medication are headache, sweating, fever, chills and flu-like symptoms. These are usually temporary and normally go away on their own in some time. However, you should inform your doctor immediately if they last longer or become severe. Your doctor may advise for regular monitoring of liver function, thyroid function, and blood cell count. It is important to inform your doctor if you develop any unusual changes in mood or behavior, new or worsening depression, or suicidal thoughts. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should consult their doctor before taking this medicine. Interferon Beta 1a is an immunomodulator. It lowers the chances of multiple sclerosis by reducing the inflammation and preventing nerve damage.

• Multiple sclerosis (MS)

Interferon beta 1a alters the expression and response to surface antigens and can improve immune cell activities. It has antiviral and immunomodulating properties.

Adult Dose: Parenteral Multiple sclerosis Adult: Dose depends on the formulation used. Intramuscular 30 mcg IM qWk May be titrated using the titration kit with prefilled IM syringes starting with 7.5 mcg IM for first week, to reduce flu-like symptoms; increase by 7.5 mcg/week for next 3 weeks until recommended dose of 30 mcg/week Administration: Rotate IM injection sites between upper thighs and arms Subcutaneous 44 mcg target dose Weeks 1-2: 8.8 mcg SC 3 times/wk (at least 48 hr apart) Weeks 3-4: 22 mcg SC 3 times/wk Weeks 5+: 44 mcg SC 3 times/wk 22 mcg target dose Weeks 1-2: 4.4 mcg SC 3 times/wk (at least 48 hr apart) Weeks 3-4: 11 mcg SC 3 times/wk Weeks 5+: 22 mcg SC 3 times/wk Administration: Abdomen (except waistline), thigh, arm, buttocks Child Dose: Safety and efficacy not established

Your doctor or nurse will give you this medicine. Kindly do not self administer.

If you miss a dose of Interferon Beta 1a, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Common: • Headache • Sweating • Fever • Chills • Flu-like symptoms

[UNSAFE] Interferon Beta 1a may decrease alertness, affect your vision or make you feel sleepy and dizzy. Do not drive if these symptoms occur. Interferon Beta 1a is given as an injection into the muscles, usually 3 times a week. Do not skip any dose and finish the complete course even if you feel better. Use caution while driving or doing anything that requires concentration as Interferon Beta 1a can cause dizziness. Your doctor may regularly monitor your liver function, thyroid function, and blood cell counts while taking this medicine. Talk to your doctor if you notice sudden mood changes or develop suicidal thoughts.

Hypersensitivity to beta interferons, albumin (for albumin-containing formulations)

May increase the adverse effects (especially granulocytopenia) of ACE inhibitors. Increased risk of hepatic injury when used with hepatotoxic drugs. May increase serum levels of theophylline derivatives. May increase the anticoagulant effects of warfarin. May decrease the metabolism of zidovudine.

[UNSAFE] It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Interferon Beta 1a.

[CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR] Interferon Beta 1a may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Although there are limited studies in humans, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing it to you. Please consult your doctor.

[SAFE IF PRESCRIBED] Interferon Beta 1a is probably safe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug does not represent any significant risk to the baby.

[CAUTION] Interferon Beta 1a should be used with caution in patients with severe kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Interferon Beta 1a may be needed. Please consult your doctor. [CAUTION] Interferon Beta 1a should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Interferon Beta 1a may be needed. Please consult your doctor.