Interferon beta-1a belongs to a class of drugs known as interferons. These are the natural substances that transmit messages between cells. Interferons are specifically produced by the body and play a crucial role in the defence (immune) system.
The interferon beta 1a basically is a highly purified soluble protein which is identical to the natural interferon beta that is generally produced or formed in the human body.
Interferon beta-1a is approved in order to be used for the treatment of patients with multiple sclerosis. It reduces the number and the severity of the relapses and slows down the progression of disability. It may also be used in those patients who have experienced a single clinical event likely to be an initial sign of multiple sclerosis.
Dosage and Administration: The interferon beta 1a comes in order to be administered intramuscularly. The recommended interferon beta 1a dose is 30 micrograms once in a week. In order to reduce the incidence and severity of the flu-like symptoms that may develop when starting the therapy at 30 micrograms dose, interferon beta may be initiated at 7.5 micrograms dose and the dose may be increased by 7.5 micrograms each week for the next 3 weeks until the recommended dose of 30 micrograms is reached.
Possible side effects: Like all drugs, interferon beta can cause side effects, although not every individual gets them.
The most commonly reported side effects of interferon beta 1a are:
Diarrhoea
Nausea
Vomiting
Itching
Fatigue
Fever
Chills
Hair loss
Rash (skin eruptions)
Muscle/joints pain
Insomnia (sleeping difficulty)
This medication shouldn't be stopped/altered without your healthcare professional’s advice.
Warning and Precautions:
This interferon beta injection should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare practitioner.
The interferon b1a shouldn't be used in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to natural or recombinant interferon beta, or any other existing component of the formulation.
Patients treated with this drug should report immediately any symptoms of suicidal ideation, depression and psychosis to their doctor.
Patients receiving interferon beta 1 therapy should be monitored for the signs of hepatic injury.
In patients with the interferon, discontinue this drug if anaphylaxis or other allergic reactions appear.
Patients receiving beta interferons therapy should be monitored for the signs/symptoms of decreased blood counts.
If patients with interferon beta, have or develop symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, thyroid function tests need to be performed.
Women with childbearing age and taking treatment with beta interferon should avoid conceiving a child.
Nursing mothers with this medication are apprised to avoid breastfeeding, as it may be excreted in milk.
Overdose: In case of interferon beta overdose, contact your healthcare provider immediately or walk out to the nearest emergency hospital department.
Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, continue to inject from the day of the next scheduled dose. Do not use a double dose in order to catch up or make up for a forgotten dose.
Storage: Vials of interferon beta should be stored in a 2°C-8°C (36°F to 46°F) refrigerator. Should refrigeration be unavailable, vials can be stored at 25°C (77°F) for a period of up to 30 days. Avoid exposure to high temperatures. Freezing is not recommended. Protect it from light.
Cost: The interferon beta cost may vary depending on the wholesaler/pharmacy and of course the brand you choose. The beta interferon cost may range from 6,030 INR to 9,557 INR for the supply of single injection.
NOTE: The piece of information provided in this article about "Interferon beta-1a for Multiple Sclerosis" is just for informational purposes and is not served as a substitute for the medical treatment, consultation, diagnosis, of a qualified healthcare practitioner.