Medications and Drugs

GENERIC NAME: INTERFERON BETA-1A - PREFILLED INJ SYRINGE (in-ter-FEER-on BAY-tuh)

BRAND NAME(S): Avonex

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: This medication is used to treat multiple sclerosis (MS). Interferon is not a cure for MS, but it may help to decrease the number of attacks of weakness and slow the progression of the disease.

HOW TO USE: Inject this medicine usually once a week into a muscle (IM) or as directed by your doctor. Give the shot in the evening before bedtime to minimize side effects. Learn how to prepare and inject interferon by reviewing the Medication Guide with your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. To increase comfort, take this medication out of the refrigerator and let it warm to room temperature for about 30 minutes before injecting. Before using this product, check it visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use it. The thigh and upper arm muscles are recommended sites for the shot. Use a different spot each week. Do not inject into skin that is irritated or infected. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Never reuse syringes or needles. Consult your pharmacist. Use this medicine regularly as directed in order to get the most benefit. Use it at the same time each week. Do not change the dose or how often you use this medication without your doctor's approval. Inform your doctor if your condition worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Flu-like symptoms such as headache, fatigue, fever, chills, and muscle aches may occur when you first start this medication. These symptoms usually last about a day after the shot and improve or go away after a few months of continued use. You can minimize these side effects by injecting this medicine at bedtime and using fever reducers/pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen before each dose. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes (e.g., depression, thoughts of suicide, new or worsening psychiatric symptoms), hair loss, vision changes, persistent fatigue, numbness/tingling/swelling of the hands/ankles/feet, muscle weakness, trouble breathing, sudden weight gain, gradual change in weight (without a change in diet or exercise), cold or heat intolerance, slow/fast/irregular heartbeat. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: chest pain, easy bleeding or bruising, signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat), seizures, yellowing eyes or skin, persistent nausea/vomiting, stomach/abdominal pain, dark urine. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.