What is Interferon beta-1b?
Interferon beta-1b can be used to treat relapsing MS. Interferon beta-1b does not cure MS but may reduce flare-ups.This medication guide does not list all possible uses for interferon beta-1b.
Side effects of Interferon beta-1b
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek medical assistance immediately: hives, difficulty breathing or swelling of face, lips or throat.
Interferon has been associated with depression and thoughts of suicide in some patients. Tell your doctor if any of the symptoms are worsening or new. These include changes in mood or behavior, anxiety, and trouble sleeping.
Interferon beta-1b can cause serious side effects. Interferon beta-1b should be stopped immediately, and you should consult your doctor if:
- Fever, chills, sweating, tiredness, body aches;
- A seizure;
- Pain, swelling, or changes in the skin where an injection has been given
- Heart problems: chest tightness, swelling, and rapid weight gain.
- Liver problems: nausea; vomiting; itching. Easy bruising and unusual bleeding Dark urine. Jaundice.
- You may notice new or worsening lupus symptoms, such as joint discomfort and skin rash, that worsen in the sun.
Interferon beta-1b can cause a variety of side effects, including:
- Low white blood cell count
- Abnormal liver function tests
- Headache, weakness;
- Sleep problems (insomnia);
- Stomach pain;
- Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness;
- Rash;
- Flu symptoms
- A skin reaction occurs where the medication was injected.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Warnings
If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as swelling, a rash, or itchiness in your mouth, seek emergency medical attentioninterferon beta-1b may cause suicidal thoughts in some individuals. Be wary if any changes occur in your mood or symptoms. Inform your doctor if you experience any new symptoms or if they worsen.
Your liver can be damaged by interferon beta-1b. If you experience nausea, vomiting, itchiness, bleeding, bruising, or yellowing in your skin or eyes, call your doctor immediately.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to interferon, albumin, or Mannitol, then you should not use interferon beta-1b.
Tell your doctor about any of the following:
- Liver disease
- Heart problems
- A seizure;
- Anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders;
- A bleeding or blood-clotting disorder;
- Low white blood cell counts
- Anaemia (lack of red blood cells);
- Allergy to Latex
Inform your physician if you are pregnant or nursing.
How to take interferon beta-1b?
Read and follow all instructions or guides included with your medication.Sometimes, your doctor will change the dose. You must take the medication exactly as prescribed. Interferon beta-1b injections are usually given every other day. You may be taught how to use the medication properly by a healthcare provider. Please read and follow all directions that accompany your medication carefully. If there are any unclear parts, consult your physician or pharmacist immediately for assistance.
Only prepare an injection when you're ready to administer it. If the medicine is cloudy, has changed color, or contains particles, do not use it. For new medicine, call your pharmacist. Your healthcare provider can show you the best place to inject beta-1b interferon. Each time you inject, use a new place. Don't inject in the same spot twice. Medical tests will be required frequently.
Store the unmixed interferon Beta-1b and diluent in a cool, dry place away from heat and moisture. Store the medicine in the fridge and use it within 3 hours. Do not freeze. Each vial or prefilled syringe can only be used once. Even if the medicine is still inside, throw it out after use. Interferon beta-1b not used in 3 months should be thrown away.
Only use a needle or syringe once, and then store them in an "as sharps" container that is puncture-proof. Be sure to follow local or state laws on how to properly dispose of the container. Keep the container out of reach of pets and children.
Details on dosage
Adult dose for multiple sclerosis:
Initial dose: 0.0625mg subcutaneously every alternate day. Increased (in 25% increments every 2 weeks) every 6 weeks to the maintenance dose
Maintenance dose: 0.25mg subcutaneously every alternate day.
Schedule for dose titration:
In weeks 1 and 2, 0.0625 mg percutaneously every alternate day (25%)
In weeks 3 and 4, 0.125 mg subcutaneously twice daily (50% of the recommended dosage)
In weeks 5 and 6, 0.1875 mg percutaneously every alternate day (75% of the recommended dose)
After week 7: 0.25 mg percutaneously every alternate day (100% recommended dose).
Use: To reduce the frequency and severity of exacerbations in patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis. Patients with multiple sclerosis who are efficacious include those with a first clinical episode and MRI features that are consistent with multiple sclerosis.
What happens if I miss the dose?
As soon as you realize that you have missed a dose, take it as soon as possible. Wait at least 48 (two) hours before you inject again. Restart your schedule then. Use no more than one shot every 48 hours.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
Interferon beta-1b should not be injected into infected, sore, or red skin.Avoid alcohol. Alcohol can increase the risk of liver disease.
Interaction with other drug
Interferon beta-1b can be affected by other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are currently taking and those that you have started or stopped using.
