COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Rebif
GENERIC NAME(S): INTERFERON BETA-1A/ALBUMIN HUMAN
Description: Interferon beta 1a has antiviral and immunomodulating properties that alters the expression and response to surface antigens and can improve immune cell activities.
This medication is used to treat multiple sclerosis (MS) but not a cure. It decreases the number of attacks of increased symptoms such as balance problems/numbness/weakness and slow the worsening of the disease.
How to use interferon beta-1a (albumin) subcutaneous
Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using interferon beta 1A and each time you get a refill. Your health care professional will teach you how to use this medication. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
If you are giving this medication to yourself at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. The solution is normally clear or pale yellow. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.
Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. It is important to change the location of the injection site with each dose to avoid developing problem areas under the skin. Do not inject into skin that is irritated or infected. Inject this medication under the skin in the thigh, abdomen, upper arm, or buttock, usually 3 times a week at least 48 hours apart, or as directed by your doctor.
To increase comfort, remove this medication from the refrigerator and let it warm to room temperature for about 30 minutes before injecting.
The dosage is based on your medical condition, laboratory tests, and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of side effects (e.g., flu-like symptoms), your doctor may direct you to start using a low dose and gradually increase your dose over 4 weeks. A starter pack with different doses of medication may be used when starting this medication. Use only the amount of medication your doctor directed you to use. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
Use this medication at the same time of the day on the same days of the week (e.g., Monday, Wednesday, Friday). To reduce side effects, give the injection in the evening before bedtime.
You may need to take other medications to reduce common side effects such as fever and pain (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen). Consult your doctor or pharmacist about how to use these medications safely with interferon.
Tell your doctor if your condition worsens.
Tell your doctor promptly if pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site persist or worsen.
Flu-like symptoms such as headache, nausea, fever, chills, tiredness, and muscle aches/pain may occur, especially when you first start this medication.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:
Get medical help right away if chest pain or seizures occur.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Consult your doctor regarding the precautions mentioned above.
Interactions
Some products that may interact with this drug include:
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others.
Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., liver function tests, complete blood count, thyroid tests) may be performed to monitor your progress and check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember, then skip the next day. Do not use this medication 2 days in a row. Resume your usual schedule the next week. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Storage
Store in the refrigerator between 36-46 degrees F (2-8 degrees C) away from light. Brief storage at or below 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) is permitted for up to 30 days. Do not expose to high temperatures and do not freeze. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Brands
Available Brands:
Rebif [ Merck ]
Also marketed as
Betaferon [ Bayer ]
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