Interferon beta -1a is a drug to treat multiple sclerosis. Interferon beta-1a is a synthetic form of the substance interferon, which is a natural substance produced in the body to fight infection.
Interferon beta-1a belongs to a class of immunomodulatory drugs. These drugs work by reducing inflammation and preventing nerve damage from multiple sclerosis .
This drug cannot cure multiple sclerosis, but it can slow the progression of the condition and reduce the frequency of symptoms, such as balance problems, tiredness, weakness, or numbness.
Trademark for interferon beta-1a: Rebif 22
What is Interferon Beta-1a
|
class |
Prescription drug |
|
Category |
Immunomodulator |
|
Benefit |
Overcoming multiple sclerosis. |
|
Used by |
Mature |
|
Interferon beta-1a for pregnant and lactating women |
Category C: Animal studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus, but there have been no controlled studies in pregnant women. Drugs should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus It is not yet known whether interferon beta-1a can be absorbed into breast milk or not. Do not use this drug without doctor's advice. |
|
Drug form |
Inject |
Precautions Before Using Interferon Beta-1a
Interferon beta-1a will be given directly by a doctor or medical officer under the supervision of a doctor. Before using this drug, you need to pay attention to the following points:
- Tell your doctor about any history of allergies you have. Interferon beta-1a should not be given to patients who are allergic to this drug.
- Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had angina , anemia, autoimmune disease , blood clotting disorder, low white blood cells, congestive heart failure, liver disease, epilepsy , thyroid disease, arrhythmia , kidney disease, infectious disease , or mental disorder, such as depression .
- Tell your doctor if you have a habit of drinking alcohol or suffer from an addiction to alcohol .
- Do not vaccinate or immunize without a doctor's approval while using interferon beta-1a, and avoid contact with people who are suffering from infectious diseases that are easily transmitted, such as the flu or measles.
- Tell your doctor that you are using interferon beta-1a if you are having surgery, including dental surgery.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements or herbal products.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
- Take control according to the schedule given by the doctor while undergoing treatment with interferon beta-1a, so that your condition can be monitored.
- See your doctor immediately if you have an allergic drug reaction, serious side effects, or overdose after using interferon beta-1a.
Dosage and Rules for Use Interferon Beta-1a
Interferon beta-1a will be given by injection under the skin (subcutaneously) by a doctor or medical officer under the supervision of a doctor. The dosage will be adjusted according to the patient's condition and the patient's tolerance for interferon beta-1a.
In general, for adults, the starting dose of interferon beta-1a is 8.8 mcg, 3 times a week for 2 weeks. After that the dose can be increased to 22 mcg 3 times a week for 2 weeks and to 44 mcg 3 times a week.
How to Use Interferon Beta-1a Properly
Interferon beta-1a will be given directly by a doctor or medical officer under the supervision of a doctor. The medicine will be injected under the skin (subcutaneously) as directed by the doctor.
Follow the injection schedule given by the doctor for effective treatment. During treatment, you will need to have regular medical tests to check your body's response to the drug.
Interferon Beta-1a Interactions with Other Drugs
The following are drug interaction effects that can occur if interferon beta-1a is used together with other medicines:
- Increased risk of side effects especially granulocytopenia when used with ACE inhibitors
- Increased risk of liver damage and seizures when used with bupropion
- Increased risk of liver damage when used with leflunomine, lomitapide or mipomersen
- Increased levels of theophylline in the blood
- Enhanced anticoagulant effect of warfarin
- Increased risk of bone marrow suppression , namely decreased bone marrow function resulting in reduced blood cell production, when used with zidovudine or hydroxyurea
Side Effects and Dangers of Interferon Beta-1a
Some of the side effects that can occur after using interferon beta-1a are:
- Pain, redness, swelling, or irritation at the injection site
- Dry eyes or mouth
- Headache, muscle aches, or fever
- Abdominal pain or diarrhea
- Discomfort in the stomach
Consult your doctor if the side effects above do not subside immediately or get worse. You need to see a doctor immediately if you experience an allergic drug reaction or more serious side effects, such as:
- Symptoms of infection, such as fever, sore throat , or cough
- Unusual tiredness, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or jaundice
- Infrequent urination or bloody urine
- Depression or thoughts of suicide
- Seizures or fainting
- Chest pain or fast heart rate
- Easy bruising or bloody bowel movements