Avonex (interfoeron beta 1-a)
AVONEX (interferon beta 1-a) – an interferon beta product commonly used to treat patients with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). The mechanism by which Avonex exerts its effects in the treatment of MS is unknown.
FDA approved uses: Avonex is indicated for the treatment of patients with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis to slow the accumulation of physical disability and decrease the frequency of clinical exacerbations. Patients with multiple sclerosis in whom efficacy has been demonstrated include patients who have experienced a first clinical episode and have MRI features consistent with multiple sclerosis.
Available dosage forms: Injection: 30 micrograms lyophilized powder in a single-use vial. Injection: 30 micrograms per 0.5 mL solution in single-use prefilled syringe. Injection: Single-use prefilled autoinjector containing 0.5 mL solution with 30 mcg.
Usual dosage: For intramuscular use only. Recommended dose: 30 micrograms once a week. AVONEX may be titrated, starting with 7.5 micrograms for first week, to reduce flu-like symptoms. Increase dose by 7.5 micrograms each week for next 3 weeks until recommended dose of 30 micrograms.
Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to natural or recombinant interferon beta, albumin or any other component of the formulation.
Special warnings: Depression, Suicide, and Psychotic Disorders – advise patients to immediately report any symptoms of depression, suicidal ideation, and/or psychosis; consider discontinuation of AVONEX if depression occurs. Hepatic Injury – monitor liver function tests; monitor patients for signs and symptoms of hepatic injury; consider discontinuation of AVONEX if hepatic injury occurs. Anaphylaxis and Other Allergic-Reactions – Discontinue if occurs. Congestive Heart Failure – monitor patients with pre-existing significant cardiac disease for worsening of cardiac symptoms. Decreased Peripheral Blood Counts – monitor complete blood count.
Adverse reactions (side effects) of these medications: The most common side effects of Avonex include flu-like symptoms including chills, fever, myalgia, and asthenia. Other adverse events reported include headache, abdominal pain. injection site reactions, infections, chest pain, toothache, depression, dizziness. upper respiratory infection bronchitis, nausea, arthralgia, urinary tract infections, alopecia, eye disorders, anemia, migraines and vasodilation.
Common drug interactions: No clinically significant drug interactions have been reported.
Special instructions for patients: Take this medication exactly as directed by physician. Read the full Patient Medication Guide prior to starting your first prescription, and with each refill. Obtain adequate instructions on self injection before attempting to administer to yourself.
Full prescribing information may be found at the manufacturer‘s official website Avonex.com or at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s website at Avonex Info at Drugs@FDA
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