Rebif (interferon beta 1-a)
REBIF (interferon beta-1a) – a interferon beta-1a product commonly used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis. The specific mechanism by which interferon beta-1a exerts its effects in the treatment of multiple sclerosis has not been fully elucidated.
FDA approved uses: Rebif is indicated for the treatment of patients with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis to decrease the frequency of clinical exacerbations and delay the accumulation of physical disability. Efficacy of Rebif® in chronic progressive multiple sclerosis has not been established.
Available dosage forms: Pre-filled Syringes – graduated, ready to use in 0.2 mL or 0.5 mL with 29-gauge 0.5 inch needle for subcutaneous injections. Rebif® Rebidose® Autoinjectors – pre-assembled, ready to use in 0.2 mL or 0.5 mL with 29gauge, 0.5 inch needle for subcutaneous injections.
Usual dosage: The recommended dose of Rebif is 22 mcg or 44 mcg injected subcutaneously three times per week.
Contraindications: Rebif (interferon beta-1a hydrochloride) is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to natural or recombinant interferon, human albumin, or any other component of the formulation.
Special warnings: Depression – Rebif (interferon beta-1a) should be used with caution in patients with depression, a condition that is common in people with multiple sclerosis. Depression, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts have been reported to occur with increased frequency in patients receiving interferon compounds. Hepatic injury – Severe liver injury, including some cases of hepatic failure requiring liver transplantation, has been reported rarely in patients taking Rebif. Symptoms of liver dysfunction began from one to six months following the initiation of Rebif. Anaphylaxis – anaphylactic reactions have been reported as a rare complication of Rebif use. Product contains human albumin thus a theoretical potential for transmission of viral diseases and Creutzfeltz-Jakob disease exists, though no cases have been reported.
Adverse reactions (side effects) of these medications: The most common side effects of Rebif include injection site disorders, influenza-like symptoms (headache, fatigue, fever, rigors, chest pain, back pain, myalgia), abdominal pain, depression, elevation of liver enzymes and hematologic abnormalities. Other adverse events reported include malaise, hypertonia, abnormal coordination, convulsions, thyroid disorder, skeletal pain, leukopenia, lymyphadenopathy, thrombocytopenia, anemia, micturition frequency, urinary incontinence, abnormal vision and dry eyes.
Common drug interactions: Due to its potential to cause neutropenia and lymphopenia, proper monitoring of patients is required if Rebif® is given in combination with myelosuppressive agents. Also, the potential for hepatic injury should be considered when Rebif® is used in combination with other products associated with hepatic injury.
Special instructions for patients: Use this medication exactly as directed by physician. Do not change the dosage or administration schedule except as directed by physician. Read the official medication guide prior to starting this medication.
Full prescribing information may be found at the manufacturer‘s official website Rebif.com or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s website at Rebif Info at Drugs@FDA
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