Uses of undefined

This medication is utilized to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune condition impacting the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It works by reducing the frequency and intensity of relapses and slowing the progression of disability.

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Serious side effects of this medication include allergic reactions like swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, difficulty breathing, and rash. Depression, liver problems indicated by jaundice, itching, nausea, vomiting, and easy bruising are also serious concerns. Common side effects encompass flu-like symptoms, loss of appetite, weakness, difficulty sleeping, runny nose, diarrhea, numbness or tingling of the skin, increased sweating, muscle and joint pain, injection site pain, bruising, and redness. Changes in blood cell and liver function values can also occur.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

Inform your doctor about any prescribed medications, over-the-counter medicines, nutritional or vitamin supplements, and herbal products you take or have taken before the treatment. Certain medications may interact with interferon beta-1a and cause undesirable side effects, particularly those for epilepsy or depression. Interferon beta-1a could interact with or be influenced by other drugs, including those obtained without a prescription.

Inject at a different site each time to avoid the risk of skin and muscle irritation. Do not use it on a bruised, sore, infected, or wounded part of the skin. The injection should be kept at room temperature for half an hour before use. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry them. Keep sticking plasters and alcohol wipes handy in case you need them. Your doctor will tell you how long you must keep using Interferon beta-1a.

Precautions

Inform your doctor about any prescribed medications, over-the-counter medicines, nutritional or vitamin supplements, and herbal products you take or have taken before the treatment. Certain medications may interact with interferon beta-1a and cause undesirable side effects, particularly those for epilepsy or depression. Interferon beta-1a could interact with or be influenced by other drugs, including those obtained without a prescription.

Inject at a different site each time to avoid the risk of skin and muscle irritation. Do not use it on a bruised, sore, infected, or wounded part of the skin. The injection should be kept at room temperature for half an hour before use. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry them. Keep sticking plasters and alcohol wipes handy in case you need them. Your doctor will tell you how long you must keep using Interferon beta-1a.

Side Effects

It is not recommended to use Interferon beta-1a in children and adolescents due to limited data on its effectiveness and safety in this age group, especially in children below 10 years old. Inform your health care provider if you are allergic to interferon beta-1a or any of its ingredients, have severe depression, suicidal thoughts, uncontrolled epilepsy, serious kidney or liver problems, low white blood cell or platelet count, heart problems, or irritation at the injection site. Report any mood changes, suicidal thoughts, or worsening of existing conditions to your doctor. Transparent communication with your doctor about your medical history and medications is crucial for the safe use of Interferon beta-1a.

Word Of Advice

During Interferon beta-1a treatment, your doctor may initiate a low dose in the first week to manage potential flu-like symptoms. Subsequently, your doctor will recommend a gradual dose increase. It's crucial to adhere to your doctor's instructions, taking Interferon beta-1a consistently without skipping any doses, even if you start feeling better. If you accidentally take more than prescribed, consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately. If you miss a dose, inject it as soon as possible, wait a week before the next dose, and consult your doctor to adjust your schedule. Avoid doubling doses to compensate for a missed injection.

Your doctor will regularly monitor your liver, thyroid, and blood cell counts while you're on this medication. If you observe sudden mood changes or experience suicidal thoughts, promptly discuss them with your doctor for appropriate guidance and support.

Frequently Asked Question

• What should I do if I am undergoing blood tests while on Interferon beta-1a treatment?
• Interferon beta-1a may influence changes in the laboratory values of blood cells (RBC, WBC, Platelets) and liver functions. It's essential to inform the person conducting the tests that you are undergoing treatment with Interferon beta-1a to ensure accurate results.

• How should interferon beta-1a be stored?
• Interferon beta-1a should be refrigerated between 2 °C and 8 °C. Do not freeze. If a refrigerator is not available, it may be stored between 2 °C and 25 °C for up to 30 days and away from heat and light.

• Does Interferon beta-1a are indicated for children?
• No, Interferon beta-1a is not recommended for children and adolescents under 10 years because the safety of this medication is not established for them.

• Can Interferon beta-1a lead to kidney disease?
• Interferon beta-1a may cause blood clots in the small blood vessels, which could affect the kidney. This may happen several weeks to several years after starting Interferon beta-1a. The doctor may monitor your blood pressure, blood platelet count, and kidney functioning during the treatment.

• When is the best time to take interferon beta?
• The injections should be spaced at least 48 hours apart, so it is best to inject your medication around the same time of day on each of your injection days. The best time to inject this medication is in the late afternoon or evening.