Interferon beta

Description
A cytokine synthesized by fibroblasts and epithelial cells, characterized by immunomodulatory and antiviral activity.
Indications
For the treatment of ambulatory relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. See registered drugs.
Contraindications
Increased sensitivity to natural or recombinant beta interferon; epilepsy; severe depression; pregnancy.
Dosage
For adults. See registered drugs.
Special precautions: Use with caution in active liver disease, alcohol abuse, or ALT levels exceeding 2.5 times the normal limit.
Adverse reactions
Most common: fever, chills; joint and muscle pain, fatigue; nausea; headache; injection site reactions.
Others: injection site necrosis; diarrhea, anorexia, vomiting; elevated transaminases, jaundice, hepatitis (discontinue drug use); insomnia, anxiety; rash; depression (possible suicide); seizures; arrhythmias; leukopenia, lymphopenia, thrombocytopenia.
Pregnancy
Risk category – CM. No data on drug use during pregnancy. Pregnancy ended in abortion for four patients in drug trials. It is not known precisely whether interferon caused this effect.
Breastfeeding
No data. Do not breastfeed while taking the drug.
Warnings
Use reliable contraception. Serum neutralizing antibodies against beta interferon may develop. Administer with caution in patients with heart disease. Monitor blood periodically.

Source | Drug Guide | Lithuanian University of Health Sciences | Institute of Physiology and Pharmacology | Doctor of Medical Sciences Rimas Jankūnas, Doctor of Medical Sciences Arvydas Milašius | Clinic of Internal Diseases | Doctor of Medical Sciences Palmira Leišytė