Avonex

Avonex
Generic Name: interferon beta-1a (in ter FEAR on BAY ta)
Brand Names: Avonex
Company: Biogen IDEC
FDA Approved: December 1995
Avonex is rated 7.4/10

Avonex (interferon beta-1a) is made from human proteins. Interferons help the body fight viral infections.

Avonex is used to treat relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults.

Avonex will not cure MS, it will only decrease the frequency of relapse symptoms.

Avonex dosing information
Usual Adult Dose for Multiple Sclerosis:
30 mcg IM once a week:
Titration dose to reduce the incidence and severity of influenza-like symptoms:
Week 1: 7.5 mcg IM once a week
Week 2: 15 mcg IM once a week
Week 3: 22.5 mcg IM once a week
Week 4+: 30 mcg IM once a week

Use: 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

Important Information
Avonex can harm your liver. Call your doctor if you have symptoms such as nausea, loss of appetite, tiredness, confusion, easy bruising or bleeding, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or yellowing of your skin or eyes.

Some people have thoughts about suicide while using interferon beta-1a. Stay alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor.

Before using Avonex, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have liver disease, a thyroid disorder, epilepsy or other seizure disorder, heart disease, chest pain (angina), congestive heart failure, a heart rhythm disorder, or a history of depression or suicidal behavior.