Betaseron
Generic Name:
Interferon beta-1b
Brand Names:
Betaseron, Extavia
Betaseron Description:
Betaseron is an interferon beta medication used to treat the relapsing-remitting form of multiple sclerosis (MS). This medication is not a cure for MS, but may decrease the number of times an individual relapses as well as delay the progression of the disease when used at an early stage.
Betaseron Uses:
Betaseron is a treatment for the relapsing-remitting form of multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic disease in which the immune system attacks and destroys the protective sheath surrounding nerve fibers, called myelin. MS causes interference in the signals between the brain and the rest of the body and weakens the nerves, a painful and debilitating condition.
It is believed that Betaseron acts as an anti-inflammatory agent in MS patients. The drug enhances the cells that maintain equilibrium in the immune system, reduces inflammation of cells in the immune system, decreases the quantity of antibodies in the immune system, and inhibits the cells that fight bacteria.
Betaseron Interactions:
No drug interaction studies have been conducted with Betaseron. Consult your doctor about any medications, prescription, supplements, or herbs that you will be or may be taking in addition to Betaseron.
Betaseron Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendation:
Betaseron is available as a powder for an injectable solution. It is usually given as a 0.25 mg injection under the skin (subcutaneously), every other day. Initial doses begin at 0.0625 mg injected every other day, after which doses can gradually be increased over a six-week period to reach 0.25 mg.
A healthcare provider generally administers the injection, but you may be shown how to administer the injections yourself. When self-administering Betaseron, take note of the following information:
- Vials and syringes should never be reused.
- A new injection site (thigh, stomach, buttocks, or upper arm) should be used each time an injection is given to avoid skin reactions.
- Never give injections on sore, reddened, or infected skin.
- Always allow at least 48 hours between doses.
Missing a Dose:
If you miss a dose of Betaseron, inject it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and wait to resume your regular dosing schedule. Never administer injections on two consecutive days.
Overdosing:
There is no specific information available regarding overdose with Betaseron. If suspected overdose occurs, contact a doctor or seek emergency care immediately.
Betaseron FDA Approval:
July 23, 1993
Betaseron Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
There have been no recalls or Black Box warnings for Betaseron.
Sources:
- http://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?id=10248
- http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/drugsatfda/index.cfm?fuseaction=Search.DrugDetails
- http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/drug-information/DR600789/DSECTION=side-effects
- http://www.extavia.com/index.jsp?usertrack.filter_applied=true&NovaId=7852773835584811084
- http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/multiple-sclerosis/DS00188
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