Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

INTERFERON BETA 1-B - INJECTION

(in-ter-FEER-on BAY-tuh)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Betaseron

Uses

This medication is used to treat multiple sclerosis.

How To Use

This medication is injected under the skin. The drug may be self administered. Make sure you understand the technique and procedures for preparing the drug and for self-injection.

Side Effects

Diarrhea, constipation, drowsiness, sore throat, runny nose, cystitis (bladder irritation), breast or pelvic pain, menstrual pain, fatigue, headache, and weight gain may occur. Notify your doctor if any of these symptoms persist or worsen. Notify your doctor if a flu-like condition (with fever, chills, muscle aches, malaise or sweating) occurs. This condition has occurred in people using this medication and may last 10 days or more. Also, notify your doctor if inflammation, irritation, pain or a change in the appearance of the skin at the injection site occur. If any of the following effects occur, notify your doctor promptly: vaginal bleeding, spotting between menstrual cycles, mood changes, suicidal thoughts, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath. Notify your doctor promptly if you develop any signs of an infection such as: fever, chills, persistent sore throat. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Before using this drug tell your doctor your medical history including: any allergies (e.g., albumin protein allergy), depression/suicidal thoughts. This drug is not recommended for use during pregnancy due to the risk of serious side effects for a pregnant woman. Consult your doctor for more details. It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult with your doctor about stopping the drug or stopping breast-feeding. This drug increases sensitivity to the sun. Limit sun exposure.

Drug Interactions

Before you take this drug, tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription drugs you are taking, especially: antipyrine. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes

Lab tests will be done frequently while taking this medication to ensure it is working properly and to watch for potential side effects. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor who will help establish a new dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Certain generics of this medication may require either refrigeration or storage at room temperature. Consult your pharmacist or product packaging for specific storage requirements. Use solution within 3 hours after mixing. Discard unused portions.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).