Avonex (interferon beta-1a) is intended for people with multiple sclerosis. However, Avonex has not shown to alleviate the symptoms associated with chronic and/or progressive multiple sclerosis. Instead, Avonex is shown to help people who suffer from multiple sclerosis symptoms that come and go.
Interferon
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answeredAvonex (interferon beta-1a) is a prescription medication used to reduce the severity of multiple sclerosis (MS) relapses and to slow the progression of physical disability related to multiple sclerosis. It mimics certain naturally occurring proteins called interferons. For people who suffer relapses of MS, those taking the medication may notice a reduction in symptoms. However, the medication does not help those with chronic and progressive MS.
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answeredPeople with multiple sclerosis who are categorized as having chronic or progressive MS, meaning that symptoms are near constant and worsening, should not take Avonex. Additionally, there is some evidence that shows that people with a history of depression, seizures, heart problems or liver problems may experience worsening of those conditions while taking Avonex. Anyone with pre-existing allergies to any of the ingredients of Avonex should talk to their doctor before taking Avonex. Women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant should not take Avonex. Because some drugs can interact with Avonex, talk to your doctor if you should take Avnoex with any other medications.
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answeredYou should take Avonex exactly as directed by your doctor. Typically, this will be once a week by intramuscular injection. It is recommended that you have a partner to administer the injections as instructed by a doctor or nurse. Avonex comes as a liquid in a pre-filled syringe and as a powder in a vial. Pre-filled syringes need to be refrigerated, but should be at room temperature before administering the injection. Powdered Avonex needs to be reconstituted with sterile diluent, and should be used immediately after reconstitution.
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answeredAvonex (interferon beta-1a) will help reduce the severity of multiple sclerosis relapses and slow the progression of physical disability. As such, patients who are taking Avonex may not notice an improvement until their next multiple sclerosis relapse. Results from blood tests (e.g., neopterin, tryptophan and beta2-microglobulin) increase within 12 hours of dosing, remain elevated for at least 4 days and usually usually peak within 48 hours. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions about how Avonex is working for you.
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answeredIf you forget to take a dose of Avonex (interferon beta-1a), take your dose as soon as you remember it. However, do not take any two injections within two days of each other, and do not double up your doses to make up for the missed dose. Contact your doctor if you have any questions about your missed dose.
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answeredAvonex (interferon beta-1a) does not offer symptom relief to people with chronic and/or progressive multiple sclerosis. It is more effective for people who suffer relapsing multiple sclerosis. You shouldn't take Avonex if you allergic to the medicines used in Avonex, including interferons or albumin. People with a history of liver, heart or thyroid disease should talk to their doctors before starting Avonex, as should those with seizure disorders. In addition, Avonex has been known to cause depression and thoughts of suicide, so if you have a history of those behaviors, talk to your doctor. Pregnant or nursing women should make sure that the doctor who prescribes Avonex for them knows about the pregnancy and nursing.
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answeredThere is not a generic version of Avonex. It is the brand name for the generic medication interferon beta-1a. In 2009, the patent on Avonex was extended through 2026, when generic versions may become available. Be careful about purchasing so-called generic Avonex, as it is unlikely to be the correct medication.