Interferon

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• QHow much Betaseron should I take?

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  A Multiple Sclerosis Foundation answered

  You may be started on a lower dose when you first start taking Betaseron. Your doctor will tell you what dose of Betaseron to use, and that dose may change based on how your body responds. You should not change your dose without talking with your doctor. If you miss a dose, you should take your next dose as soon as you remember or are able to take it. Your next injection should be taken about 48 hours (two days) after that dose. Do not take Betaseron on two consecutive days. If you accidentally take more than your prescribed dose, or take it on two consecutive days, call your doctor right away. You should always follow your doctors instructions and advice about how to take this medication.
• QWhat should I avoid while taking Betaseron (interferon beta-1b)?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  Avoid pregnancy while taking Betaseron (interferon beta-1b), as the drug may have harmful effects to an unborn baby. You should also avoid infections and complications by using injection kits and medications properly and disposing of needles and syringes appropriately. Do not take more than one dose within 48 hours.
  
  

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• QIs Betaseron (interferon beta-1b) dangerous if taken by mouth?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  I have never seen any information on taking Betaseron orally, but there have been very small studies on oral interferon beta-1a use. While it appears to be safe, it was not effective for MS when taken orally. Betaseron (interferon beta-1b) is intended only for injection under the skin every other day.
   
• QIs Betaseron (interferon beta-1b) safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  As with any drug, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or nursing before beginning treatment. Betaseron (interferon beta-1b) may cause a miscarriage. So if you are taking Betaseron, be sure to use a reliable form of birth control. If you become pregnant while taking Betaseron, stop treatment and consult your doctor immediately. Effects of Betaseron on a nursing infant are unknown, so women should not plan on breast-feeding while taking Betaseron.
   
• QHow soon after taking Betaseron will my symptoms improve?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  Betaseron does not cure multiple sclerosis, but will decrease the number of clinical episodes or attacks you have with relapsing multiple sclerosis. Because relapsing episodes occur at various intervals and are different for each person, it is hard to predict how soon you might notice improvement. Your doctor might also recommend that you begin with a lower dose of medication and slowly increase your dosage over a period of weeks. This slow progression might affect how quickly you notice improvement.