INTERFERON BETA-1B

Indications & Dose:

Patients with a single demyelinating event with an active inflammatory process severe enough to require IV corticosteroids if alternative diagnoses have been excluded and they are at high risk of developing multiple sclerosis. Relapsing-re-mitting multiple sclerosis in patients who have had at least 2 attacks in the preceding 2 years. Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis with active disease evidenced by relapses. Adults l
BY INJECTION Initially 62.5 mcg by SC inj on alternate days increasing slowly over a period of 19 days to 250 microgram on alternate days. Discontinue if no response (e.g. steady progression of disability lor 6 months or treatment with at least 3 courses of ACTH or corti-costeroids in 1 year). Reassess after 2 years. Children: Under 12 years, not recommended. 

Contraindications:

History of severe depression or suicidal tendencies, decompensated liver disease, uncontrolled epilepsy. Pregnancy (ensure adequate contraception), lactation.

Side Effects:

Cautions:

Precautions:

Treatment must be initiated under the supervison of a clinician experienced in the disease. History of seizures or depression, cardiac disorders, monoclonal gammopathy, myelosuppression, anaemia, thrombocytopenia, renal impairment (monitor renal function). Monitor patient for symptoms of depression, suicidal ideation, hypersensitivity reactions, fever and infection associated with neutropenia; consider withdrawal if occur. Monitor haematology and liver enzymes prior to and regularly during therapy; consider withdrawal with significant changes. Thyroid dysfunction; monitor thyroid function regularly. 

Interaction:

Drugs metabolised by liver enzymes, other immunomodulators (except corticosteroids and ACTH), drugs affecting haematopoietic system. 

Warnings:

Adverse Effects:

Inj site reactions, flu-like symptoms, necrosis, leucopenia, anaemia, thrombocytopenia, altered blood chemistry, depression, hypertonia, hypertension, Gl upset, alopecia, urticaria, pruritus, rash, myalgia. Rarely, lymphade-nopathy, thyroid dyslunction, convulsions, confusion, anxiety, emotional lability, cardiomyopathy (discontinue), tachycardia, palpitations, bronchos-pasm, dyspnoea, pancreatitis, hepatitis, skin discolouration, sweats, menstrual disorders, suicide attempts, anaphylaxis, malaise, chest pain, weight loss. 

Lactations:

C (Risk cannot be ruled out).v (Contraindicated or not recommended). 

Special Precautions:

Counselling:

Side Effects Or Adverse Reactions:

Patient And Carer Advice: