rebif

Dosage form:

Rebif 22 micrograms solution for injection in a pre-filled syringe.

Rebif 44 micrograms solution for injection in a pre-filled syringe.

What is Rebif (Interferon beta-1a) used for?

This drug is indicated for the treatment of patients with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis. Interferon beta-1a has been shown to reduce the number and severity of relapses of multiple sclerosis.

Important notes before taking

Rebif (Interferon beta-1a):

• If you are allergic to this drug; any part of this drug; or any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you have.
• Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to ensure that it is safe to take this drug with all of your drugs and health problems.
• Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan on getting pregnant, or are breastfeeding. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks to you and the baby.

Important notes while taking Rebif (Interferon beta-1a):

• Tell all of your healthcare providers that you take this drug. This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
• Have blood work checked as you have been told by the doctor.
• Talk with your doctor before you drink alcohol.
• This drug is not a cure for MS (multiple sclerosis). Stay under the care of your doctor.
• A lot of times, reactions happen where the shot was given. Sometimes, very bad reactions may happen. Check with your doctor if you have any reaction that bothers you or does not go away. Call your doctor right away if you have any break in the skin, color changes (blue or black), swelling, or drainage of fluid where the shot was given.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan on getting pregnant, or are breastfeeding. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks to you and the baby.

Side effects of Rebif (Interferon beta-1a):

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

• Flu-like signs. These include headache, weakness, fever, shakes, aches, pains, and sweating. Mild pain drugs may help.
• Feeling dizzy, sleepy, tired, or weak.
•  Upset stomach.
•  Stomach pain.
•  Back, muscle, or joint pain.
•  Dry mouth.
• These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
• You may report side effects to your national health agency.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

• Take a missed dose as soon as you think about it and go back to your normal time.
• Do not take 2 doses within 48 hours of each other.
• If the next dose is less than 48 hours away, call your doctor to find out what to do.

How do I store and/or throw out this drug?

• Store in a refrigerator (2°C -8°C). Do not freeze.
• Keep the drug out of the reach of children and pets.
• Store in the original container to protect from light.
• Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to throw out drugs. Discard the used needle into the safety box.