Interferon, Beta-1a (Systemic)

Brand Names : Avonex, Rebif

Proper Use of This Medicine

If you are injecting this medicine yourself, use it exactly as directed by your doctor .

Special patient directions come with interferon beta-1a injection. Read the directions carefully before using the medicine. Make sure you understand:

• How to prepare the injection.
• Proper use of disposable syringes.
• How to give the injection.
• How long the injection is stable.

Dosing - If you are receiving interferon beta-1a at home, follow your doctors orders or the directions on the label . If you have any questions about the proper dose of interferon beta-1a, ask your doctor.

• For injection dosage form:
  • For multiple sclerosis (MS):
    • Adults
      • For Avonex
        • 30 micrograms (mcg) once a week, injected into a muscle.
      • For Rebif
        • 22 micrograms (mcg) 3 times a week, injected under the skin
    • Children - Use and dose must be determined by the physician.
  • For genital warts:
    • Adults
      • For Rebif
        • 3.67 micrograms (mcg) per lesion 3 times a week for 3 weeks

Missed dose - If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as remembered. The next injection should be scheduled at least 48 hours later.

Storage - To store this medicine:

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store away from direct light.
• Store prefilled syringes or vials of interferon beta-1a in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. If refrigeration is not available, the vials that have not been mixed with diluent may be kept for up to 30 days at room temperature, as long as the temperature does not go above 77 �F.
• Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.