AVONEX 30MCG INJECTION

Introduction:

Avonex 30mcg Injection consists of the active ingredient Interferon-beta-1A. It is indicated to treat multiple sclerosis in adults. Usually, human cells produce interferons naturally in response to bacteria and viruses, and they inhibit viruses and regulate the immune system. Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic neurological condition where symptoms of pain, tiredness, speech problems, visual disturbance worsen with relapses. 

Uses of Avonex 30mcg Injection:

• Treatment of adult patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.

How Avonex 30mcg Injection Works:

In Multiple Sclerosis, the body’s immune system starts attacking its myelin, disrupting the messages between the brain and the other organs. Avonex 30mcg Injection works by stopping the immune system from attacking the myelin. It binds to the specific receptors on the surface of endothelial cells of the blood-brain barrier to prevent the relapse of multiple sclerosis symptoms.

Interaction with other drugs:

Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking or have taken before the treatment.

More Information:

• Keep this Injection away from sight and reach of children. 
• Store in the original package to protect from light. 
• Do not use the product if the solution is not clear or if it contains particles. 
• Store in a refrigerator (2-8°C). Do not freeze.

References:

1. Biogen, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on Feb 2021] [Accessed on 3rd Apr 2021], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.886.pdf
2. Aryan Rafiee Zadeh, et al., Mechanism and adverse effects of multiple sclerosis drugs: a review article. Part 1, Int J Physiol Pathophysiol Pharmacol 2019;11(4):95-104, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6737429/pdf/ijppp0011-0095.pdf

How to use Avonex 30mcg Injection: 

• Use Avonex 30mcg Injection only under your physician’s supervision. 
• Inject at a different site each time to avoid the risk of skin and muscle irritation. 
• Do not use it on a bruised, sore, infected or wounded part of the skin.
• The injection should be kept at a room temperature for half an hour before use.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry them.
• Keep sticking plasters and alcohol wipes handy in case you need them.

Safety Advice:

Pregnancy:

Consult your physician for advice before taking Avonex 30mcg Injection if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding: 

Avonex 30mcg Injection is safe to use during breastfeeding.

Liver: 

Consult your physician for monitoring your liver functions at regular intervals if you have liver disorders.

Kidney:

Consult your physician for advice for monitoring your kidney functions, BP and Blood platelet levels at regular intervals if you have kidney disorders. 

Driving:

Avonex 30mcg Injection might have an influence on driving. Consult your physician for advice.

Others:

• Inform your physician if you have experienced depression, seizures or if you have been diagnosed with disease in the bone marrow, heart or thyroid.
• Report to your physician if you are facing allergic reactions or hypersensitivity reactions to any other medicines.

Side effects are unwanted symptoms caused by medicines. Even though all drugs cause side effects, not everyone gets them.

Serious:

• Allergic and hypersensitivity reactions characterized by swelling of face, lips, throat, tongue; itching, weakness
• Jaundice, loss of appetite, difficulty concentrating, sleepiness and confusion
• Depression

Common:

• Fever, headache, chills, muscle and joint pain
• Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
• Skin reactions at the injected area
• Changes in the laboratory values of blood cells (RBC, WBC, Platelets) and liver functions.
• Sleeplessness
• Hair loss