How is interferon beta-1a administered?
Interferon beta-1a subcutaneous injection comes as a solution (liquid) in a prefilled syringe or a prefilled automatic injection device to inject subcutaneously (under the skin). It is usually injected three times a week.
What does IM interferon beta-1a do?
Interferon beta-1a is in a class of medications called immunomodulators. It works by decreasing inflammation and preventing nerve damage that may cause symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
How does interferon beta-1a help MS?
Beta interferons have been shown to slow down activity and disease progression in multiple sclerosis. They do this by helping regulate the immune system, reducing attacks on myelin or nerves.
How does interferon beta-1a decrease inflammation?
Interferon beta (IFN-β) induces the phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) proteins through the activation of its own receptor, modulating the secretion of cytokines and chemokines which regulate inflammation.
Is beta interferon an immunosuppressant?
Interferon proteins are normally considered virus-fighters, but scientists at The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI) have found evidence that one of them, interferon beta (IFNβ), has an immune-suppressing effect that can help some viruses establish persistent infections.
Is interferon beta 1a an immunosuppressant?
IFNbeta-1a injections induce systemic and intrathecal immunosuppressive cytokines. Myelin-specific T cells treated with IFNbeta-1a demonstrate increased immunosuppressive cytokine expression and reduced encephalitogenicity.
Is interferon beta-1a an immunosuppressant?
When is interferon beta-1a used?
Generic Name: interferon beta-1a This medication is used to treat multiple sclerosis (MS). Interferon is not a cure for MS, but it may help to slow disease worsening and decrease flare-ups of symptoms (such as balance problems, numbness, or weakness).
Do beta blockers help MS?
Carbamazepine (Tegretol), which is a seizure medicine, benzodiazepines such as diazepam (Valium) and clonazepam (Klonopin), and beta-blockers, especially propranolol (Inderal), may have some benefit in treating tremors caused by MS. Severe tremors are very hard to treat.
How much does interferon beta 1a cost?
Table 44Cost Table of RRMS Treatments
| Drug/Comparator | Strength | Unit Cost ($) |
|---|---|---|
| Interferon beta-1a (Avonex) | 30 mcg/0.5 mL | 393.9400 |
| Interferon beta-1a (Rebif) | 22 mcg (6 MIU) | 128.8433 |
| Interferon beta-1a (Rebif) | 44 mcg (12 MIU) | 156.8533 |
| Interferon beta-1b (Betaseron) | 0.3 mg | 110.0000 |
Does interferon beta-1a suppress the immune system?
This medicine does not suppress the immune system, and patients taking it do not have an increased risk of infection.