Key facts about Peginterferon Beta-1a
What dosages is Peginterferon Beta-1a available in?
Peginterferon Beta-1a is available as a 63 mcg/0.5 mL, 94 mcg/0.5 mL, 125 mcg/0.5 mL single-dose prefilled pen or single-dose prefilled syringe.
What is Peginterferon Beta-1a used for?
Peginterferon Beta-1a is an interferon beta used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults.
How does Peginterferon Beta-1a work?
Peginterferon Beta-1a is an interferon beta. The exact way Peginterferon Beta-1a treats MS isn’t well-understood. But it’s thought to work by calming down the immune system so that it’s less likely to attack the nervous system.
How do I take Peginterferon Beta-1a?
The typical starting dose is 63 mcg injected on Day 1, then 94 mcg on Day 15. Starting Day 29, the typical dose is to inject 125 mcg every 2 weeks thereafter.
Is it safe for me to take Peginterferon Beta-1a?
Peginterferon Beta-1a is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not use this medication in the following:
- History of hypersensitivity to natural or recombinant interferon beta or peginterferon, or any other component in the product
Peginterferon Beta-1a Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Peginterferon Beta-1a:
- Injection-site redness
- Flu-like symptoms
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Chills
- Injection-site reactions
- Weakness
- Joint pain
Peginterferon Beta-1a Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Peginterferon Beta-1a. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Depression and thoughts of self-harm
- Seizures
- Serious allergic reactions: hives, itching, swelling of face or tongue, difficulty breathing
- Liver damage: swelling of your stomach, yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes, confusion
- Heart failure: shortness of breath, swelling in legs, ankles, or feet, coughing, fatigue, weakness
- High blood pressure in the lungs: shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling, chest pain, lips and fingers turning blue
- Low blood cell counts: fever, pale skin, fast heart rate, lightheadedness, easy bleeding or bruising
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Peginterferon Beta-1a
There are no major drug interactions listed for this medication. However, always let your physician and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking.
Who makes Peginterferon Beta-1a?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Peginterferon Beta-1a safe in pregnancy?
It is not known whether this medication is safe for you and your unborn baby during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have plans on becoming pregnant. They will recommend what is best for you.
