Avonex

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Avonex Arzneimittelkompendium der Schweiz

Avonex Biogen-Dompé AG :: Produkte Avonex

Prescription Drug Information, Side Effects & Interactions for Avonex

Uses
This medication is used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). This drug may also be used for the treatment of certain cancers, immune system disorders or viral infections.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others.
This drug is not a cure for MS but has been shown to slow the advancement of the disease.
Laboratory tests will be done periodically while you are using this drug to monitor for side effects.

Storage

Store the vials of medication in the refrigerator between 36 and 46 degrees F (2-8 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
Use the solution as soon as possible after preparing it.
Discard any unused solution after six hours.

Avonex Avonex (interferon beta 1a) 30

How To Use

HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION: This medication is administered by injection into a muscle generally once a week.
Do not change the dose or use this more often than directed.
This medication may be self-administered.
Make sure you understand how to properly prepare the medication, give the injection and properly dispose of used syringes and needles.
Read the detailed instructions provided with the medication and ask your doctor or pharmacist about any questions regarding your treatment.

Side Effects

Headache, nausea, fever, flu-like symptoms, muscle aches, chills and irritation at the injection site may occur.
If these persist or worsen, notify your doctor.
Report promptly any chest pain or sleep problems.
Unlikely but report promptly any mood changes or depression, dizziness or fainting, skin rash, itching, swelling of the hands, feet or face, rapid or irregular heartbeat, breathing trouble or seizures.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history, including any allergies (especially drug allergies), any heart disease, seizure disorder or mental depression.
This drug may make you more sensitive to the sun.
Avoid prolonged sun exposure.
Wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen.
Limit alcohol, as it may aggravate the side effects of this medication.
If you become dizzy while using this drug, especially when arising from a seated or lying position, stand up slowly.
This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is not known whether this drug is excreted into breast milk.
Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended.
Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, contact your health care provider who will establish a new dose schedule.
Do not double the dose to catch up.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all nonprescription and prescription medication you may use.
Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.