Monograph Details
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Immune System
> Immunomodulators
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REBIF |
| Manufacturer |
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EMD Serono, Inc. |
| Legal Classification |
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Rx
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| Generic Name |
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Interferon beta-1a 8.8micrograms/0.2mL, 22micrograms/0.5mL, 44micrograms/0.5mL; soln for SC inj; contains albumin (human); preservative free. |
| Indications |
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Relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), to decrease the frequency of clinical exacerbations and delay accumulation of physical disability. |
| Children |
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Not recommended. |
| Adults |
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Give by SC inj at least 48 hours apart, preferably in the PM. Rotate inj site. Initially 4.4micrograms 3 times per week for 2 weeks, titrate to target 22micrograms 3 times per week by week 5; or, initially 8.8micrograms 3 times per week for 2 weeks, titrate to target 44micrograms 3 times per week by week 5. See literature. May need dose reduction if SGPT >5xULN or leukopenia occurs. |
| Precautions |
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History of depression, suicidal ideation, seizure. Reevaluate if depression occurs. Thyroid or liver disease. SGPT >2.5xULN. Discontinue if jaundice or other signs of liver disease occur. Alcohol abuse. Monitor blood, thyroid, and liver function. Elderly. Pregnancy (Cat.C); may have abortifacient effects; consider discontinuing drug. Nursing mothers. |
| Interactions |
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Monitor myelosuppressants. Caution with other hepatotoxic drugs. |
| Adverse Reactions |
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Inj site reaction/necrosis, flu-like symptoms, abdominal pain, psychiatric disorders, elevated liver enzymes, blood dyscrasias, drowsiness, rash, micturition frequency, vision disorders. |
| How Supplied |
Prefilled syringe (22mcg)—12
Prefilled syringe (44mcg)—1, 3, 12
Prefilled syringe (6x8.8mcg + 6x22mcg)—1 |
| Additional Resources |
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• Related Prescribing Note |
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