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Avonex
Kit
Chemical Name: INTERFERON BETA 1a (in-ter-FEER-on BAY-tah)
Common uses
This medicine is an interferon used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS).
Before using
INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions including psychiatric disorders such as depression, liver problems, heart disease, seizure disorders, thyroid problems, allergies including latex allergy, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. USE OF THIS MEDICINE IS NOT RECOMMENDED if you have an allergy to interferons. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medicine.
Directions
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. THIS MEDICINE COMES with a Medication Guide. Read it carefully. Ask your doctor or nurse any questions that you may have before using this medicine. IF YOU ARE USING THIS MEDICINE AT HOME, a healthcare professional will provide detailed instructions for its appropriate use. Ask them any questions you may have about your medicine or giving injections. Remove this medicine from the refrigerator approximately 30 minutes before giving the injection to allow the medicine to come to room temperature. DO NOT USE hot water or other heat sources to warm the medicine faster. If the medicine contains particles or if the vial is cracked or damaged in any way, do not use it. STORE THIS MEDICINE in the refrigerator between 36 and 46 degrees F (2 and 8 degrees C). Do not freeze. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, use it as soon as possible, then go back to your regular dosing schedule. Your next injection should be scheduled at least 48 hours later. Do not use 2 doses at once.
Cautions
KEEP ALL DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS while you are taking this medicine. Laboratory and/or medical tests such as complete blood counts, liver function tests, or thyroid tests may be done to monitor your progress or to check for side effects. Contact your doctor for more information about these tests. The cap of the pre-filled syringe contains latex. If you have had an allergic reaction to latex contact your doctor before using this medicine. SOME PATIENTS USING INTERFERON PRODUCTS MAY BECOME depressed or have thoughts of hurting themselves. If you feel depressed or have these thoughts, contact your doctor immediately. THIS MEDICINE COMMONLY CAUSES flu-like symptoms. Using this medicine at night may lessen these symptoms. Taking a pain or fever-reducing medicine such as acetaminophen may help with these symptoms. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. THIS MEDICINE MAY CAUSE HARM to the human fetus. IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED in breast milk. DO NOT BREAST-FEED while taking this medicine.
Possible side effects
SIDE EFFECTS that may occur while taking this medicine include flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, nausea, diarrhea, muscle ache, dizziness, or weakness. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience chest pain, swelling of the ankles or feet, sudden weight gain, mental or mood changes including depression, seizures, signs of infection, easy bruising or bleeding, dark urine, yellowing eyes or skin, extreme fatigue or weakness, cold or heat intolerance, or gradual change in weight (without a change in diet or exercise). An allergic reaction to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
If you take too much
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Additional information
DO NOT SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS PRODUCT, as well as syringes and needles, out of the reach of children. Do not reuse needles, syringes, or other materials. Dispose of properly after use. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to explain local regulations for selecting an appropriate container and properly disposing of the container when it is full. IF USING THIS MEDICINE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, obtain refills before your supply runs out.
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