Avonex Side Effects
From Pharmacy Drug Guide
Avonex (interferon beta-1a) is a once-weekly intramuscular injection that is prescribed to patients with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) to decrease the frequency of flare-ups and slow the accumulation of physical disabilities common among MS sufferers.[1] Avonex has also been shown to slow down brain shrinkage and the development of brain lesions.[2]
Potential Avonex side effects include flu-like symptoms such as chills, fatigue, fever, muscle aches, and sweating. These usually go away in about a say after injection. Thee are also more severe side effects of Avonex, such as behavioral changes, negative thoughts, jaundice, bleeding more easily, reduced appetite, agression and dark urine color.[1]
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| Brand name for | Interferon beta-1a injection |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Biogen Idec[3] |
| Uses | Decreases flare-ups in patients with multiple sclerosis |
| Common side effects | Flu-like symptoms |
| Who should not take Avonex? | Patients who are or may become pregnant |
| Disclaimer | The information provided by PharmacyDrugGuide.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not take any action based on the information on this page without consulting a physician. |
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Common Avonex Side Effects
In clinical studies, these side effects were reported at a rate of greater than three percent in patients taking Avonex compared to the control group. [4]
- Anemia
- Chills
- Depression
- Fever
- Headache
- Infection
- Injection site inflammation
- Joint pain
- Muscle pain
- Nausea
- Weakess, loss of energy
Interferons, including Avonex, have been known to cause severe depression and anxiety. Patients are advised to contact their doctor immediately if they begin having suicidal thoughts.[5]
About Drug Side Effects
Avonex Allergic Reactions
The use of Avonex is contraindicated for patients with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to natural or recombinant interferon beta. Avonex is supplied in two forms: as prefilled syringes and in powdered form (vials). Patients who are allergic to albumin (a derivative of human blood) may react to the powdered form of Avonex. The prefilled syringes do not contain albumin.[4]
Avonex Precautions and Warnings
- Avonex can cause anemia in some patients. The drug can also cause other blood disorders such as decreased levels of white blood cells (which fight infections) and platelets (which form blood clots).[5]
- Some patients taking Avonex have noticed changes in thyroid function. Symptoms have included feeling hot or cold all the time, changes in weight, and feeling emotional. [5]
- Avonex has been known to cause severe liver problems. When this occurred, patients typically noticed their eyes and skin becoming yellow (jaundice), and they bruised more easily than usual.[5]
- In clinical studies, four patients experienced seizures upon taking Avonex, while there were no incidences of seizures in the control group.[4]
- Patients with history of heart disease, including congestive heart failure, angina, and arrhythmia may experience a worsening of their condition. [4]
- Avonex is classified as FDA pregnancy category C. Animal reproduction studies using monkeys given 100 times the weekly human dose resulted in miscarriage of the fetus after 3 doses. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans. The manufacturer has developed a Pregnancy Registry to record and track the experiences of pregnant women who take Avonex. Enrollment information is on the drug website. [4]
- It is not known if Avonex can pass through breast milk in nursing mothers.[4]
Also See: Drug Side Effects, Betaseron Side Effects, Tysabri Side Effects, Gilenya Side Effects, Gilenya Free Samples, Gilenya, Rebif Side Effects, Prednisone and Pregnancy
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