Rebif Side Effects

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Rebif (interferon beta-1a) is a medication that is prescribed to patients with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) to slow the progression of disability, reduce relapse rates, and reduce brain lesions. It does not treat chronic progressive MS. Rebif's active ingredient, Interferon, is a protein that naturally occurs in the body. This type of protein helps to manage the immune system.[1] Available in pre-filled syringes and in an auto-injector called the Rebiject II, patients take Rebif via subcutaneous injection three times per week, waiting at least 48 hours between injections.[2]

Potential Rebif side effects include flu-like symptoms such as sweating, muscle aches, fever, fatigue, and chills. Other likely adverse reactions include reduced blood cell count and depression.[1]



Wikicommons: Carswell
Brand name for Interferon beta-1a
Manufacturer EMD Serono, Inc. and Pfizer[3]
Uses Slows the progression of MS symptoms
Common side effects Flu-like symptoms, stomach pain, depression, injection-site reactions[3]
Who should not take Rebif? Pregnant females, or those who are planning to conceive
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.
 

Contents

Common Rebif Side Effects

The most widely-experienced side effects of Rebif are flu symptoms, pain in the abdominal region, depression, skin reactions at the injection site, an increase in liver enzymes, and lowered blood cell count.[3]

In a placebo-controlled study conducted over the course of two years, these specific side effects were reported at a rate of greater than three percent in patients taking Rebif compared to the control group:[4]

  • Abdominal pain
  • Abnormal liver function
  • Anemia
  • Chills
  • Dry mouth
  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Flu-like symptoms
  • Headache
  • Injection site reaction
  • Joint pain
  • Malaise
  • Muscle pain
  • Nausea
  • Rash, redness of the skin
  • Vision problems
  • Weakess, loss of energy


About Drug Side Effects

A look at common side effects that occur with drugs like Rebif

Rebif Allergic Reactions

The use of Rebif is contraindicated for patients with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to natural or recombinant interferon beta or to albumin (human).

Allergic reactions to Rebif might include hives, rash, skin bumps or itching. Serious allergic reactions, which may require medical attention include difficulty breathing or feeling light-headed.[2]

Patients who are allergic to latex, rubber or albumin may experience reactions to the injection apparatus used to administer Rebif.[5]

Rebif Precautions and Warnings

  • Rebif may not be right for patients with history of alcohol abuse, or those who have consumed large quantities of alcohol.[5]
  • Rebif can interact with a number of drugs, vitamins and supplements. Some common products that interfere with Rebif include aspirin, iron supplements, and niacin.
  • Interferons such as Rebif have been known to cause suicidal ideation. In postmarketing studies there have been reports of suicide in patients treated with Rebif. Patients are advised to tell a family member and contact their doctor immediately if they begin feeling depressed or have suicidal thoughts.[4]
  • Rebif can cause blood disorders in some patients. These disorders include leukopenia (low white blood cells), anemia (low red blood cells), and thrombocytopenia (low platelets).[4]
  • Some patients taking Rebif have experienced thyroid disorders. Symptoms that might indicate a thyroid problem include feeling persistently sensitive to temperature, changes in weight, and feeling emotional.[4]
  • Rebif has been known to cause severe liver problems. Jaundice (a yellowing of the eyes and skin) and bruising easily are signs that a patient may be experiencing liver problems.[4]
  • Rebif is classified as FDA pregnancy category C. During clinical trials of Rebif, there were seven women who became pregnant, two of whom had spontaneous abortions. In postmarketing studies, there were 32 pregnancies reported of women taking Rebif, of whom two had spontaneous abortions and one had a stillbirth.[4] While there have been no specific studies of pregnant women using Rebif, the manufacturer warns that this medication is not for pregnant women, or for those who are planning to have a child.[3]
  • It is not known if Rebif can pass through breast milk in nursing mothers.[4]

Also See: Drug Side Effects, Avonex Side Effects, Gilenya Side Efects, Tysabri Side Effects, Betaseron Side Effects

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 http://www.rebif.com/pages/about-rebif/proven_effective
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 http://www.emdserono.com/cmg.emdserono_us/en/images/rebif_med_guide_tcm115_19766.pdf
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 http://www.rebif.com/pages/home
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 http://www.emdserono.com/cmg.emdserono_us/en/images/rebif_tcm115_19765.pdf
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a693040.html
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