Interferon Beta-1b Injection
Interferon beta-1b injection is used to reduce episodes of symptoms in patients with relapsing-remitting (course of disease where symptoms flare up from time to time) of multiple sclerosis (MS, a disease in which the nerves do not function properly and patients may experience weakness, numbness, loss of muscle coordination and problems with vision, speech, and bladder control). Interferon beta-1b is in a class of medications called immunomodulators. It is not known exactly how interferon beta-1b works to treat MS.
🔔 How should this medicine be used?
Interferon beta-1b injection comes as a powder to be mixed with liquid and injected subcutaneously (just under the skin). It is usually injected every other day. Inject interferon beta-1b injection at around the same time of day each time you inject it. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use interferon beta-1b injection exactly as directed. Do not inject more or less of it or inject it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of interferon beta-1b injection and gradually increase your dose.
You will receive your first dose of interferon beta-1b in your doctor’s office. After that, you can inject interferon beta-1b yourself or have a friend or relative perform the injections. Before you use interferon beta-1b yourself the first time, read the written instructions that come with it. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to show you or the person who will be injecting the medication how to inject it.
Never reuse or share syringes, needles, or vials of medication. Throw away used needles and syringes in a puncture-resistant container and throw away used vials of medication in the trash. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how to dispose of the puncture-resistant container.
You should only mix one vial of interferon beta-1b at a time. It is best to mix the medication right before you plan to inject it. However, you may mix the medication in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and use it within 3 hours.
You can inject interferon beta-1b anywhere on your abdomen, buttocks, the back of your upper arms, or your thighs, except the area near your navel (belly button) and waistline. If you are very thin, only inject in your thigh or the outer surface of your arm. Refer to the diagram in the manufacturer’s patient information for the exact places you can inject. Choose a different spot each time you inject your medication. Do not inject your medication into skin that is irritated, bruised, reddened, infected, or scarred.
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Your doctor or pharmacist will give you the manufacturer’s patient information sheet (Medication Guide) when you begin treatment with interferon beta-1b and each time you refill your prescription. Read the information carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
