Betaferon (Interferon Beta-1B)
Betaferon (Interferon Beta-1B) Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Betaferon (Interferon Beta-1B) is a brand name. Its generic name is Interferon beta-1b.
Interferon Beta-1b Introduction
Interferon Beta-1b is a recombinant prescription medication approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is an autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system that affects 2.3 million people worldwide. Interferon Beta-1b is marketed under the name Betaseron.
Uses for Interferon Beta-1b
Interferon Beta-1b is used to reduce the frequency of MS attacks and to slow down the progression of disability associated with MS. It is also used in the treatment of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). Additionally, it may be used to reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer.
Mechanism of Action
Interferon Beta-1b is a type of cytokine, a naturally-occurring protein made in the body that functions as a messenger between cells. Interferon Beta-1b binds to receptors on cells of the immune system and helps to regulate the immune response. It helps to reduce inflammation and plays a role in the body’s fight against infections and cancer.
How Long Does it Take to Work?
The effect of Interferon Beta-1b on MS depends on the individual, it usually takes a few days to a few weeks for an individual to start feeling the effects.
Absorption
Interferon Beta-1b is practically insoluble in water but slightly soluble in 0.1M HCl. The absorption following subcutaneous injection is rapid, reaching maximum peak at approximately 2 hours after administration.
Route of Elimination
Interferon Beta-1b is excreted in urine and bile, with a small amount excreted in the feces.
Dosage
Interferon Beta-1b is typically administered subcutaneously (under the skin) as a single injection once every other day. The recommended dosage is 8 million IU (international units) in 0.5 mL (milliliter) every other day. Patients may start at a lower dose and then increase to 8 million IU.
Administration
Interferon Beta-1b should be injected under the skin. It is important to follow instructions closely. It should not be injected into a vein or muscle. The injection site should be changed with each injection to reduce local irritation.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Interferon Beta-1b include flu-like symptoms, injection site reaction, headache, muscle pain, nausea, abdominal pain, dizziness, and fatigue. Some rare side effects include serious allergic reactions, blood disorders, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
Toxicity
Interferon Beta-1b is generally well-tolerated and does not cause serious side effects. At high doses, it can cause liver toxicity and systemic inflammation.
Precautions
Interferon Beta-1b should not be used by those with severe allergies, autoimmune diseases, and certain viral infections. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take this medication. Interferon Beta-1b should also be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease.
Interactions
Interferon Beta-1b can interact with a variety of other medications, including antivirals, anticonvulsants, antimicrobials, and certain hormones. It may also interact with foods such as grapefruit, grapefruit juice, and alcohol. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.
Disease Interaction
Interferon Beta-1b can interact with diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and hepatitis C. It can also affect the immune system, making people more susceptible to infections.
Drug Interaction
Interferon Beta-1b can interact with a variety of other drugs, including antivirals, anticonvulsants, antimicrobials, and certain hormones. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.
Food Interaction
Grapefruit, grapefruit juice, and alcohol can interact with Interferon Beta-1b and can increase its concentration in the blood, leading to an increased risk of side effects. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider before consuming these products.
Pregnancy Use
Interferon Beta-1b is not recommended during pregnancy due to the risk of serious side effects and birth defects. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should speak with their healthcare provider before starting treatment.
Lactation Use
Interferon Beta-1b is not recommended in nursing mothers due to the potential for serious side effects in infants. Women who are breastfeeding should speak with their healthcare provider before starting treatment.
Acute Overdose
There have not been reports of acute overdose with Interferon Beta-1b. If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency department immediately.
Contraindication
Interferon Beta-1b should not be used in patients with autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, as it can worsen symptoms. It should also not be used in patients with severe allergies or certain viral infections.
Use Direction
Interferon Beta-1b should be administered according to the directions provided by a healthcare provider. Injections should be taken once every other day, usually taken before bedtime. It is important to rotate the injection sites to reduce local irritation.
Storage Condition
Interferon Beta-1b should be stored at room temperature, in the original packaging, away from light and moisture. Discard any unused medication after the expiration date.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution is 1.9L/kg.
Half Life
The half-life of Interferon Beta-1b is 8-10 hours.
Clearance
Interferon Beta-1b is cleared by the kidneys and liver. Its clearance is 0.2 L/h/kg.
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