Rebif

Rebif

interferon beta-1a

Manufacturer:

Merck

Distributor:

Zuellig Pharma
Concise Prescribing Info
Contents
Recombinant human interferon β-1a
Indications/Uses
Single demyelinating event w/ active inflammatory process or relapsing multiple sclerosis characterized by ≥2 acute exacerbations in previous 2 yr.
Dosage/Direction for Use
When initiating, to allow tachyphylaxis & reduce adverse effects: 8.8 mcg (0.1 mL of 44 mcg or 0.2 mL of 22 mcg) 3 times wkly during 1st 2 wk, 22 mcg (0.25 mL of 44 mcg or 0.1 mL of 22 mcg) 3 times wkly in wk 3 & 4 then 44 mcg 3 times wkly from 5th wk onwards. 1st demyelinating event & relapsing multiple sclerosis 44 mcg SC 3 times wkly. Patient who cannot tolerate higher dose 22 mcg SC 3 times wkly.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to natural or recombinant interferon-β. Current severe depression &/or suicidal ideation.
Special Precautions
Not to be used in primary progressive multiple sclerosis. TTP or haemolytic uraemic syndrome; suicidal ideation, depression; history of seizures; angina, CHF or arrhythmia; inj site necrosis; nephrotic syndrome; severe myelosuppression; neutralising Ab. Regularly monitor liver enzyme, complete & differential blood cell & platelet counts. Perform thyroid function testing at baseline & every 6-12 mth after initiation. Severe renal & hepatic failure. May affect ability to drive & use machines. Pregnancy. Not to be used in childn <12 yr. Not to be given in premature babies or neonates. May cause toxic & anaphylactoid reactions in infants & childn up to 3 yr due to benzyl alcohol.
Adverse Reactions
Neutropenia, lymphopenia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, anaemia; increased asymptomatic transaminase; headache; inj site inflammation & reaction, flu-like symptoms. Severe transaminase elevations; depression, insomnia; diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea; pruritus, rash, erythematous & maculopapular rash, alopecia; myalgia, arthralgia; inj site pain, fatigue, rigors, fever.
Drug Interactions
Drugs w/ narrow therapeutic index & largely dependent on CYP450 clearance eg, antiepileptics, some antidepressants.
MIMS Class
Vaccines, Antisera & Immunologicals
ATC Classification
L03AB07 - interferon beta-1a ; Belongs to the class of interferons. Used as immunostimulants.
Presentation/Packing
Form
Rebif inj 22 mcg
Packing/Price
0.5 mL x 12 × 1's;1.5 mL x 4 × 1's
Form
Rebif inj 44 mcg
Packing/Price
0.5 mL x 12 × 1's;1.5 mL x 4 × 1's
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