Interferon Beta 1-b
What is Interferon Beta 1-b?
Interferon Beta 1-b is a medication employed in treating relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults (1) (2) (3) (4) (5). It's marketed under the brand monikers Betaseron, Betaferon, and Extavia (4). Interferon Beta 1-b belongs to the cytokine category within the interferon family. It modulates the expression balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory agents in the brain, and it curtails the influx of inflammatory cells that traverse the blood-brain barrier (3). The exact mechanism through which interferon beta-1b combats MS remains an enigma (2).
Dosage
The prescribed dose for Interferon Beta 1-b is contingent on the specific condition under treatment and the individual's body weight (1) (2) (3) (4) (5). The typical dose for addressing relapsing MS manifestations stands at 250 micrograms, administered every alternate day via subcutaneous injection (just beneath the skin) (2) (3) (4) (6). The therapy's span hinges on the diagnosed condition and is typically long-term (1) (2) (3) (4) (5).
Side Effects
Usage of Interferon Beta 1-b might lead to certain adverse effects. Among these, potential side effects arising from subcutaneous administration include flu-like symptoms, reactions at the injection site, asthenia, and an influenza-esque symptom complex (3) (6). These side effects are typically manageable, and their occurrence tends to diminish significantly after the initial treatment year (5).
Interactions
Interactions between Interferon Beta 1-b and certain medications exist. Therefore, it's prudent to seek expert medical advice before combining Interferon Beta 1-b with other drugs or supplements (3).
Summary:
Interferon Beta 1-b is a medication geared towards treating relapsing forms of MS in adults. It's available under the brand names Betaseron, Betaferon, and Extavia. This drug is an interferon family member, functioning to restore balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory agents in the brain while reducing inflammatory cells' movement across the blood-brain barrier. Typically, the drug is administered at a dose of 250 micrograms every other day via subcutaneous injection. While it can lead to side effects, most are manageable, especially after the first treatment year. It's essential to note the potential for drug interactions and to consult with medical professionals before simultaneous use with other drugs or supplements.
Citations:
(1) https://www.betaseron.com
(2) https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601151.html
(3) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interferon_beta-1b
(4) https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB00068
(5) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21128695/
(6) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15182221/