Description

Overview of Rebif

Interferon beta-1a is an active agent present in the medication named Rebif and it belongs to a family of medications known as immunomodulators. Rebif is available in the form of injection with a strength of 22mcg/0.5mL or 44mcg/0.5mL and it is prescribed for the treatment of Multiple sclerosis. This injectable suspension works by reducing the inflammation and slows down the attack of the body’s defense cells on the nerves. Multiple sclerosis is a disease caused by the body’s defense system by destroying the protective covering (myelin) surrounding nerve fibers. Rebif is a pre-filled syringe medication and it should not be administered on your own. 

Interferon-beta increases the expression of MHC I proteins, allowing for more peptides produced from viral antigens to be presented. This increases the activation of CD8+ T cells, which are progenitors to cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), and makes the macrophage a more attractive target for CTL-mediated death.

Interactions

Interactions can occur if you use some other medicinal products while receiving treatment with a Rebif (Interferon beta-1a) injection. Do not use such products with Rebif injection in order to avoid the occurrence of unfortunate events.

Medicine interactions:– bupropion, lomitapide, teriflunomide, zidovudine, pexidartinib, mipomersen, iopamidol, etc. are the drugs that may decrease the metabolism and also decreases the therapeutic efficacy of Interferon beta-1a. Avoid the use of Rebif (Interferon-beta-1a) injection with any of the drugs that may interact.

Disease interactions:– cardiac disease, hepatic disease, CNS dysfunction, and depression are some of the diseases that may interact with the drug Rebif (Interferon beta-1a), in order to avoid these severe disease interactions extreme caution is recommended for patients.

Food interactions:– Avoid the use of products that can interact with Rebif (Interferon beta-1a) injection because it can cause severe allergic reactions and it includes side effects like – headache, painful urination, mouth ulcers, diarrhea, constipation, anemia, vomiting, loss of appetite, dehydration, sore throat, etc.

Alcohol interactions:– consuming alcohol while receiving treatment with Rebif (Interferon-beta-1a) injection may increase the risk of lightheadedness, and blurred vision in some patients. It is better to avoid the consumption of alcohol and consult with your health professional or physician before consuming it.

Q1- What is Rebif (Interferon beta-1a) used for?

A- Rebif injection, comprising Interferon beta-1a, is a prescription medicine used in the treatment of relapsing forms of Multiple Sclerosis in adults (aged over18). It is not known if Rebif injection is safe and effective for use in children.

Q2- How should I take this medicine?

A- Your healthcare provider will give you Rebif (Interferon beta-1a) injection. It is advised not to self administer.

Q3- How does Rebif (Interferon beta-1a) work?

A- Rebif (Interferon beta-1a) injection lowers the chances of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in adults by reducing the inflammation that affects the functioning of the immune system, preventing further nerve damage.

Q4- In what composition is it available?

A- The active ingredient of Rebif is Interferon beta-1a. This medicine is available in the form of an injection (pre-filled syringe) in the strength of 22mcg/0.5mL or 44mcg/0.5mL.

Q5- What are the possible side effects of Rebif (Interferon beta-1a)?

A- Some of the possible side effects of Rebif (Interferon beta-1a) injection are headache, flu-like symptoms, sweating, chills, fever, skin rash, itching, etc. Note that there may be other side effects also. Also, be sure to contact a medical practitioner immediately if the side effects occur or last longer than usual.

Q6- How should Rebif (Interferon beta-1a) be stored?

A- Store in a refrigerator (2 – 8°C). Do not freeze. Keep this medicine away from the reach of children and pets.

Q7- Can I take Rebif (Interferon beta-1a) during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

A- During pregnancy or breastfeeding, take Rebif (Interferon beta-1a) injection only after discussing the risks and benefits with the medical practitioner. Do not try to self administer.

Q8- What should I avoid during the consumption of Rebif (Interferon beta-1a)?

A- Avoid the consumption of alcohol while taking Rebif (Interferon beta-1a) injection. 

Q9- What are the warnings and necessary precautions?

A- Rebif (Interferon beta-1a) injection should be administered with caution in patients who:

• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed
• Who already have depression disorders
• Who have cardiac disease and thyroid disorders

Q10- Is it safe to drive or operate machines after taking Rebif (Interferon beta-1a) injection?

A- Rebif (Interferon beta-1a) injection may cause side effects such as dizziness and decreased level of concentration. If you feel unwell after taking this medicine, make sure to avoid driving and operating heavy machinery.