Interferon Beta

Drug #1469

Interferons are potent cytokines that possess antiviral, immunomodulating and antiproliferative actions. The interferones bind to specific cell-surface receptors that initiate a series of intracellular events, induction of certain enzymes, inhibition of cell-proliferation, and enhancement of immune activities. It (IFNB) is a type of interferon produced by fibroblasts and epithelial cells. The term "it" used here encompasses products that are further differentiated as either it-1a or it-1b. it-I a, a 166-amino acid recombinant glycoprotein, and it-I b, a 165-amino acid recombinant protein, used in the treatment of multiple sclerosisto reduce the frequency of clinical exacerbations.

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Primary Characteristics

It is of Natural origin and belongs to cytokines.

Molecular Weight: 20025.38 · pK_a: 7.2-7.8 · Solubility in Water: soluble · Non-proprietary name: Interferon Beta.

Pharmacokinetics

Distribution: Interferon Beta has a volume of distribution is 3 l/kg.

Elimination: plasma half-life is 10hr beta 1a.

Indications

Interferon Beta is primarily indicated in conditions like Condyloma acuminata, Hairy cell leukaemia, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Herpes simplex infections, Multiple sclerosis.

Contraindications

Interferon Beta is contraindicated in conditions like Depression, Lactation.

Dosage

Interferon Beta's dosage details are as follows:

Dose	Single Dose	Frequency	Route	Instructions
Adult Dosage
0.25 mg	0.25 mg	—	SC	Should be injected every other day. Generally, patients should be started at 0.0625 mg (0.25 mL) subcutaneously every other day, and increased over a six week period to 0.25 mg (1.0 mL) every other day
Paediatric Dosage (20kg)
No data.
Neonatal Dosage (3kg)
No data.

Drug Interactions

Unknown1 interaction

Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.

Side Effects

Interferon Beta in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Sinus tachycardia , Neutropenia , Hypothyroidism , Depression , Pancytopenia , Hyperthyroidism .

The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Interferon Beta are Anemia, Depression , Neutropenia , Hyperthyroidism.

Interferon Beta is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Alopecia, Anemia, Anorexia , Arthralgia, Confusion, Fever, Leukopenia, Lymphopenia, Malaise, Muscle aching, Skin reactions, Skin redness, Swelling .

Warnings / Precautions

It should be used with caution in patients with any pre-existing liver, kidney, heart or thyroid disease, blood disorders, history of depression or other mental condition, lung disease, diabetes, seizures, brain tumor, multiple sclerosis, lupus, sarcoidosis or any drug allergy. It should be used with caution when engaging in activities requiring alertness. Limit alcohol intake. It should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.

Interference in Pathology

Interferon Beta may interfere in the diagnosis of Thyroid Function Test, Liver Function Test (LFT) .

Available Brands

Click on a strength to view available brands.

Single Ingredient

Inj

300 mcg

Lotion

5 %w/w

Storage Conditions

Interferon Beta should be stored IM Inj . Inj (reconstituted soln) . SC Inj.

Drug Classification

1.8.1 — Immunomodulators

Manufacturers

Manufacturers of Interferon Beta in Pakistan:

Bayer