Rebif (Interferon Beta)

Description

Rebif is a brand name for the drug Interferon Beta-1a, which belongs to a class of medications known as immunomodulators. Its primary function is to modulate the immune system to slow the progression of relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (RMS), an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the nervous system. Administered through injection, Rebif uses recombinant DNA technology to mirror a substance naturally produced by the body to fight off viral infections and regulate immune responses. Rebif may help decrease the number of flare-ups and may slow the physical disability progression associated with RMS.

Directions

Rebif is administered subcutaneously, which means that the injection is given under the skin. Patients typically receive a dosage of 22 or 44 micrograms three times per week, although the starting dose may be lower to help the body adjust to the medication. It’s essential to rotate the injection site each time to prevent skin irritation. An individual should take care not to inject into areas where the skin is irritated, bruised, red, or infected. Follow all storage instructions for the medication and use the proper technique as demonstrated by a healthcare professional.

Ingredients

The main active ingredient in Rebif is Interferon Beta-1a. Inactive ingredients include albumin (human), mannitol, sodium acetate, and water for injection.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if you have a known allergy to natural or recombinant Interferon Beta, human albumin, or any components of the formulation. This also pertains to those with hypersensitivity reactions, which can develop as skin rashes, itching, or more severe responses.

Cautions

• Consult a healthcare provider about any of the following before starting treatment with Rebif medication:
• Other medications you take
• If you have other medical conditions
• Whether you have allergies
• Whether you’re pregnant or breastfeeding
• If Rebif makes you experience depression or you start thinking about hurting yourself, it's important to tell a doctor straight away. Sometimes, it might be best to stop using Rebif if you begin to feel depressed.
• Taking Rebif can sometimes affect your liver. Doctors will do blood tests to check how your liver is doing. If you start feeling very tired, notice your skin or eyes turning yellow, or if you bruise more easily, you should let your doctor know right away.
• If you have a serious allergic reaction to Rebif, like trouble breathing or swelling around your face and neck, you'll need to stop taking it immediately.
• Rebif is given through an injection, and sometimes the injection site can react badly, causing serious skin issues. You should avoid injecting Rebif into any area that's already sore or looks infected. If bad skin reactions happen, talk to your doctor about maybe injecting it in a different spot, or you might need to pause taking Rebif until things get better.
• Since Rebif can cause your blood cell counts to drop, which could make you get sick more easily or bleed more than usual, your doctor will regularly check your blood to keep an eye on this.
• There have been some reports of a condition that affects blood clotting and the small vessels in the blood after taking Rebif. If you notice any swelling, pain, or color changes in your limbs, you should tell your doctor.
• Some patients have developed a condition where the pressure in the lungs' blood vessels gets too high while on Rebif. If this happens, you might need to stop taking Rebif.
• For those who have had seizures, taking Rebif might increase the chance of having them, so your doctor will watch your condition closely if you have a history of seizures.

Side Effects

Initially, Rebif side effects may include flu-like symptoms, such as muscle aches, fever, fatigue, and chills, which can generally be managed with pain relievers and tend to diminish over time. Stomach pain and altered liver blood tests are also common.

Serious risks include blood disorders that can drastically reduce blood cell and platelet counts, leading to increased susceptibility to infections and bleeding issues. High blood pressure in the lungs and seizures have been observed in some cases. Monitoring through regular blood tests and seeking prompt medical care for any serious or worsening symptoms are key.

References:

1. Rebif (Interferon Beta) Product Monograph. Rockland, MA: EMD Serono; 2023.
2. Rebif (Interferon Beta) Drug Label Information. Rockland, MA: EMD Serono; 2023.

About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

An honors graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Sison started his pharmacy career in a community setting, extending his services to hospitals and clinics over time. He has also worked in medication therapy management, advising patients on proper medication use for their chronic health conditions. Read More....