Avonex

Generic name:interferon beta-1a [ in-ter-FEAR-on-BAY-ta ]
Drug class:Interferons

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Sep 1, 2020.

What is Avonex?

Avonex is made from human proteins. Interferons help the body fight viral infections.

Avonex is used to treat relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults (including clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting disease, and active secondary progressive disease).

Avonex will not cure MS, it will only decrease the frequency of relapse symptoms.

Warnings

Avonex can harm your liver. Call your doctor if you have symptoms such as nausea, loss of appetite, tiredness, confusion, easy bruising or bleeding, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or yellowing of your skin or eyes.

Some people have thoughts about suicide while using interferon beta-1a. Stay alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor.

Before using Avonex, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have liver disease, a thyroid disorder, epilepsy or other seizure disorder, heart disease, chest pain (angina), congestive heart failure, a heart rhythm disorder, or a history of depression or suicidal behavior.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Avonex if you are allergic to natural or recombinant interferon beta or albumin.

To make sure Avonex is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• depression, mental illness, or suicidal thoughts or actions;

• liver disease;

• bleeding problems or a blood clot;

• low blood cell counts;

• heart disease;

• a thyroid disorder;

• a latex allergy;

• an autoimmune disorder such a...