Avonex (interferon beta-1a) is a medication used to manage relapsing multiple sclerosis, a neurological condition which affects your ability to eat, speak and move. According to Drugs.com, Avonex contain interferons, proteins in your body that defend against viral infections. Typically, your doctor will prescribe a 30mcg intramuscular injection of Avonex once a week, according to the National Library of Medicine.
Common Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, Avonex's most common side effects include headaches, stomach pain, dizziness and a stuffy or runny nose. It can also cause redness, swelling and inflammation at the injection site. In a placebo-controlled study of 351 patients receiving Avonex, the National Library of Medicine says that 58 percent of the studied patients developed a headache, 8 percent experienced stomach pain and pain at the injection site, and 6 percent developed inflammation at the injection site. Also, 14 percent experienced dizziness. Call your physician when Avonex's common effects persist for more than 3 to 4 days.
Serious Side Effects
Avonex can cause a wide array of potentially life-threatening side effects. According to the National Library of Medicine, Avonex can provoke depression and suicidal thoughts or behaviors, and hepatic (liver) failure. Signs of hepatic failure include stomach pain, yellowing of the skin (jaundice), poor appetite and nausea. Other serious side effects include easy bruising or bleeding, weakness, convulsions and difficulty urinating, says Drugs.com. If left untreated, some of these effects can cause brain damage or even death. Avonex can sometimes cause paresthesias (numbness or tingling), fever, the flu, infections and body aches, as well. Call your doctor immediately if Avonex causes these side effects.
Additional Concerns
Do not use this medication if your are pregnant as Avonex can cause miscarriage, according to Drugs.com.
Avoid taking Avonex when you suffer from liver disease, seizure disorders, heart or thyroid problems and a history of depression or suicide, says Drugs.com. Avonex can worsen these medical manifestations.
It is unclear whether Avonex passes into breast milk, but notify your doctor if you are breast feeding.
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Avonex. The combination can lead to liver damage.
Drugs.com says you should not take Avonex with birth control pills, acetaminophen, cancer medications, methotrexate, cholesterol medications such as atorvastatin, seizure medications such as carbamezepine and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen. Avonex combined with these medications can increase the risk of experiencing side effects.
Member Comments