Rebif is a medication used to treat the relapsing-remitting form of multiple sclerosis (MS). According to the Mayo Clinic, the medicine may also treat genital warts. Interferon beta-1a is the generic name for the medicine, and it is available with a prescription. MS is a disease of the nervous system that causes symptoms such as a loss of sensation and muscular coordination. Currently, there is no known cure for MS, but Rebif helps slow the progression of the disease and appearance of symptoms. The medicine is administered through an injection into the fatty tissue three times a week. Aside from the therapeutic effects, there might be unwanted Rebif side effects.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects of using Rebif include injection site reactions and flu-like symptoms. At the injection site, redness, bruising and pain may occur. The flu-like symptoms include fever along with body aches and pains. Dry mouth, dry eyes, back pain, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness and fatigue may also occur while using Rebif. Headaches, including migraine headaches, have been reported by people using this medication. These symptoms usually decrease with use.
Serious Side Effects
Some side effects of Rebif are more serious. Patients taking this medication have reported feelings of depression and other psychiatric problems such as thoughts of suicide or hurting others. Difficulty sleeping and insomnia can also be experienced, and can compound additional health issues as well as any depression.
Additional Side Effects
Rebif is in the drug category of immune modulators. These medications alter the immune system. Because of this altercation, a decrease in white blood cells, or leukopenia, may occur. Low white blood cell counts cause an increased chance of infections in the body. Rebif may also become toxic to the liver. Frequent liver function tests and blood tests are helpful in determining if there is a problem with either the white bloods or with the liver.
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