What is Betaseron used for and are there any side effects?
Betaseron® (interferon beta-1b) is a drug used to treat the relapsing-remitting form of multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is an autoimmune disease that causes nerve damage leading to weakness, numbness and loss of bodily control and function. Betaseron® modifies the immune system, decreasing the number of replaces as well as the amount of physical disability a person suffers from. Interferon beta-1b can provide some relief for multiple sclerosis patients, but there is currently no cure for MS.
Betaseron® dosage
The dose of injectable Betaseron® varies from person to person and may be given at a clinic or at home. Talk to your doctor about the best Betaseron® dosage for you and always follow the directions on the label. Once mixed, Betaseron® injections must be kept in the refrigerator and used within three hours.
Betaseron® side effects
Side effects of Betaseron® include
flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, chills, fatigue, nausea and vomiting, dizziness and
pain. The drug can also cause injection site reactions, numbness, stuffy nose and high blood
pressure.
Rare, but more serious side effects include difficult breathing, racing heartbeat, vision
changes, urine changes, breast pain, depression, liver problems and allergic reactions. Speak
with your physician if your side effects become bothersome or severe. Talk to your doctor or
pharmacist if you have any questions about Betaseron®.
Learn more about Multiple Sclerosis in our
Health Encyclopedia.
If you're looking for more specific answers to specific questions, ask a Walgreens pharmacist here.
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