BETASERON

Drug Name: BETASERON

BETASERON DESCRIPTION:
INTERFERON BETA 1-B - INJECTION (in-ter-FEER-on BAY-tuh)

COMMON BETASERON BRAND NAME(S):
Betaseron

BETASERON SIDE EFFECTS:
Diarrhea, constipation, drowsiness, sore throat, runny nose, cystitis (bladder irritation), breast or pelvic pain, menstrual pain, fatigue, headache, and weight gain may occur. Notify your doctor if any of these symptoms persist or worsen. Notify your doctor if a flu-like condition (with fever, chills, muscle aches, malaise or sweating) occurs. This condition has occurred in people using BETASERON and may last 10 days or more. Also, notify your doctor if inflammation, irritation, pain or a change in the appearance of the skin at the injection site occur. If any of the following effects occur, notify your doctor: vaginal bleeding, spotting between menstrual cycles, mood changes, suicidal thoughts, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE BETASERON:
BETASERON: BETASERON is injected under the skin. The drug may be self administered. Make sure you understand the technique and procedures for preparing the drug and for self-injection.

BETASERON USES:
BETASERON is used to treat multiple sclerosis.

BETASERON PRECAUTIONS:
Before using BETASERON tell your doctor your medical history including: any allergies (e.g., albumin protein allergy), depression/suicidal thoughts. BETASERON should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if BETASERON is excreted into breast milk. Consult with your doctor about stopping the drug or stopping breast-feeding. BETASERON increases sensitivity to the sun. Limit sun exposure.

BETASERON DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Before you take BETASERON, tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription drugs you are taking, especially: antipyrine. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

BETASERON OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

BETASERON NOTES:
Lab tests will be done frequently while taking this medication to ensure it is working properly and to watch for potential side effects. Do not allow anyone else to take BETASERON.

MISSED BETASERON DOSE:
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor who will help establish a new dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

BETASERON STORAGE:
Keep vials (unopened or opened) refrigerated between 36 and 46 degrees F (between 2 and 8 degrees C). Use solution within 3 hours after reconstituting. Discard unused portions. Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854-1166. In Canada call 1-800-668-1507.