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Betaseron is an effective drug for patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). The content below will describe more clearly the effects, side effects and notes when using this drug.
1. Effects of the drug Betaseron
Betaseron is used to treat multiple sclerosis (MS). Interferon is not a single treatment for MS, but it can help slow the progression of the disease and reduce more severe symptoms of the disease such as problems with balance control, numbness, or muscle weakness. .
On the other hand, Betaseron drug is not allowed to be prescribed in the following cases:
Thrombocytopenia in the blood Low white blood cell count Low concentration of neutrophils Neurological problems Depression Chronic heart failure Life problems Seizures Abnormal liver function tests
2. Dosage and usage
2.1. How to use Betaseron injections can be done at home but need to follow the doctor's prescription. Specifically:
It is best to inject Betaseron close to bedtime to reduce side effects. Before injecting Betaseron each dose, it is necessary to clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site next time to reduce subcutaneous damage. Do not inject into skin that is red, sore, scarred, or infected. Inject this medication under the skin in the thigh, abdomen, buttocks, or back of the arm as directed by your doctor, usually every other day. 2.2. Dosage The dosage of Betaseron to use is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase the dose. Follow your doctor's instructions fully. Use this medicine regularly to achieve a therapeutic effect.
In case the patient has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as fainting or difficulty breathing, call the medical authority immediately.
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember and ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for a new dosing schedule. The next injection should be used approximately 48 hours (2 days) after actually receiving the missed dose. Do not use this medicine for 2 days in a row. Never use a double dose to make up for the previous missed dose.
3. Betaseron side effects
Injection site reactions such as pain, swelling, redness, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea and nausea may occur.
Some common side effects such as headache, fatigue, fever, chills, and muscle aches are common when you first start taking this medicine. These symptoms usually last about 1 day after injection and subside or disappear after several months of continued use. These side effects can be reduced by injecting this medication at bedtime and using a fever/pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen before each injection. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:
Mood swings such as new or worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, mental confusion Fingers pale toes, easy bleeding or bruising, discharge or change in skin color at the injection site, joint pain and swelling Signs of kidney problems such as a change in the amount of urine Liver function problems such as nausea , indigestion, loss of appetite, stomach upset, yellow eyes or skin, dark urine Butterfly-shaped rash on the nose and cheeks, new or worsening symptoms of heart failure for an existing condition such as shortness of breath, swelling of the ankles or feet, unusual tiredness Unusual weight gain. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist for safe handling.
4. Note when using Betaseron drug
Before using this medicine, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially with the following:
Hemophilia Heart diseases (such as heart failure, angina, tachycardia or irregular liver disease Mental disorders or mood swings (such as depression, psychosis, suicidal thoughts ) Seizure disorders Thyroid diseases Interferon may make you more susceptible to infections worsen or could worsen any existing infection. Avoid contact with people who have a contagious infection such as chickenpox, measles, flu. Consult a doctor if exposed. contact with someone who has an infection or for more details
During pregnancy this medication should be used only when clearly needed. The risks and benefits should be discussed with your doctor. Currently, no Studies confirm whether Betaseron passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
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Reference source: webmd