What is the brand name for interferon beta?
Avonex, Rebif (interferon beta 1a) dosing, indications, interactions, adverse effects, and more.
Who makes beta interferon?
It is produced by the Biogen biotechnology company, originally under competition protection in the US under the Orphan Drug Act. Avonex is sold in three formulations, a lyophilized powder requiring reconstitution, a pre-mixed liquid syringe kit, and a pen; it is administered via intramuscular injection.
How much does beta interferon cost?
Table 44Cost Table of RRMS Treatments
| Drug/Comparator | Strength | Annual Drug Cost ($) |
|---|---|---|
| Fingolimod (Gilenya) | 0.5 mg | $31,170 |
| Glatiramer acetate (Copaxone) | 20 mg/mL | $16,286 |
| Interferon beta-1a (Avonex) | 30 mcg/0.5 mL | $20,597 |
| Interferon beta-1a (Rebif) | 22 mcg (6 MIU) | $20,210 |
What is interferon beta-1b?
Interferon beta-1b injection is used to reduce episodes of symptoms in patients with relapsing-remitting (course of disease where symptoms flare up from time to time) of multiple sclerosis (MS, a disease in which the nerves do not function properly and patients may experience weakness, numbness, loss of muscle …
How much does interferon beta-1a cost?
INTERFERON BETA-1A
| Code & Prescriber | Medicinal Product Pack (Name, form & strength and pack size) | General Patient Charge |
|---|---|---|
| 8805K | INTERFERON BETA-1A interferon beta-1a 6 million units (30 microgram)/0.5 mL injection, 4 x 0.5 mL syringes (PI, CMI) | $42.50 |
| Available brands | ||
| Avonex |
What is the difference between interferon beta-1a and 1b?
IFN β-1a is produced in mammalian cells (Chinese hamster ovary) using a natural human gene sequence and is glycosylated, while IFN β-1b is produced in Escherichia coli cells using a modified human gene sequence containing a genetically engineered cysteine-to-serine substitution at position 17.
How is interferon beta-1b made?
Betaseron® (Interferon beta-lb) is a purified, sterile, lyophilized protein product produced by recombinant DNA techniques. Interferon beta-1b is manufactured by bacterial fermentation of a strain ofEscherichia coli that bears a genetically engineered plasmid containing the gene for human interferon betaser17.
What does Rebif cost?
The cost for Rebif subcutaneous kit – is around $9,644 for a supply of 4.2 milliliters, depending on the pharmacy you visit….Subcutaneous Kit.
| Quantity | Per unit | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 4.2 milliliters | $2,296.25 | $9,644.25 |
How does interferon beta 1a work?
Interferon beta-1a is in a class of medications called immunomodulators. It works by decreasing inflammation and preventing nerve damage that may cause symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
What does interferon beta 1 a do?
Interferon beta-1a is used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis in adults (including clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting disease, and active secondary progressive disease). This medicine will not cure MS, it will only decrease the frequency of relapse symptoms.