Interferon, Beta-1a (Systemic)

Brand Names : Avonex, Rebif

Side Effects of This Medicine

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Chills; diarrhea; fever; flu-like symptoms including headache, joint pain, muscle aches, and nausea; pain; unusual bleeding or bruising; unusual tiredness or weakness

Less common

Abdominal pain; chest pain; clumsiness or unsteadiness; convulsions (seizures); coughing; decreased hearing; difficulty in swallowing; dizziness; fainting; flushing; hives or itching; mood changes, especially with thoughts of suicide; muscle spasms; pain or discharge from the vagina; pelvic discomfort, aching, or heaviness; redness, swelling, or tenderness at place of injection; runny or stuffy nose; skin lesions; sneezing; sore throat; speech problems; swelling of face, lips, or eyelids; troubled breathing; wheezing

Rare

Earache; general feeling of discomfort or illness; loss of appetite; painful blisters on trunk of body - also known as shingles; painful cold sores or blisters on lips, nose, eyes, or genitals

Other side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. However, check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:

More common

Heartburn; indigestion; sour stomach

Less common

Hair loss; trouble in sleeping

Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor.