Interferon beta 1a

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Interferon beta-1a is a type of protein and biopharmaceutical used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). It is produced by mammalian cells while they are being infected by viruses. The protein is a type of cytokine, which are proteins that cells use to communicate with each other.

History[edit | edit source]

Interferon beta-1a was first approved for medical use in the United States in 1996. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, a list of the most important medications needed in a basic health system.

Medical uses[edit | edit source]

Interferon beta-1a is used to treat relapsing forms of MS. It can reduce the frequency of relapse and slow the progression of disability. It is administered by injection.

Side effects[edit | edit source]

Common side effects include flu-like symptoms, injection site reactions, and abnormalities in liver function tests. Severe side effects may include liver problems and allergic reactions.

Pharmacology[edit | edit source]

Interferon beta-1a binds to type I interferon receptors, which activates a cascade of intracellular processes that lead to the expression of numerous interferon-stimulated genes. The expressed proteins have antiviral, antiproliferative, and immune-modulating effects.

Society and culture[edit | edit source]

Interferon beta-1a is marketed under the brand names Avonex and Rebif by Biogen and Merck Serono, respectively. It is also available as a biosimilar under the brand name CinnoVex by CinnaGen.

See also[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD