When did AVONEX come on the market?

When did AVONEX come on the market?

About AVONEX It was launched in the U.S. in 1996 and in Europe in 1997 for the treatment of relapsing forms of MS to slow the progression of disability and reduce relapses. AVONEX has been proven effective in clinical trials for up to three years. AVONEX is marketed internationally in more than 90 countries.

Who manufactures AVONEX?

Financial and Insurance Assistance | AVONEX® (interferon beta-1a) At Biogen, our goal is for everyone to get the support they need so they can afford their treatment.

What happens if I miss my AVONEX injection?

Missed Dose Avonex®: If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you can. Go back to your regular schedule the following week. Do not use this medicine 2 days in a row. Rebif®: If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you can.

What is AVONEX made from?

AVONEX is a 166 amino acid glycoprotein with a molecular weight of approximately 22,500 daltons. It is produced by recombinant DNA technology using genetically engineered Chinese Hamster Ovary cells into which the human interferon beta gene has been introduced.

Is Avonex FDA approved?

Biogen Idec announced last week that the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved both a new device (the Avonex Pen) as well as a new dosing regimen for Avonex (interferon beta-1a).

What are the side effects of interferon beta?

Interferon beta-1a may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• tight muscles.
• dizziness.
• numbness, burning, tingling, or pain in hands or feet.
• joint pain.
• eye problems.
• runny nose.
• toothache.
• hair loss.

Is there a generic AVONEX?

There is not a generic version of Avonex. It is the brand name for the generic medication interferon beta-1a. In 2009, the patent on Avonex was extended through 2026, when generic versions may become available.

When is AVONEX generic?

When Will the Generic Be Available? Some or all forms of Avonex may become available as generic interferon beta-1a after September 2026, depending on FDA approval and patent expiration. It is possible that Avonex may become available as generic interferon beta-1a after September 2026.

How do you give interferon beta-1a?

If you are using a syringe or prefilled syringe, you can inject interferon beta-1a intramuscular in your upper arms or thighs. If you are using a prefilled autoinjection pen, you can inject interferon beta-1a intramuscular in the outer surface of your upper thighs. Use a different spot for each injection.

How long should I take Avonex?

New Long-Term Data Show That Patients Taking AVONEX(R) for up to 15 Years Experience Reduced Disability Progression and Improved Quality of Life | Biogen.

Where do you inject AVONEX Pen?

AVONEX PEN is injected into the muscle (intramuscularly). AVONEX PEN should be injected into the upper, outer thigh (See Figure M). Step 10: Choose an injection site and wipe the skin with an alcohol wipe (See Figure N). Let the injection site dry before injecting the dose.

Can AVONEX be injected in arm?

AVONEX should be injected into the thigh or upper arm (See Figures G and H). Change (rotate) your injection sites for each dose. Do not use the same injection site for each injection. Do not inject into an area of the body where the skin is irritated, reddened, bruised, infected or scarred in any way.

How do I take my Avonex pen?

Take 1 AVONEX PEN Administration Dose Pack out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before you plan on injecting the AVONEX dose to allow it to reach room temperature. Do not use external heat sources such as hot water to warm the AVONEX PEN.

What should I know about Avonex before using it?

Your healthcare provider or nurse should watch you inject the dose of AVONEX the first time AVONEX PEN is used. Important information: The tip of the cap of the AVONEX PEN is made of natural rubber latex. Tell your healthcare provider if you are allergic to rubber or latex. How should I store AVONEX?

Where do you inject Avonex?

AVONEX is injected into the muscle (intramuscularly). AVONEX should be injected into the thigh or upper arm (See Figures G and H ). Change (rotate) your injection sites for each dose.

What should be included in patient education about the Avonex syringe?

Inform patients that the tip cap of the AVONEX Prefilled Syringe and AVONEX PEN contains natural rubber latex which may cause allergic reactions. Provide appropriate instruction for methods of self-injection of AVONEX, including careful review of the AVONEX Medication Guide.