Several studies have evaluated Betaseron for
MS treatment. In one study, people who took Betaseron had fewer MS exacerbations, compared to people taking a placebo injection (with no active ingredient). Additionally, as many as 25 percent of those taking Betaseron for two years did not experience any MS exacerbations, compared to only 16 percent of those taking the placebo. MRI brain scans showed that people had significantly fewer lesions after two years of taking Betaseron, compared with those who took the placebo.
When and How to Take Betaseron
General considerations for when and how to take Betaseron include the following:
- Betaseron comes as an injection. It is injected subcutaneously (just under the skin) every other day in the evening before bedtime. You will start at a low dose and slowly work up to a full dose.
- Take Betaseron at the same time each day. You may need to develop a system to remember which days you take Betaseron (and which days you do not).
- Each Betaseron vial is for a single use only. If your dose is less than the full vial, any unused portion must be discarded; it cannot be saved for later.
- It is best to inject Betaseron into areas of the skin that have a layer of fat underneath. This includes the thigh, outer upper arm, stomach (away from the navel), or buttocks. Try to rotate the injection sites (do not inject in the same place twice in a row).
- Make sure your healthcare provider teaches you exactly how to inject Betaseron. This includes how to prepare the skin, how to prepare and mix the injection, how to inject the medication, and what to do with your used needles (this may vary, depending on the local laws and regulations).
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Betaseron will not work if you stop taking it.
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