Betaseron is a prescription medicine that is commonly used for treating multiple sclerosis. This eMedTV segment provides dosing information for the drug, describes its effects, and explains what you should know before starting treatment.
Insomnia, pain, and headache are some of the most commonly reported Betaseron side effects. This eMedTV Web page also lists potentially serious side effects that require medical attention, such as chest pain, allergic reactions, or thyroid problems.
Depression appears to be a potential side effect of Betaseron (interferon beta-1b). This eMedTV resource further explores the link between Betaseron and depression, and explains what your doctor may recommend if you develop any depression symptoms.
Betaseron is used for the treatment of relapsing multiple sclerosis in adults. This article from the eMedTV Web site explains how Betaseron works, describes the effects of the medication, and explores possible off-label Betaseron uses.
It is usually recommended to start with a low dose and gradually work up to the full Betaseron dosage. This eMedTV article provides a detailed Betaseron dosing schedule and includes information on where and how to give the injections.
Certain medications may interact with Betaseron, including zidovudine and theophylline. This eMedTV resource lists specific zidovudine and theophylline products that may cause Betaseron drug interactions and explains the effects of these interactions.
Before using Betaseron, tell your doctor if you have epilepsy or depression. This eMedTV page lists other conditions you should tell your doctor about before taking Betaseron. Warnings and precautions on who shouldn't take the drug are also included.
As this eMedTV segment explains, it is not known what to expect from a Betaseron (interferon beta-1b) overdose, other than the usual Betaseron side effects. This article also lists treatment options available for a Betaseron overdose.
Studies on Betaseron (interferon beta-1b) and pregnancy show the drug may not be safe for pregnant women. This eMedTV segment describes the problems that occurred when Betaseron was given to pregnant animals and explores the risks for pregnant women.
It is recommended that women avoid breastfeeding while taking Betaseron (interferon beta-1b). This part of the eMedTV library offers more information on Betaseron and breastfeeding, and explains whether the drug is likely to pass through breast milk.
Betaseron (interferon beta-1b) is not available as a generic. As this eMedTV page explains, Betaseron is a "biologic" drug that is not allowed to be made in generic form. If laws for biologics change in the future, generic Betaseron may be available.
