Peginterferon beta-1a

Generic name: peginterferon beta-1a [ peg-in-ter-FEAR-on-BAY-ta-- 1A ]
Brand names: Plegridy, Plegridy Pen, Plegridy Pen Starter Pack, Plegridy Starter Pack
Dosage forms: intramuscular solution (125 mcg/0.5 mL); subcutaneous solution (125 mcg/0.5 mL)
Drug class:Interferons

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 3, 2021. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is peginterferon beta-1a?

Peginterferon beta-1a is used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (including clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting disease, and active secondary progressive disease) in adults who are 18 to 65 years old.

peginterferon beta-1a will not cure MS, it will only decrease the frequency of relapse symptoms.

Peginterferon beta-1a may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Peginterferon beta-1a can harm your liver. Call your doctor if you have symptoms such as nausea, loss of appetite, tiredness, confusion, easy bruising or bleeding, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or yellowing of your skin or eyes.

Some people have thoughts about suicide while taking peginterferon beta-1a. Stay alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use peginterferon beta-1a if you are allergic to it.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• depression, mental illness, or suicidal thoughts or actions;

• liver disease;

• bleeding problems;

• an allergy to latex (if you use the prefilled syringe);

• low blood cell counts;

• heart disease;

• a thyroid disorder;

• a seizure; or

• an autoimmune disorder such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or psoriasis.

Some people have thoughts about suicide while taking peginterferon beta-1a. Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits. Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.

If you are pregnant, your name may be listed on a pregnancy registry to track the effects of peginterferon beta-1a on the baby.

Not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 or older than 65 years old.

How is peginterferon beta-1a given?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionall...