Rebif

Generic name:interferon beta-1a [ in-ter-FEAR-on-BAY-ta ]
Drug class:Interferons

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Sep 2, 2020.

What is ?

Rebif is made from human proteins. Interferons help the body fight viral infections.

Rebif is used to treat relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults (including clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting disease, and active secondary progressive disease).

Rebif will not cure MS, it will only decrease the frequency of relapse symptoms.

Warnings

Some people have thoughts about suicide while using Rebif. Stay alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor.

Interferon 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.

Before using Rebif, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have liver disease, a thyroid disorder, epilepsy or other seizure disorder, heart disease, chest pain (angina), congestive heart failure, a heart rhythm disorder, or a history of depression or suicidal behavior.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Rebif if you are allergic to natural or recombinant interferon beta or human albumin.

To make sure Rebif is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

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

• liver disease;

• bleeding problems or a blood clot;

• low blood cell counts;

• heart disease;

• a thyroid disorder;

• a latex allergy;

• an autoimmune disorder such as