A to Z of MS
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A to Z of MS Beta interferon 1a (Rebif)
Product name
Rebif
Rebif (beta interferon 1a) is a disease modifying drug licensed for relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis and some people with secondary progressive MS. Studies have shown that on average Rebif reduces the relapse rate in people with relapsing remitting MS by about a third and also reduces the severity of those relapses that do occur.
Rebif is also licensed for clinically isolated syndrome, an individual's first neurologic episode. The 2009 ABN prescribing guidelines state that neurologists may consider the use of beta interferon for people within 12 months of a clinically isolated syndrome when MRI evidence predicts a high likelihood of recurrent episodes.
Rebif is prescribed under the Department of Health's Risk-sharing Scheme.
How beta interferon works
Interferons are proteins that occur naturally in the immune system. It is thought that beta interferon acts by reducing both inflammation and the immune response that is attacking the body's own myelin.
How is Rebif given?
Rebif is injected under the skin three times a week.
Side effects and contraindications
Side effects include flu like symptoms following injections. These tend to reduce over time and are usually no longer a problem after three months on treatment. Some people also experience injection site reactions such as redness, swelling, and occasionally itching or some pain at the site. These also reduce over time.
Storage
A new formulation of Rebif was introduced in spring 2008. Rebif must now be stored in the fridge (between 2 and 8 degrees) and injected as soon as possible after removal from refrigeration. Storage at room temperature is not recommended.
References
PRISMS Study Group.
Randomised double-blind placebo-controlled study of interferon beta-1a in relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis.
Lancet 1998;352:1498-1504.
abstract
Association of British Neurologists (ABN)
Revised (2009) guidelines for prescribing in multiple sclerosis.
London; ABN: November 2009.
download (pdf 124kb)
Patient Information Leaflet
- Rebif (EMC website)
- Webcast on drug therapy
- Neurologist Prof David Bates addresses some of the questions people ask about disease modifying drugs
- Watch the webcast