Interferon Beta-1b Side Effects and Warnings

What are the precautions when taking this medicine?

• Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.

• If you have heart disease, talk with healthcare provider.

• If you have mental illness, talk with healthcare provider.

• If you have liver disease, talk with healthcare provider.

• If you have thyroid disease, talk with healthcare provider.

• Use birth control that you can trust to prevent pregnancy while taking this medicine.

What are some possible side effects of this medicine?

• Irritation where the shot is given.

• Flu-like symptoms. These include headache, weakness, fever, shakes, aches, pains, and sweating. Mild pain medicine may help.

• Constipation. More liquids, regular exercise, or a fiber-containing diet may help. Talk with healthcare provider about a stool softener or laxative.

• Belly pain.

• Depression.

• Swelling in the arms or legs.

Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately

• If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center or emergency department immediately.

• Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.

• Signs or symptoms of depression, suicidal thoughts, nervousness, emotional ups and downs, abnormal thinking, anxiety, or lack of interest in life.

• Severe skin irritation.

• Unusual bruising or bleeding.

• Dark urine or yellow skin or eyes.

• Feeling extremely tired or weak.

• Not able to eat.

• Severe nausea or vomiting.

• Severe belly pain.

• Any rash.

• If you become pregnant while taking this medicine.

• No improvement in condition or feeling worse.