Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a).
Allergic reactions: In rare cases, some people may develop a Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) to Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a). Signs of an allergic reaction include a severe rash, hives, swollen face or throat, or difficulty breathing. If these occur, contact your doctor immediately. The needle cover on the prefilled syringe contains dry natural rubber. Before you start injections, tell your doctor if you have an allergy to rubber or latex.
Blood counts: Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a) can decrease the number of neutrophils (a type of white blood cell that helps fight infection) and platelets (which help your blood to clot). Your doctor will do blood tests to monitor this. If you notice any signs of infection (e.g., fever, chills, or sore throat) or unusual bleeding or bruising, contact your doctor immediately.
Depression: Depression has been reported by some people taking interferon medications. If you have a history of depression, discuss with your doctor how Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a), and whether any special monitoring is needed. People with depression should be closely monitored by their doctor. If you develop symptoms of depression such as poor concentration, changes in weight, changes in sleep, decreased interest in activities, or thoughts of suicide while taking Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a), contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Heart problems: Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a) may worsen symptoms of heart disease. If you have heart disease such as Angina, Congestive Heart Failure, or arrhythmia, discuss with your doctor how Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a), and whether any special monitoring is needed. Contact your doctor as soon as possible if you develop symptoms of heart problems such as shortness of breath, chest pain, rapid heartbeat, or swollen ankles.
Kidney failure: Interferon beta-1a may cause decreased kidney function. If you have Kidney Disease, discuss with your doctor how Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Liver damage: Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a) may cause severe liver damage. Although rare, this side effect can be very serious. If you have a history of poor liver function, alcohol abuse, or active liver disease, discuss with your doctor how Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a), and whether any special monitoring is needed. Your doctor will test your liver function regularly while you are taking Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a). Contact your doctor as soon as possible if you notice any of the signs of liver damage including yellow eyes or skin, easy bruising of the skin, nausea and vomiting, itching, or abdominal pain.
Seizures: Some people have had seizures while taking Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a), including people who have never had seizures before. If you have seizure disorder, discuss with your doctor how Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a), and whether any special monitoring is needed. If you have a seizure while taking Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a), you should call your doctor right away.
Thyroid problems: Some people taking Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a) develop changes in the function of their thyroid. Symptoms of these changes include feeling cold or hot all the time, a change in weight (gain or loss) without a change in your diet or amount of exercise you get, or feeling emotional. Contact your doctor if you experience these symptoms.
Pregnancy: Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a) should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant while taking Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a), contact your doctor immediately. Women who may become pregnant should use effective contraception while taking Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a).
Breast-feeding: Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a) may pass into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking interferon beta-1a, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Rebif Cartridge (Interferon-beta-1a) have not been established for children and adolescents under 18 years of age.