- What is Avonex (interferon beta-1a), and how does it work?
- What brand names are available for Avonex (interferon beta-1a)?
- Is Avonex (interferon beta-1a) available as a generic drug?
- Do I need a prescription for Avonex (interferon beta-1a)?
- What are the uses for Avonex (interferon beta-1a)?
- What are the side effects of Avonex (interferon beta-1a)?
- What is the dosage for Avonex (interferon beta-1a)?
- Which drugs or supplements interact with Avonex (interferon beta-1a)?
- Is Avonex (interferon beta-1a) safe to use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
- What else should I know about Avonex (interferon beta-1a)?
What are the uses for Avonex (interferon beta-1a)?
- Avonex (Interferon beta-1a) is a prescription medicine used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults. It reduces the occurrence of MS flares and reduces physical disability caused by MS.
What are the side effects of Avonex (interferon beta-1a)?
Common side effects include:
- Headache
- Flu-like symptoms
- Pain
- Chills
- Fever
- Muscle pain
- Weakness
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Stomach pain
- Injections site pain
- Sinusitis
- Nausea
- Urinary tract infection (UTI)
- Dizziness
Other side effects include:
- Injection site inflammation
- Bronchitis
- Joint pain
- Hair loss
- Migraine
- Injection site bruising/bleeding
Possible serious side effects include:
- Congestive heart failure
- Seizures
- Autoimmune disorders
- Serious allergic reactions
- Thrombotic microangiopathy (clotting in small blood vessels)
- Depression
- Suicide
- Psychotic disorders
- Liver failure
- Reduced blood cell counts
- Cardiomyopathy
- Pancytopenia
- Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS)
- Viral transmission
Quick GuideMultiple Sclerosis (MS) Symptoms and Treatment
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.







