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Avonex®
This section does not contain all the available information regarding drug therapy. It does not take the place of talking to your neurologist, general practitioner or pharmacist. Further information is also available from the MS Society in your state and from the pharmaceutical companies.
What is Avonex®?
The active ingredient of Avonex® is interferon beta-1a. Interferons are proteins produced naturally in the human body to help fight infections and regulate the immune system. Beta interferons have been shown to slow down activity and disease progression in MS. They do this by helping regulate the immune system, reducing attacks on myelin or nerves. Researchers are still investigating exactly how this process works.
How well does Avonex® work?
Clinical trials found that Avonex® (interferon beta -1a) has a significant beneficial effect in people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis by reducing the accumulation of permanent physical disability, exacerbation frequency and disease activity measured by gadolinium-enhanced lesions on brain magnetic resonance images (MRI). If you would like information about the results of the trials please contact your local MS organisation.
How is Avonex® available?
Avonex® is taken weekly. You will receive a month’s supply in a box, which will consist of four injections.
Avonex® is available through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). As it is a very expensive medication,
your doctor will need to obtain an authority to prescribe the medication for you, and only a neurologist can write
your first prescription. There are a number of criteria you must meet before your doctor receives authority to write
this prescription.
For details of the criteria you need to meet to receive Avonex® through the PBS,
please visit the official PBS website at:
How much does Avonex® cost?
If you are eligible for medications through the PBS, you will need to pay a contribution fee for each month’s supply. The Federal Government pays for the remaining cost. The amount of the contribution fee depends upon whether or not you have a pension or concession card and the number of prescriptions you have had dispensed in a year. The amount of this fee is set each year by the Federal Government. In 2009 the fee for people with a Medicare card is $32.90. The fee is $5.30 for people with a Medicare card and a pension or concession card.
Further information about the PBS and your entitlements is available through the Medicare Australia website at:
If you are not eligible for Avonex® through the PBS, for example if you are a visitor from overseas, your neurologist may write a private prescription. This means you will have to pay the full cost at the pharmacy that dispenses your medication. The cost is likely to be over $1000 per month. You will need to request a quote from your pharmacist for the price of any medication which is not subsidised by the PBS.
General information
Most pharmacies will not keep Avonex® in stock. Instead they will place an order with the manufacturer to have stock delivered especially for you. It is therefore important to let your pharmacist know a few days before you need
the medication.
Avonex® Bioset vials needs to be stored below 25°C. Avonex® prefilled syringes need to be kept between 2-8°C.
If the outside temperature is warm it is a good idea to take your medication home in an ice cooler. Your pharmacist may be able to assist with this. Medication should NOT be left in the boot or glove box of the car, or left over 30 minutes in a parked car.
Where can I get more information?
- You can receive information from your neurologist, GP or pharmacist.
- Your local MS organisation on their toll free number 1800 042 138
- Biogen Idec runs a toll free helpline called The Avonex Alliance ®? 1800 286 639
Avonex® is manufactured by:
Biogen Idec Australia Pty Ltd
Suite 2, Level 4
123 Epping Road
North Ryde
NSW - 2113
© 2009 MS Australia
