Differences in mode of delivery for interferon

[patf]

What is the difference between a once a week IM shot of interferon (Avonex) and the 3x/week subcutaneous shot, (Rebif)?

Was on Avonex for about 2 years and have switched to Rebif.  Side effects of Avonex were very bothersome.  Rebif is essentially the same medication, but is administered differenctly.  Does the IM med simply stay in the body longer?  I am puzzled as to why a higher does of interferon given more frequently has fewer side effects than a lower dose given only once a week.

Thank you.
patf

[CCF-Neuro-M.D.-CS]

The medication injected into the muscle is absorbed slower, and therefore you only need weekly injections. I am not sure which side effects you had, but most people report less side effects with Avonex compared to Rebif. Therefore, I am at a loss to explain the difference. But we must remember that everybody is not created the same, and respond to medications differently. I am glad Rebif is working better for you. Good luck.

[clgebert]

Please tell me what kind of symptoms you had with Avonex? I will be starting it in the next few weeks and I am curious as to what I should expect.
Thanks.c

[patf]

My experience with Avonex was a consistent loss of about 1 day per weekend.  Injection was on Friday night.  I found myself restless and achy through Friday night into Saturday morning. Difficulty sleeping would then have me on the couch until about 3pm Saturday when I would start to feel better.  I tried several   O-T-C products including aspirin, ibuprofin, and pm type preparations.  Results were inconsistent.  The nurse who came to instruct me on injection said she had some patients that had no real disruption in their lives from the injection, so I'm guessing that everyone is different.  Don't discount the treatment based only on what you may hear.  Give it a try and see how you actually do. The first few weeks are the worst, and the flu-like symptoms to tend to subside after a few weeks. The main attraction for me was the fact that it is a once a week shot.  My neurologist wanted me to switch to Rebif (3x/week) because while on Avonex I contintued to have flair ups.  Good Luck.  Let us know how you do.  patf