Drug Detail:Peginterferon beta-1a (systemic) (monograph) (Plegridy)
Drug Class:
Usual Adult Dose for Multiple Sclerosis
Day 1: 63 mcg subcutaneously
Day 15: 94 mcg subcutaneously
Day 29 and every 14 days thereafter: 125 mcg subcutaneously
Comments:
- Patient should be advised to rotate injection sites (abdomen, back of the upper arm, and thigh).
- Prefilled pens and syringes are for single dose only and should be discarded after use.
- Prophylactic and concurrent use of analgesics and/or antipyretics and dose titration may prevent or reduce influenza-like symptoms sometimes experienced.
Use: For the treatment of patients with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS)
Renal Dose Adjustments
No adjustment recommended.
Liver Dose Adjustments
Data not available
Precautions
CONTRAINDICATIONS:
- Hypersensitivity to the active component or any of the ingredients
Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 18 years.
Consult WARNINGS section for additional precautions.
Dialysis
Each hemodialysis reduces the concentration of this drug by approximately 24%.
Other Comments
Administration advice:
- If a dose is missed, it should be administered as soon as possible.
- If 7 days or more to the next planned dose: Patients should administer their missed dose immediately. Therapy can then continue with the next scheduled dose as planned.
- If less than 7 days to the next planned dose: Patients should begin a new 2-week dosing schedule starting from when they administer their missed dose. A patient should not administer 2 doses within 7 days of each other.
Storage requirements:
- Store in a refrigerator between 2C to 8C (36F to 46F).
- Do not freeze.
- Allow drug to warm to room temperature (about 30 minutes) prior to use.
- Store in the closed original carton to protect from light.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the new drugs used for multiple sclerosis (MS)?
- What is Plegridy used for and is it an immunosuppressant?
- How do you use the Plegridy pen and where do you inject?
