Injection, interferon beta-1a, 1 mcg for intramuscular use
HCPCS code
Name of the Procedure:
Injection, interferon beta-1a, 1 mcg for intramuscular use (Q3027)
- Common Name: Interferon Beta Injection
- Technical Name: Recombinant Interferon Beta-1a Intramuscular Injection
Summary
This procedure involves administering a small dose of interferon beta-1a via an intramuscular injection. It is a treatment primarily used for certain types of multiple sclerosis, aiming to reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms.
Purpose
Interferon beta-1a is used to:
- Treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Decrease the number of relapses in MS patients.
- Slow down the progression of physical disability in MS.
Indications
- Diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).
- Experiencing frequent flare-ups or exacerbations.
- Evidence of disease activity on MRI scans.
Preparation
- No specific fasting required.
- Inform the healthcare provider of all medications being taken.
- Blood tests may be required to assess liver function and blood cell counts.
Procedure Description
- The healthcare provider will prepare the interferon beta-1a solution.
- The injection site, typically the thigh or upper arm, will be disinfected.
- Using a sterile syringe, a dose of 1 mcg interferon beta-1a will be drawn.
- The provider will then administer the injection intramuscularly.
- Post-injection, the site may be massaged gently to aid in absorption.
Equipment:
- Sterile syringe and needle.
- Alcohol wipes or antiseptic solution.
- Interferon beta-1a solution.
Duration
The procedure typically takes around 10-15 minutes.
Setting
Usually performed in an outpatient clinic or healthcare provider’s office.
Personnel
- Registered Nurse (RN)
- Medical Doctor (MD) or Nurse Practitioner (NP) for supervision
Risks and Complications
- Common: Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, pain), flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, fatigue).
- Rare: Allergic reactions, liver dysfunction, low blood cell counts.
- Management: Symptomatic treatment for mild reactions, medical intervention for severe complications.
Benefits
- Reduction in the frequency of MS relapses.
- Slower progression of physical disability.
- Improved quality of life.
Recovery
- Immediate post-procedure care includes monitoring for adverse reactions.
- Continue with normal activities unless otherwise advised.
- Follow-up appointments to monitor response and adjust dosage if necessary.
Alternatives
- Other immunomodulatory treatments for MS, such as:
- Glatiramer acetate
- Fingolimod
- Ocrelizumab
- Pros: Different mechanisms of action, may be more effective for certain patients.
- Cons: Different side effect profiles, varying routes of administration and frequency.
Patient Experience
- During: Mild discomfort or pain at the injection site.
- After: Possible flu-like symptoms managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and rest.
- Pain management: Use of analgesics, proper injection technique to minimize discomfort.