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

1. The healthcare provider will prepare the interferon beta-1a solution.
2. The injection site, typically the thigh or upper arm, will be disinfected.
3. Using a sterile syringe, a dose of 1 mcg interferon beta-1a will be drawn.
4. The provider will then administer the injection intramuscularly.
5. 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.