Side Effects of Interferon Beta-1b (Cont.)

Common Side Effects of Interferon Beta-1b

Interferon beta-1b has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials. In these studies, the side effects that occur in a group of people taking the drug are documented and are then compared to side effects that occur in another group of people not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
In these studies, the most common interferon beta-1b side effects included:
 
  • Skin reactions at the injection site (such as redness or pain) -- in up to 78 percent of people
  • Flu-like symptoms (such as fever, chills, or muscle aches) -- up to 57 percent
  • Weakness -- up to 53 percent
  • Headaches -- up to 50 percent
  • Pain -- up to 42 percent
  • Muscle pain -- up to 23 percent
  • Insomnia -- up to 21 percent.
     
Other common interferon beta-1b side effects (occurring in 4 to 20 percent of people) included:
 
  • Coordination problems
  • Abdominal pain (stomach pain)
  • An urgent need to urinate
  • Irregular menstrual bleeding
  • Impotence (also known as erectile dysfunction or ED)
  • A general ill feeling (malaise).
     

Final Thoughts on Interferon Beta-1b Side Effects

It is possible that you may experience some or none of the interferon beta-1b side effects listed in this article. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to tell whether any particular side effect (such as nausea) is caused by interferon beta-1b or other factors. Therefore, make sure to let your healthcare provider know if you develop any side effects while taking interferon beta-1b or if something "just does not seem right." While it may not be a side effect, your healthcare provider will be able to diagnose and treat the problem.
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;