Brand name: Plegridy
Generic name: Peg-Interferon beta 1a
Who takes it?:
This is for adults with Active Relapsing Remitting MS, who have had 2 relapses in 2 years.
It is considered to be a first line treatment.
Plegridy is given on alternate weeks.
Studies show that it reduces relapses by 30%.
How is it given?:
This is a self-administered injection, it can be given either as a sub-cutaneous (under the skin) injection or as an intra-muscular injection (into a muscle).
The injection is given with the help of an autoject device for sub-cutaneous or needle and syringe for intra-muscular.
You will be taught how to inject by your MS Nurse: either Del or Elaine, and you will complete the first injection at the training.
Where is it given?:
The intramuscular injection is given into the top of the legs, alternating between legs each time you inject. The sub-cutanious injection is given: in the legs, stomach, arms or buttocks (love handle area).
Who Monitors it?:
Bloods are obtained after month 1, 3 then 6 monthly. You will be informed when they are due, we will ask you either to attend your Gp practice or the MS Nurse home phlebotomy service will collect them.
The MS Nurse phlebotomy service, can come to your home environment or after negotiation with your employer, at your work place.
At each MS Nurse appointment you will be asked about your Avonex:
- If you have missed any injections.
- Have any side effects.
- If you have any skin site reactions (you will be asked to show the areas that you inject into).
Side effects:
Flu like symptoms (headache, general aching, temp, shivers) are common in the first 3 months of the treatment.
Injection site reactions such as: redness, bruising, swelling and itching are less common.
Travel:
This medication needs to be kept in your hand luggage when travelling abroad, as the hold of the plane becomes too cold for the Plegridy and may degrade its effectiveness
We can provide a letter for you to show to custom officers, as you will be traveling with sharps.
Vaccine:
Whilst on Plegridy it is safe to have Live and Non Live Vaccines
https://www.mssociety.org.uk/care-and-support/health-and-social-care/health-care/flu-jabs
Support
https://mstrust.org.uk/a-z/plegridy-peginterferon-beta-1a