Avonex Vs. Betaferon

Everyday living
1

I just would like to know when doctors prescribe Avonex (Interferon beta-1a) and when they prescribe Betaferon (Interferon beta-1b).

Avonex as prescribed for me 3 years ago when I had my first attack optic neuritis. I’ve never taken it. One month ago, I got my second attack and my doctor said I should take Betaferon (Interferon beta-1b) every other day instead of Avonex once per week because it’s stronger. She already knows that I didn’t take Avonex.

I would like to understand why she chose a stronger dosage? Shouldn’t she try the weaker dosage first? What are the selection criteria? or the decision depends on what? Should I take it for the rest of my life? Is it possible to reduce the dosage to Avonex someday? The hospital was crowded so I couldn’t ask those question.

Don’t worry, I’ll follow my doctors advice this time and I understand that this website doesn’t provide medical advice and just opinions. Thank you so much,

2

There isn’t much difference between the ‘strength’ of the two drugs. The difference is just that one (Avonex) is intramuscular and delivered in one injection per week, wheras the other, (Betaferon) is subcutaneous and delivered in 3 injections rather than one.

Both drugs have about the same relapse reduction rate of about 30 to 35%. Both have the possibility of side effects.

Some doctors simply have a preference for one drug over another. Equally, many neurologists in the U.K. now prefer to prescribe an oral therapy, such as Tecfidera or Aubagio as opposed to an injectable.

Sue

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