Consumer medicine information

Avonex

Interferon beta-1a

BRAND INFORMATION

Brand name

Avonex

Active ingredient

Interferon beta-1a

Schedule

S4

 

Consumer medicine information (CMI) leaflet

Please read this leaflet carefully before you start using Avonex.

What is in this leaflet

This leaflet answers some common questions about AVONEX Solution for Injection (also known as 'PreFilled Syringe'). It does not contain all the available information. It does not take the place of talking to your specialist, doctor or pharmacist.

The information in this leaflet was last updated on the date shown on the final page. More recent information on this medicine may be available. Make sure you speak to your pharmacist, nurse or doctor to obtain the most up to date information on this medicine. You can also download the most up to date leaflet from www.biogen.com.au. The updated leaflet may contain important information about AVONEX and its use that you should be aware of.

All medicines have benefits and risks. Your doctor has weighed the benefits AVONEX is expected to have for you, against the risks of using it.

If you have any questions about using this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist or contact the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society in your State. You can also telephone the MS ALLIANCE Helpline on 1800 286 639 in Australia or 0800 286 639 in New Zealand (NZ) for additional assistance on using AVONEX.

Keep this leaflet, you may need to read it again.

What AVONEX is used for

AVONEX is used for the treatment of relapsing forms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). AVONEX treatment has been shown to:

  • Slow the progression of disability
  • Reduce the number of relapses
  • Delay the onset of definite MS after an illness suggesting MS

The cause of MS is not yet known. MS affects the brain and spinal cord. In MS, the body's immune system reacts against its own myelin (the 'insulation' surrounding nerve fibres). In relapsing forms of MS, people have 'exacerbations' from time to time (e.g. blurred vision, weakness in the legs or arms, or loss of control of bowel or bladder function). They are followed by periods of recovery. Recovery may be complete or incomplete. If it is incomplete there is 'progression of disability'.

AVONEX belongs to a group of medicines called interferons. Interferons exist naturally in the body to help fight viral infections and regulate the body's immunity.

Although the exact mechanism of interferons in MS is unknown, it is thought that AVONEX works by decreasing the unwanted immune reaction against myelin.

There is no information on the use of this medicine in those below 12 years of age.

Ask your doctor if you have any questions about why AVONEX has been prescribed for you. Your doctor may have prescribed AVONEX for another reason.

AVONEX is available only with a doctor's prescription.

Use only for the person for whom it has been prescribed.

Before you use AVONEX

When you must not use it

Do not use AVONEX if you have an allergy to:

  • AVONEX or any other interferon beta
  • Any of the other ingredients listed at the end of this leaflet

Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include shortness of breath, wheezing or difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or other parts of the body, rash, itching or hives on the skin.

Do not use AVONEX if you have severe depression, and particularly if you are having suicidal thoughts. Depression is common in people with MS and in those using medicines like AVONEX.

Tell your doctor if you are feeling depressed, or having suicidal thoughts.

Your doctor can help you decide whether you should use AVONEX or not.

Do not use AVONEX if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant. It may affect the development of your baby if you use it during pregnancy.

If you wish to become pregnant and are having treatment with AVONEX, please discuss this with your doctor.

Do not use AVONEX after the expiry date printed on the pack or if the packaging is torn or shows signs of tampering. Do not use AVONEX if the medicine is cloudy, contains particles or is discoloured. It should be colourless or slightly yellow.

If it has expired or is damaged or looks differently than it should, return it to your pharmacist for disposal.

If you are not sure whether you should use this medicine, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Before you use it

Tell your doctor if you have allergies to any other medicines, foods, preservatives or dyes.

Tell your doctor if you have or have had:

  • Depression or problems with your moods, or if you have ever considered committing suicide
  • A seizure, fit or convulsion
  • Liver or kidney problems
  • Heart problems
  • Bleeding problems, bruising easily, frequent infections (these could be signs of lower than normal blood counts in your bone marrow)

Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your doctor can help you decide if you will use AVONEX or breastfeed. You should not do both.

If you have not told your doctor about any of the above, tell them before you start using AVONEX.

Taking other medicines

Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, including any that you buy without a prescription from a pharmacy, supermarket or health food shop.

In particular, tell your doctor if you are taking any medicine:

  • Used to treat epilepsy (prevent fits)
  • Used to treat depression
  • That affects the bone marrow, such as medicines to treat cancer.

Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist if you have any questions about medicines to be careful with or avoid while using AVONEX.

How to use AVONEX

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor, MS education nurse or pharmacist carefully. They may differ from the information contained in this leaflet.

How much to use

The usual full dose of AVONEX is 30 micrograms once a week, given as a 0.5 mL injection.

Starting AVONEX
If you are new to AVONEX, your doctor or MS nurse may advise you to gradually increase your dose to minimise potential side effects of AVONEX, such as flu-like symptoms, before taking the full dose.

How to use it

Starting AVONEX
Your doctor or MS nurse may provide you with an AVOSTARTCLIP titration kit to help gradually increase your dose of AVONEX during the first 3 weeks of treatment. The kit contains 3 different coloured clips (labelled week 1, 2 and 3). Each clip is designed for use with AVONEX solution for injection and attaches to the pre-filled syringe. The clip enables either a quarter, a half or a three-quarter dose of AVONEX to be injected during your first 3 weeks of treatment.

Each AVOSTARTCLIP should be used once and then discarded along with any remaining AVONEX.

For further details on use, please follow the instructions provided with the AVOSTARTCLIP titration kit.

AVONEX is given by injection into muscle, usually in the thigh or upper arm. The buttock is not a suitable site for injection. Your doctor will recommend an injection site suitable for you.

How to inject
Many people with MS learn to give themselves the injection or have it given by a carer.

Self-injection needs to be taught and practised. It is important that a qualified health care professional supervises your first injection.

Your doctor may teach you to self-inject or arrange for an MS education nurse to do so.

Talk to your doctor or the MS Society or telephone the MS ALLIANCE Helpline (1800 286 639 in Australia or 0800 286 639 in NZ) for more information.

After being taught to self-inject, you should refer to the leaflet in the pack for step-by-step instructions about how to prepare and inject AVONEX. Patient support kits are available by telephoning the MS Alliance on 1800 286 639 in Australia or 0800 286 639 in NZ.

AVONEX Solution for Injection is pre-mixed ready for you to use and should be stored in a refrigerator. It is recommended that you remove it from the refrigerator about half-an-hour before you want to use it. This allows the temperature of the medicine to approach room temperature.

Do not use heat sources (heater or hot water) to warm it. Heating can damage this medicine.

Always inspect AVONEX Solution before use. The medicine should be clear and colourless or slightly yellow.

Do not inject if the solution is discoloured or cloudy or contains particles.

Talk to your specialist, doctor or pharmacist, contact the MS Society, or telephone the MS Alliance on 1800 286 639 in Australia or 0800 286 639 in NZ, if you have any questions about how to use AVONEX.

How long to use it

The positive effects of AVONEX are not seen immediately. They occur with long-term treatment. It is important to continue treatment with AVONEX unless your doctor tells you to stop.

If you forget to use it

If it is less than 2 days before your next injection, skip the dose you missed and have your next injection when you are meant to.

Otherwise, have it as soon as you remember and then resume your regular weekly dosing schedule.

Do not use a double dose to make up for the dose that you missed. This may increase the chance of you getting an unwanted side effect.

If you are not sure what to do, ask your doctor or pharmacist, contact the MS Society in your State, or telephone the MS ALLIANCE Helpline (1800 286 639 in Australia or 0800 286 639 in NZ).

If you have trouble remembering your injections, ask your pharmacist or MS education nurse for some hints.

It is important not to miss injections as this can affect the success of your treatment.

If you use too much (overdose)

Immediately telephone the Australian Poisons Information Centre (telephone 13 11 26), or the New Zealand National Poisons Information Centre (telephone 0800 POISON or 0800 764 766), if you think you or anyone else may have used too much AVONEX. Do this even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning. You may need urgent medical attention.

While you are using AVONEX

Things you must do:

If you become pregnant while on treatment with AVONEX, immediately tell your doctor. You and your doctor will decide what is best for you and your baby. It is likely that your doctor will recommend you stop using AVONEX during your pregnancy.

If you are a female of childbearing age and are sexually active, you should use birth control during treatment with AVONEX.

Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medicine while you are using AVONEX. If he or she recommends that you take a medication to reduce symptoms of pain and inflammation, follow their advice carefully. Do not take more than the recommended dose.

Tell any other doctors, dentists and pharmacists who treat you that you are using this medicine.

If you are about to have any blood tests, tell your doctor that you are using AVONEX.

Keep all your doctor's appointments so that your progress can be checked.

Your doctor may do blood tests before you start treatment and from time to time to monitor your progress and prevent unwanted side effects.

Things you must not do

Do not give AVONEX to anyone else, even if they appear to have the same condition as you.

Do not stop using AVONEX or change the dosage, without checking with your doctor.

Things to be careful of

Be careful drinking alcohol while you are on treatment with AVONEX. Rarely, people treated with interferons including AVONEX, have experienced serious liver problems. It is not known whether this risk is increased by alcohol but it is possible.

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about this if you want more information.

Side effects

Tell your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible if you do not feel well while using AVONEX.

AVONEX helps most people with MS but it may have unwanted effects in a few people. All medicines have side effects. Sometimes they are serious, most of the time they are not. You may need medical attention if you get some side effects.

Do not be alarmed by the following lists of side effects. You may not experience any of them.

Ask your doctor, MS nurse or pharmacist to answer any questions you may have.

The most common side effect is to feel 'flu-like' symptoms, e.g. mainly tiredness, muscle aches, shivering and fever. Your doctor or MS nurse may advise you to gradually increase your dose of AVONEX during the first 3 weeks of treatment to help reduce these symptoms. These side effects generally occur less often as therapy continues.

To help further reduce these symptoms, your doctor may advise you to take a medication (e.g., paracetamol, ibuprofen) to reduce fever, pain and inflammation before your injection and for up to one day afterwards.

Tell your doctor, nurse or pharmacist if you notice any of the following and they worry you:

  • Headache
  • Nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea
  • Abdominal (stomach) pain
  • Chest pain
  • Migraine
  • Joint or muscle pain, stiffness or spasms
  • Dizziness, feeling faint
  • Sleeplessness
  • Soreness, redness or bruising at the injection site
  • Loss of appetite
  • Runny nose, coughing
  • Increased sweating (sometimes at night) or flushing
  • Rash
  • Strong and frequent urge to urinate, with pain or burning sensation when urinating
  • Reduced sensitivity to touch

The above list includes the more common side effects of AVONEX. These effects might also be related to your general health or the MS process, or to a combination of these.

Tell your doctor as soon as possible if you notice any of the following:

  • Unusual confusion, anxiety, worsening of depression, severe mood swings or thoughts of suicide
  • Seizures, fits, convulsions or fainting
  • Yellowing of the skin and eyes (also called jaundice)
  • Breathlessness, persistent coughing, swelling in hands, feet or lower arms and legs, or palpitations
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Hives or itchy skin

The above list includes serious side effects that may require medical attention. Serious side effects are rare.

If any of the following happen, tell your doctor immediately, or go to Accident and Emergency at your nearest hospital:

  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth or throat which may cause difficulty in swallowing or breathing
    These could be symptoms of an allergic reaction.
  • Discharge from the injection site or pain, redness or swelling that does not go away, tissue destruction (necrosis)

The above list includes very serious side effects. You may need urgent medical attention or hospitalisation. These side effects are very rare.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you notice anything else that is making you feel unwell. Other side effects not listed above may occur in some people.

Some side effects can only be found when your doctor does tests from time to time to check your progress. They include changes in thyroid function, liver function or blood counts.

After using AVONEX

Storage

Keep your AVONEX in the sealed tray until it is time to use it. The medicine will not keep as well if taken out of the sealed tray.

Keep AVONEX in the refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C. If necessary, you can keep AVONEX out of the refrigerator for up to 7 days. If out of the refrigerator, store the sealed tray in a cool dry place where the temperature stays below 30°C.

Do not use any AVONEX that has been out of the refrigerator for more than 7 days (refer to Disposal below).

Do not store AVONEX or any other medicine in the bathroom or near a sink. Do not leave it on a windowsill or in the car. Heat and dampness can destroy some medicines.

AVONEX MUST NOT BE FROZEN. Do not place in the freezer or freezing compartment of a refrigerator.

Keep AVONEX where children cannot reach it.

Disposal

Please read the package insert carefully for full details, including safe disposal of needles and syringes after use.

If your doctor tells you to stop using AVONEX or the expiry date has passed, ask your pharmacist what to do with any medicine that is left over.

Product description

Each pack of AVONEX contains 4 sealed blister trays. Use 1 blister tray for each weekly treatment. A pack of AVONEX provides treatment for 4 weeks.

Your pack of AVONEX already includes a needle for injection. It may be possible for your doctor to prescribe you a shorter and thinner needle depending on your body type. Talk to your doctor if you are interested in whether this is appropriate for you.

AVONEX Solution does not contain any preservative.

Use on one occasion only.

Do not reuse needles or syringes.

What it looks like

Each blister tray contains:

  • 1 pre-filled syringe of sterile AVONEX Solution
  • 1 needle

Ingredients

Each pre-filled syringe of AVONEX Solution contains 30 micrograms of interferon beta-1a in 0.5 mL of ready-to-use solution. It also contains:

  • Sodium acetate
  • Glacial acetic acid
  • Arginine hydrochloride
  • Polysorbate 20
  • Water for injections

Further information

You can obtain more information from your doctor, pharmacist or the MS Society in your State, or by telephoning the MS Alliance on 1800 286 639 in Australia or 0800 286 639 in NZ.

Supplier

AVONEX is supplied in Australia by:

Biogen Australia Pty Ltd
ABN 30 095 760 115
Level 4
2 Banfield Road
Macquarie Park
NSW 2113

AVONEX is supplied in NZ by:

Biogen NZ Biopharma Limited
155 Fanshawe Street
Auckland

Australian Registration Number:

AUST R 95419

This leaflet was prepared in September 2023.

AVONEX is a registered trademark of Biogen MA Inc.

Published by MIMS November 2023

BRAND INFORMATION

Brand name

Avonex

Active ingredient

Interferon beta-1a

Schedule

S4

 

1 Name of Medicine

Interferon beta-1a (rch).

2 Qualitative and Quantitative Composition

Avonex is supplied as a sterile solution for injection containing interferon beta-1a for intramuscular injection. Each 0.5 mL solution for injection contains 30 microgram of interferon beta-1a with 6 million IU of antiviral activity.
Avonex solution for injection also contains sodium acetate, glacial acetic acid, arginine hydrochloride, polysorbate 20 and water for injections.
Avonex solution for injection is available as Avonex pre-filled syringe and Avonex Pen.

3 Pharmaceutical Form

Solution for injection.

4 Clinical Particulars

4.1 Therapeutic Indications

Avonex is indicated for the treatment of relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS).
Avonex is indicated in patients who have experienced a single demyelinating event and are at risk of developing clinically definite MS based on the presence of brain MRI abnormalities characteristic of MS.
Avonex 60 microgram is indicated for the treatment of secondary progressive MS in patients in whom relapse is still a feature of the disease. Avonex 60 microgram should not be initiated in patients with secondary progressive MS who have not experienced a relapse in the previous 12 months.

4.2 Dose and Method of Administration

The optimal dosing of Avonex has not been fully resolved. The following recommendations for Avonex are based on the major placebo-controlled studies performed to date.
The recommended dosage of Avonex is 30 microgram (6 million IU) injected IM once a week.
One dose comparison study (C94-805) did not show a benefit of 60 microgram once weekly over 30 microgram once weekly in early disease but there may be a requirement for higher doses at more advanced stages of the disease. The efficacy of more frequent dosing regimens has not been assessed.

Relapsing-remitting MS and patients with one demyelinating event and at risk of developing MS.

The recommended dosage of Avonex is 30 microgram (6 million IU) injected IM once a week.

Secondary progressive MS of moderate severity (EDSS 3.5-6.5) with recent or continuing relapses.

The recommended dosage of Avonex is 60 microgram (12 million IU) injected IM once a week.
A significant reduction in the severity and incidence of flu-like symptoms has been demonstrated by titration of Avonex at the initiation of treatment. Titration is achieved by incremental ¼ dose increases each week, reaching the full dose (30 microgram per week) by the fourth week (see Table 1).
The Avostartclip titration kit, designed for use with the pre-filled syringe, can be used to achieve the ¼ dose increments. Each Avostartclip should be used once and then discarded along with any remaining Avonex.
An antipyretic analgesic may be given prior to the injection and for the next 24 hours to further assist in decreasing the possible flu-like symptoms associated with Avonex.
Avonex pre-filled syringe (solution for injection) is supplied to patients with a 30 mm, 23 gauge needle or a 32 mm, 23 gauge needle for IM injection included in the pack. Doctors may prescribe a 25 mm, 25 gauge needle to patients for whom such a needle is appropriate to administer an IM injection. It is important to avoid subcutaneous injection because of the increased risk of local adverse effects. Sites for injection include the thigh or upper arm unless recommended otherwise by the prescribing physician. The buttock is not a suitable site for injection.
Avonex Pen (Solution for Injection) is supplied to patients with a 16 mm, 25 gauge needle for IM injection included in the pack. The needle supplied with Avonex Pen is specific for the pre-filled pen and may not be substituted with another needle. The recommended site for injection with Avonex Pen is the upper, outer thigh muscle.
Patients may give themselves the injection provided that they are physically capable, have been appropriately instructed in IM injection technique, and are under medical supervision. In some cases it may be appropriate for a carer to give the injection under the same provisions. The first injection should be given under the supervision of an appropriately qualified health care professional (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use).
Before proceeding, consult the Directions for Use provided with Avonex. The Directions for Use contain detailed stepwise instructions.

Solution for injection, available as Avonex pre-filled syringe and Avonex Pen.

The Avonex pre-filled syringe or Avonex Pen should be inspected and if it contains particulate matter or is other than colourless to slightly yellow in colour, it should be discarded. Avonex pre-filled syringe and Avonex Pen should be removed from the refrigerator and allowed to warm to room temperature (15°C to 30°C) for approximately 30 minutes before injection. Do not use external heat sources such as hot water to warm the Avonex pre-filled syringe or Avonex Pen. The formulation does not contain a preservative. Each Avonex pre-filled syringe contains a single dose only. Any unused portion of the pre-filled syringe should be discarded. Each Avonex Pen contains a single dose only.

4.3 Contraindications

Avonex is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to natural or recombinant interferon beta, or to any excipients listed in Section 2 Qualitative and Quantitative Composition.
Avonex is contraindicated in patients with current severe depression and/or suicidal ideation and in women who are or plan to become pregnant while on therapy.

4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use

The efficacy of Avonex has been demonstrated during up to 3 years of treatment.
The safety of Avonex has been demonstrated during up to 6 years of treatment.

Flu-like symptoms.

Patients should be informed of the most common adverse events associated with Avonex administration, including symptoms associated with the flu-like syndrome (see Section 4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects)). Titrating at the initiation of therapy has demonstrated a significant reduction in the severity and incidence of flu-like symptoms. Flu-like symptoms are most prominent at the initiation of therapy but decrease in frequency with continued treatment. An antipyretic analgesic may be given prior to the injection and for the next 24 hours to further assist in decreasing possible flu-like symptoms.

Seizure disorders.

Caution should be exercised when administering Avonex to patients with a history of seizures, to those receiving treatment with antiepileptics, particularly if their epilepsy is not adequately controlled with antiepileptics (see Section 4.5 Interactions with Other Medicines and Other Forms of Interactions; Section 4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects)). Patients who newly develop seizures with Avonex therapy should be discontinued and an aetiological basis should be established. Appropriate anti-convulsant therapy should be instituted prior to resuming Avonex therapy (see Section 4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects)).

Severe renal failure and myelosuppression.

Extra caution should be used in administering Avonex to patients with severe renal failure and to patients with severe myelosuppression.

Cardiac disease.

Patients with cardiac disease, such as angina, congestive heart failure or arrhythmia, should be closely monitored for worsening of their clinical condition during therapy with Avonex. Avonex does not have any known direct acting cardiac toxicity; however, symptoms of the flu-like syndrome seen with Avonex therapy may prove stressful to patients with cardiac conditions.

Hepatic injury.

Rare post-marketing cases of serious hepatic injury including autoimmune hepatitis, hepatitis and hepatic failure have been reported with beta-interferon treatment for MS, including very rare cases with Avonex. In some patients a recurrence of elevated serum levels of hepatic enzymes has occurred upon Avonex re-challenge. In some cases, these events have occurred in the presence of other drugs that have been associated with hepatic injury. The potential of additive effects from multiple drugs or other hepatotoxic agents (e.g. alcohol) has not been determined. It is recommended that liver function tests be undertaken prior to initiation of treatment with Avonex and monitored periodically thereafter. Withdrawal of treatment with Avonex should be considered if hepatic transaminase levels significantly increase or if they are associated with clinical symptoms such as jaundice. Avonex should be initiated with caution in patients with a history of significant liver disease and in patients with active liver disease.

Suicide and depression.

Avonex should be administered with caution to patients with previous or current depressive disorders, in particular to those with antecedents of suicidal ideation (see Section 4.3 Contraindications). Depression and suicidal ideation are known to occur in increased frequency in the MS population and in association with interferon use. Patients treated with Avonex should be advised to report immediately any symptoms of depression and/or suicidal ideation to their prescribing physician. Patients exhibiting depression should be monitored closely during therapy with Avonex and treated appropriately. Cessation of therapy with Avonex should be considered (see Section 4.3 Contraindications; Section 4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects)).

Thrombotic microangiopathy.

Cases of thrombotic microangiopathy, manifested as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura or haemolytic uraemic syndrome have been reported, including fatal cases. Monitoring of early symptoms in all patients e.g. new onset hypertension, impaired renal function and thrombocytopenia is recommended. Prompt treatment is required and discontinuation of treatment with interferon is recommended.

Nephrotic syndrome.

Cases of nephrotic syndrome with different underlying nephropathies including collapsing focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), minimal change disease (MCD), membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) and membranous glomerulopathy (MGN) have been reported during treatment with interferon-beta products. Events were reported at various time points during treatment and may occur after several years of treatment with interferon-beta. Periodic monitoring of early signs or symptoms, e.g. oedema, proteinuria and impaired renal function is recommended, especially in patients at higher risk of renal disease. Prompt treatment of nephrotic syndrome is required and discontinuation of treatment with interferon should be considered.

Laboratory monitoring.

Laboratory abnormalities are associated with the use of interferons. Therefore, in addition to those laboratory tests normally required for monitoring patients with MS, complete and differential white blood cell counts, platelet counts, and blood chemistry, including liver function tests, are recommended during Avonex therapy. Patients with myelosuppression may require more intensive monitoring of blood cell counts.

Administration.

Avonex should be administered by intramuscular (IM) injection only.
If home use of Avonex is prescribed by the physician, instructions in reconstitution and injection must be given to the patient and/or to others who may administer the injection. If a patient is to self-administer, the ability of that patient to self-inject intramuscularly should be assessed. The first injection should be performed under the supervision of an appropriately qualified health care professional. If home use is chosen, a puncture resistant container for disposal of used needles and syringes should be supplied to the patient. In post marketing experience, cases of injection site necrosis have been reported (see Section 4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects)). Patients should be instructed in the technique and importance of proper syringe and needle disposal and be cautioned against re-use of these items.

Use in the elderly.

Clinical studies of Avonex did not include sufficient numbers of patients aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently than younger patients.

Paediatric use.

No formal clinical trials or pharmacokinetic studies of Avonex have been conducted in children or adolescents. However, limited published data suggest that the safety profile in adolescents from 12 to 18 years of age receiving Avonex 30 microgram IM once per week is similar to that seen in adults. There is no information on the use of Avonex in children under 12 years of age.

Effects on laboratory tests.

No data available.

4.5 Interactions with Other Medicines and Other Forms of Interactions

Clinical trial experience indicates that patients with MS can receive concomitant therapy with Avonex and corticosteroid or ACTH treatment. Antidepressant and oral contraceptive therapy were co-administered in the clinical trial with no increase in adverse effects.
No specific information exists on interactions with other medications. Other interferons have been noted to reduce cytochrome P-450 oxidase mediated drug metabolism. Hepatic microsomes isolated from interferon beta-1a treated rhesus monkeys showed no influence of Avonex on hepatic cytochrome P-450 metabolism activity. Adequate data in humans are not available to determine the effect of Avonex on liver metabolism. As with other beta-interferon products, caution should be exercised when Avonex is administered alone or concomitantly with drugs known to be associated with hepatic injury. Caution should be exercised when Avonex is administered in combination with medicinal products that have a narrow therapeutic index and are largely dependent on the hepatic cytochrome P-450 system for clearance, e.g. antiepileptics and some classes of antidepressants.
As with all interferon products, proper monitoring of patients is required if Avonex is given in combination with myelosuppressive agents.

4.6 Fertility, Pregnancy and Lactation

Effects on fertility.

Menstrual cycle irregularities and associated progesterone concentration changes were observed in rhesus monkeys given doses of 50 microgram (10 million IU)/kg SC of interferon beta-1a. These cycles were considered anovulatory. These changes were not seen at doses of 1.25 microgram (0.25 million IU)/kg. The significance for humans is unknown. The effect of interferon beta-1a on male fertility is unknown.
(Category D)
Interferon beta-1a was not teratogenic in rhesus monkeys at doses up to 50 microgram (10 million IU)/kg SC. Abortifacient activity was evident at this dose but not at 1.25 microgram (0.25 million IU)/kg. Patients should be advised of the abortifacient potential of interferon beta observed in animal studies.
There is limited information on the use of Avonex in pregnancy. In a pregnancy registry, 302 pregnant MS patients exposed to Avonex, primarily during the first trimester (mean exposure 5.2 weeks) were followed prospectively. Exposure to Avonex did not increase the rate of spontaneous abortion or alter the pattern of defects compared to the general population. Due to the limitations of the study and absence of comparator MS population data the significance of the observed spontaneous abortion rate is unclear.
Initiation of treatment is contraindicated during pregnancy (see Section 4.3 Contraindications). Women of child-bearing potential should take appropriate contraceptive measures during treatment with Avonex. If a patient becomes pregnant or plans to become pregnant while taking Avonex, the patient should be informed of the potential hazards to the foetus and it should be recommended that the patient discontinue therapy, unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the foetus.
It is not known whether interferon beta-1a is excreted in human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue breast-feeding or Avonex therapy.

4.7 Effects on Ability to Drive and Use Machines

No studies on the effects on the ability to drive and use machines have been performed.

4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects)

Reporting suspected adverse effects.

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after registration of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit-risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions at www.tga.gov.au/reporting-problems.

Clinical trial data.

The safety data for the use of intramuscular Avonex are based on the studies described under Clinical trials. The most common adverse event associated with the use of Avonex was flu-like symptoms occurring within hours to days following an injection and consisting mainly of myalgia, fever, chills and asthenia. The incidence of these effects diminished with continued treatment, with only 16% of interferon beta-1a treated patients being affected in the last 6 months of Study NS26321.
Most adverse events were self-limiting and well tolerated. The most frequently reported adverse reactions resulting in discontinuation or the need for medication were flu-like symptoms and depression.
The data in Table 2 are derived from subjects treated with Avonex 30 microgram or placebo in Studies NS26321 and C95-812. Included are adverse events and selected laboratory abnormalities that occurred at an incidence of at least 2% higher frequency in the Avonex-treated subjects than in the placebo group. Reported adverse events have been classified using standard COSTART terms.
Other adverse events reported for relapsing MS patients treated with Avonex 30 microgram IM once weekly in clinical trials including open label studies, are shown in Table 3 with frequencies expressed per 100 patient years.
One patient in the open label study attempted suicide. In the placebo-controlled trials, one patient on placebo attempted suicide, but none in the interferon beta-1a treated groups. The incidence of depression was 9% in each group in Study NS26321. In Study C95-812, 20% of subjects treated with Avonex experienced depression compared with 13% on placebo.
Four patients receiving Avonex 30 microgram IM once weekly in the placebo-controlled studies experienced seizures (1%), whilst no seizures occurred in the placebo groups. Three of these patients had no prior history of seizures. It is not known whether these events were related to MS, to Avonex or to a combination of both (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use).
The side effect and tolerability profile was similar in relapsing MS patients treated with 30 microgram or 60 microgram of Avonex.
Safety data have also been generated on interferon beta-1a in patients with hepatitis given 15 microgram to 75 microgram (3 to 15 million IU) subcutaneously 3 times weekly for up to 6 months. In the patients with hepatitis, the most common adverse event was injection site inflammation (52%), reflecting the relationship between subcutaneous injection and such reactions. In other respects, the incidence of adverse events was similar to those seen in the patients with MS. In study C-94-801, 382 patients with relapsing-remitting MS were treated with open-label Avonex 30 microgram IM once weekly for up to 6 years; 275 of these patients were treated for 5.5 years or more. Adverse events were similar to those seen in other trials. The prevalence of most adverse events decreased over successive years. Noteworthy exceptions to this trend were:
The frequency of depression and urinary tract infection remained relatively unchanged throughout the trial.
The frequency of pharyngitis decreased over the first 5 years, then increased in the final 6 months of follow-up to return to the level reported during the first year of treatment. The role of Avonex in this finding is unknown.
Hypertension was reported in 1% of patients during the first year of treatment, then became progressively more common over successive years, to be reported in 6-7% of patients during the final 2 years of treatment.

Post-marketing data.

Suspected adverse reactions reported in post-marketing experience that are not already included under "Clinical trial data" are shown in Table 4.

Serum neutralising activity.

In the pivotal (NS26321) placebo-controlled MS study with product BG9015, fifteen percent of treated patients had serum neutralising activity levels above those found in the placebo group. There was no correlation between the presence of serum neutralising activity and progression in disability or the frequency of adverse events, most likely due to the relatively small number of subjects studied who developed neutralising antibodies.
Improvements in the manufacturing process following this study have resulted in a less immunogenic molecule. This has been demonstrated in subsequent studies in which Avonex, the commercially available formulation, had a neutralising antibody incidence of 2-5%.
In the dose comparison study (C94-805) in patients with relapsing MS who only received commercial product BG9418, the incidence of serum neutralising activity was 2.3% and 5.8% (titre ≥ 20) for the 30 microgram and 60 microgram treatment groups, respectively.
In the open label study C94-801, 5% of patients developed serum neutralising activity at a titre of ≥ 20.
In patients who had experienced one demyelinating event and were at risk of developing MS based on the presence of characteristic brain MRI abnormalities (Study C95-812), 2% of treated patients, all of whom had received only commercial product BG9418, developed serum neutralising activity at a titre of ≥ 20.
In the open-label study to evaluate the immunogenicity and safety of Avonex solution for injection (C98-844), 4% of patients had serum neutralising antibodies at a titre of ≥ 20. In patients with secondary progressive MS (Study C97-830), 3.3% of treated patients, all of whom received only commercial product BG9418, developed serum neutralising activity at a titre of ≥ 20.
In the dose comparison study of 30 microgram Avonex versus 60 microgram Avonex in 802 subjects with relapsing-progressive and relapsing-remitting MS (C94-805), it was demonstrated that the development of neutralising antibodies resulted in a decrease in clinical efficacy. The neutralising antibody positive (NAb +ve) patient group had an annual relapse rate 39% (95% CI: 0.8%-91%) higher than the neutralising antibody negative group (0.97 vs 0.70, p=0.04) during months 12-48. The rate of change in mean EDSS was also higher in the NAb +ve group (p=0.01) indicating greater disability progression in this group. Data from the study also show, in the NAb +ve group, a greater change in the number of (Gd)-enhancing lesions on MRI at month 24 (p=0.02) and T2 lesions on MRI at months 24 (p=0.05) and 36 (p=0.09).
The Consortium of MS Centres concluded that the clinical sequelae of antibody-mediated decreased bioactivity depend on the duration and severity of decreased bioactivity and the underlying activity of the patient's MS. Thus, the persistence of high levels of anti-interferon beta antibodies in patients with active MS will eventually lead to clinical evidence of loss of efficacy of interferon beta.

4.9 Overdose

For information on the management of overdose, contact the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 (Australia).
There are no reports of overdosage. In cases of suspected overdosage, patients should be admitted to hospital for observation and given appropriate supportive treatment.

5 Pharmacological Properties

5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties

Mechanism of action.

Interferons are a family of naturally occurring proteins and glycoproteins that are produced by eukaryotic cells in response to viral infection and other biological inducers. Interferon beta, one member of this family, is produced by various cell types including fibroblasts and macrophages. Natural interferon beta and interferon beta-1a (rch) are glycosylated, with each containing a single N-linked complex carbohydrate moiety. Glycosylation of other proteins is known to affect their stability, activity, biodistribution and half-life in blood. However, the effects of glycosylation on interferon beta have not been fully defined.
Interferons are cytokines that mediate antiviral, antiproliferative and immunomodulatory activities in response to viral infection and other biological inducers. Three major interferons have been distinguished: alpha, beta and gamma. Interferons alpha and beta form the Type I class of interferons, whilst interferon gamma is a Type II interferon. These interferons have overlapping but clearly distinct biological activities.
Interferon beta-1a exerts its biological effects by binding to specific receptors on the surface of human cells. This binding initiates a complex cascade of intracellular events that lead to the expression of numerous interferon-induced gene products and markers. These include 2'/5'-oligoadenylate synthetase, β2-microglobulin and neopterin. These products have been measured in the serum and cellular fractions of blood collected from patients treated with interferon beta-1a.
The specific interferon-induced proteins and mechanisms by which Avonex exerts its effects in multiple sclerosis have not been fully defined.

Clinical trials.

Study NS26321.

The clinical effects of interferon beta-1a were studied in a randomised, multicentre, double blind, placebo-controlled study in male and female patients with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). In this study, 301 patients received either 30 microgram (6 million IU) of pilot scale interferon beta-1a (n=158) or placebo (n=143) by IM injection once weekly. Of the 301 patients, 282 completed 1 year on study and 172 completed 2 years on study. There were 144 patients treated with interferon beta-1a for more than 1 year, 115 for more than 18 months and 82 for 2 years.
As measured by the Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) in the clinical trial, progression of disability was significantly reduced with interferon beta-1a treatment (see Figure 1). Interferon beta-1a reduced the risk of progression of disability by 37%. Over 2 years, a 32% reduction in the annual exacerbation rate was also demonstrated; no significant difference in exacerbation rate was seen in the first year of treatment. The clinical trial also showed a reduction in the number and volume of active brain lesions as shown by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Together with the clinical benefits, there was a significant decrease in MS activity markers such as those shown by MRI.
This trial was conducted using a product (BG9015) derived from a cell line which differs from the cell line used to derive the commercially available Avonex (BG9418), but it is likely that these two products have similar clinical mechanisms and activity.

Study C94-801.

Patients from Study NS26321 were eligible to enrol in an open-label safety extension trial. This study also enrolled interferon beta naïve and interferon beta experienced patients with MS. All patients received 30 microgram Avonex by IM injection once weekly.

Study C94-805.

The clinical effects of Avonex were studied in a randomised, multicentre, double-blind, dose-comparison study in male and female patients with relapsing-progressive and relapsing-remitting MS. In this study patients received either 30 microgram or 60 microgram of Avonex (n=402 and n=400, respectively) by IM injection once weekly. Of the 802 patients, 765, 707 and 634 completed 1, 2 and 3 years on study, respectively. Of the 802 subjects with relapsing MS who participated in this study, 85% presented with relapsing-remitting MS and 15% presented with relapsing-progressive MS.
As measured by the Kurtzke EDSS, there was no statistically significant difference in the rate of sustained disability progression between the 30 microgram and 60 microgram Avonex treatment groups. The proportion of patients with progression of disability at 2 years (estimated by the Kaplan-Meier methodology) was 29% and 28% for the 30 microgram and 60 microgram groups, respectively, and the estimated 3 year progression rate was 37% for both groups. There was no difference in MRI efficacy between the 30 microgram and 60 microgram treatment groups. The MRI results confirm the clinical findings, i.e. there is no meaningful difference between patients treated with either 30 microgram or 60 microgram Avonex.
For the small subgroup of patients with relapsing-progressive disease and greater disability at baseline (EDSS ≥ 5), there appeared to be a dose effect, with 25 recipients of the 60 microgram dose showing significantly less progression, on average, than 25 recipients of the 30 microgram dose. This observation was based on a small post hoc subgroup analysis and needs to be confirmed with additional studies but it suggests that patients with more advanced disease might benefit from higher doses.

Study C95-812.

The clinical effects of Avonex have also been studied in patients who had experienced one demyelinating event and were at risk of developing MS based on the presence of brain MRI abnormalities characteristic of MS. In a randomised multi-centre, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, patients received either 30 microgram Avonex (n=193) or placebo (n=190) by IM injection once weekly for up to 3 years. The initial demyelinating event was treated with a course of IV corticosteroids followed by oral corticosteroids.
Time to onset of clinically definite MS was significantly longer in patients treated with Avonex (p=0.002). At 2 years, the estimated rate of onset of clinically definite MS was 21.1% and 38.6% for Avonex and placebo, respectively. Avonex produced an overall reduction in the rate of development of clinically definite MS of 44% (95% CI, 19%-62%) (see Figure 2). The clinical trial also showed a reduction in inflammatory disease activity in brain (measured gadolinium (Gd) enhancement) and reduction in brain lesions and disease burden (measured by T2) shown by MRI. At all time points (6, 12 and 18 months), compared to placebo, Avonex significantly reduced the number of new or enlarging T2 lesions (p=0.01, p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively), the volume of T2 lesions (p < 0.001, p=0.004 and p < 0.001, respectively), the number of (Gd)-enhancing lesions (p=0.03, p=0.02 and p < 0.001, respectively) and the volume of (Gd)-enhancing lesions (p=0.03, p=0.03 and p < 0.001, respectively).

Study C97-830.

The clinical effects of Avonex were studied in a randomised, multicentre, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study in male and female patients with secondary progressive MS. Patients received either 60 microgram Avonex (n=217) or placebo (n=219) by IM injection once weekly for 2 years. The study utilised a composite outcome measure of disease progression, the Multiple Sclerosis Functional Composite (MSFC), consisting of a Timed 25-Foot Walk, a Nine Hole Peg Test and a Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test. In the Avonex group, compared to the placebo group, disease progression was reduced by approximately 27% (based on the mean MSFC scores) or 40% (based on the median MSFC scores). Sustained progression when measured by the Kurtzke EDSS was similar (p=0.901) for patients receiving Avonex (32%) or placebo (37%). The annual relapse rate (p=0.008) and rate of IV steroid use (p=0.03) was reduced for the Avonex group compared to the placebo group; quality of life scales were favourable and 8 of 11 scales were statistically significant. The clinical trial showed a reduction in inflammatory disease activity in brain and reduction in brain lesions and disease burden shown by MRI.
The study was not designed to assess the effect of treatment in secondary progressive MS patients according to the presence or absence of recent relapses. Nonetheless, the treatment effect was strongest, and approached statistical significance (p=0.074), in subjects who had experienced a relapse in the previous year. In this subgroup, active treatment reduced disease progression by 44% (based on the mean MSFC scores) or 59% (based on median MSFC scores). In subjects who had not had a clinical relapse in the previous year, however, active treatment reduced disease progression by only 9.5% (based on the mean MSFC scores) or 27% (based on median MSFC scores), an effect that did not approach statistical significance (p=0.206). This suggests that patients who have had recent relapses are the ones who most stand to benefit from Avonex therapy.

Study 108HV103.

The effect of titrating Avonex on the severity and incidence of flu-like symptoms was investigated in a randomised, dose-blinded, study in healthy volunteers (see Table 5). Titration was achieved by ¼ dose increments every week. All subjects received paracetamol within 1 hour, at 4 to 6 hours, 8 to 10 hours and 12 to 15 hours post-injection. The effects of titration were observed from the first week and were sustained over the 8 weeks of the study.
Delivery of Avonex via the Avonex Pen has been assessed in a clinical trial (108MS302).

5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties

In volunteers, serum interferon beta-1a activity levels are only slightly above detectable limits following a 30 microgram (6 million IU) intramuscular dose. However, following an intramuscular (IM) dose of 75 microgram (15 million IU), the area under the curve was 11.21 nanogram (2242 IU) hr/mL in healthy volunteers (n = 29). The maximum concentration when 75 microgram (15 million IU) was given intramuscularly was 0.4 nanogram (80 IU)/mL 13 hours after the dose. The serum half-life following IM administration is approximately 10 hours.
The biological effects of Avonex are sustained beyond the period in which levels are measurable in blood. Biological response markers (e.g. neopterin and β2-microglobulin) increase within 12 hours of dosing and remain elevated for at least 4 days. Peak biological response markers are typically observed 48 hours after dosing.

5.3 Preclinical Safety Data

Genotoxicity.

Interferon beta-1a was not genotoxic when tested in in vitro assays for gene mutations and chromosomal damage.

Carcinogenicity.

The carcinogenic potential of interferon beta-1a has not been investigated in animals or humans.

6 Pharmaceutical Particulars

6.1 List of Excipients

See Section 2 Qualitative and Quantitative Composition.

6.2 Incompatibilities

Incompatibilities were either not assessed or not identified as part of the registration of this medicine.

6.3 Shelf Life

In Australia, information on the shelf life can be found on the public summary of the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). The expiry date can be found on the packaging.

Pre-filled syringe.

36 months stored at 2°-8°C (Refrigerate, Do not freeze). Protect from light. May include one week at or below 30°C.

Pen.

36 months stored at 2°-8°C (Refrigerate, Do not freeze). Protect from light. May include one week at or below 30°C.

6.4 Special Precautions for Storage

Contains no antimicrobial agent. Product is for single use in one patient only. Discard any residue.
Avonex pre-filled syringe, (solution for injection) and Avonex Pen, (solution for injection) should be stored in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C. Protect from light. Do not freeze. Each blister tray or individual carton of Avonex can be stored at room temperature (below 30°C) for up to seven days. In order to protect from light, keep Avonex in the original sealed tray or individual carton until required. It should not be used after the expiry date on the package or the pre-filled pen.

6.5 Nature and Contents of Container

Avonex pre-filled syringe (solution for injection) is supplied in a single use pre-filled syringe containing 30 microgram (6 million IU)/0.5 mL of interferon beta-1a. It is available in packs of 4 blister trays. Each blister tray contains one pre-filled syringe of Avonex and one needle used for IM administration.
Avonex Pen (solution for injection) is supplied as a single use pre-filled pen containing 30 microgram (6 million IU)/0.5 mL of interferon beta-1a. It is available in packs of 4 individual cartons. Each individual carton contains one Avonex pre-filled pen, one 16 mm, 25 gauge needle and an Avonex Pen cover.
Not all presentations are being distributed in Australia.

6.6 Special Precautions for Disposal

In Australia, any unused medicine or waste material should be disposed of by taking to your local pharmacy.

6.7 Physicochemical Properties

Chemical structure.

Interferon beta-1a is a 166 amino acid glycoprotein with a specific activity of approximately 200 million international units (IU) of antiviral activity per mg. It has a predicted molecular weight of approximately 22,500 Daltons and is produced by mammalian (Chinese Hamster Ovary) cells into which the human interferon beta gene has been introduced. The amino acid sequence of Avonex is identical to that of natural human interferon beta.

CAS number.

The CAS Registry Number is 194739-10-1.

7 Medicine Schedule (Poisons Standard)

Schedule 4 - Prescription Only Medicine.

Summary Table of Changes