33. HOW DOES AVONEX WORK AGAIN??
• Manufactured from naturally occurring proteins
(endogenous)
• These proteins are manufactured when the body
encounters say, a virus
• Controls the immune system
• Therefore helps to decrease exacerbations of
MS
34. PLEGRIDY: WHAT’S THE SCOOP !
• Basically twice a month Avonex
• Pre- filled syringes
• must titrate up
• Subcutaneous not IM
• A polyethylene glycol is attached to the inteferron
molecules that allow them to remain in the body for a
longer period of time
• Dose is 125 mcg every 2 weeks
This medication is manufactured by a biotechnological process from one of the naturally-occurring interferons (a type of protein). It is made up of exactly the same amino acids (major components of proteins) as the interferon beta found in the Avonex is an interferon, a family of glycoproteins produced naturally in the body in response to viral infection or invasion of the body by another biologic agent. Avonex, produced through a biotechnological process using mammalian cells containing naturally occurring interferon, contains all of the same basic components as the interferon beta occurring naturally in the human body.
The exact process by which Avonex and other interferon beta drugs work to reduce the frequency of exacerbations and slow the progression of disability in MS is unknown. However, as interferons play an important role in controlling immune system activities, Avonex may use its ability (as an interferon) to control the abnormal immune response that appears to be involved in MS. When Avonex is given to a person, levels of an immune system protein called interleukin-10 (IL-10) are increased. IL-10 is an anti-inflammatory cytokine that helps to stop or inhibit inflammation.
human body.
Cost similar to the 59,000 annual avonex cost
Two year phase three 1500 people met its goal of reducing relapse rate
Pegylated interferon beta-1a is a “pegylated" form of interferon, meaning that polyethylene glycol is attached to the interferon molecules to allow them to maintain their biologic effects in the body for longer periods of time. Because the biologic effects in the body last longer, dosing can occur at less frequent intervals.
This medication is manufactured by a biotechnological process from one of the naturally-occurring interferons (a type of protein). It is made up of exactly the same amino acids (major components of proteins) as the interferon beta found in the human body.
A glycerin suppository is a hyperosmotic laxative that draws water into the bowel from surrounding body tissues. This water helps to soften the stool mass and promote bowel action.
Proper Usage
Laxatives are to be used to provide short-term relief only, unless otherwise directed by the nurse or physician who is helping you to manage your bowel symptoms. A regimen that includes a healthy diet containing roughage (whole grain breads and cereals, bran, fruit, and green, leafy vegetables), six to eight full glasses of liquids each day, and some form of daily exercise is most important in stimulating healthy bowel function.
If your physician has recommended this laxative for management of constipation, follow his or her recommendations for its use. If you are treating yourself for constipation, follow the directions on the package insert.
If the suppository is too soft to insert, refrigerate it for thirty minutes or hold it under cold water before removing the foil wrapper.
Glycerin suppositories often produce results within fifteen minutes to one hour. Be sure to consult your physician if you experience problems or do not get relief within a week.
Precautions
Do not take any type of laxative if you have signs of appendicitis or inflamed bowel (e.g., stomach or lower abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, soreness, nausea or vomiting). Check with your physician as soon as possible.
body.