Ask a Neurologist
14.02.2009 - BETAFERON DOSING RISK / IMPLICATIONS
- Question:
Hi there
Betaferon treatment (0.5ml every alternate day) commenced mid-Nov ’08.
I have unfortunately been very ill for the past 4 years, and also required an emergency appendicectomy begin Dec ’08.
Post-surgery, there were many complications, including allergic reactions to the stitches, a lesion and fluid on my lungs as well as an emergency blood transfusion. (I also suffer from Hypothyroid and Thallassaemia Minor, so am anaemic too).
The Betaferon (dosing then at 0.75) was halted as the medical team were unsure of contributing factors. I have now re-commenced therapy at a dose of 0.5, to be titrated up over the next month (or longer if required).I do however, also have fast liver phases, and have thus wondered what the risks and implications would be IF I were (whilst at the low 0.5 dose and getting accustomed to side effects) to DOSE EVERY DAY for a few days (to establish if all is still in order) and then possibly continue on this schedule for a month??
I understand that available research may not cover this query (which may well be contentious) but I thought to ask anyway, as I fully accept that I am still 100% accountable for my actions. Logically this seems feasible, though any advice would be greatly appreciated - Thank you!!
- Reply:
I would suggest to continue on 0.5 ml (50%) on Betainterferon every other day. Slowly increase the dose (0.75 ml) in April and back to the full dose of 1.0 ml in May. Your blood count and liver function should be monitored regularly, and changes need to be discuss with your treating physicians.
- Consultant:
- The MS-Gateway Consultation Team