Interferon beta-1b
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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Interferon beta-1b
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| Systematic (IUPAC) name | |
| Human interferon beta | |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS number | |
| ATC code | L03 |
| PubChem | ? |
| DrugBank | |
| Chemical data | |
| Formula | C908H1408N246O253S6 |
| Mol. mass | 20011.0 g/mol |
| Pharmacokinetic data | |
| Bioavailability | ? |
| Metabolism | ? |
| Half life | ? |
| Excretion | ? |
| Therapeutic considerations | |
| Pregnancy cat. |
? |
| Legal status | |
| Routes | ? |
Interferon beta-1b (marketed as Betaseron) is a drug in the interferon family used to treat multiple sclerosis. It is administered by sub-cutaneous injection and has been shown to slow the advance of the affliction as well as reduce the frequency of attacks. Betaseron is manufactured by Berlex Corporation.
It is believed that Interferon-Beta based drugs achieve their beneficial effect on MS progress via their anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have also determined that Interferon-Beta improves the integrity of the blood-brain barrier (BBB)—which generally breaks down in MS patients, allowing increasing amounts of undesirable substances to reach the brain. This strengthening of the BBB may be a contributing factor to Interferon-Beta's beneficial effects. These studies were carried out in vitro, so it does not necessarily mean it works the same in people.
Closely related is Interferon beta-1a, also indicated for multiple sclerosis, and with a very similar drug profile.
Betaseron costs approximately US$1750 for 0.3 mg solution, or equivalent to 15 vials. [1]
[edit] See also
[edit] External links
- betaseron.com
- Berlex
- National MS Society (USA)
- ThisIsMS - an MS community website
