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Avonex Interferon Beta-1a 30 ug/.5mL Injection, Solution, 1 syringe — NDC 59627-0002-06 package photo

Avonex Interferon Beta-1a 30 ug/.5mL Injection, Solution, 1 syringe

by Biogen Inc. · 1 TRAY in 1 CARTON (59627-002-06) / 1 SYRINGE in 1 TRAY (59627-002-07) / .5 mL in 1 SYRINGE
NDC 59627-0002-06
🏷️ FDA NDC (as labeled) 59627-002-06 billing pads the product segment with a zero
Rx only Brand On market Non-controlled
🗂️ Data synced Jul 24, 2026 · sources: openFDA · FDA label (DailyMed) · FDA Orange & Purple Book · First Databank · CMS NADAC, ASP, Medicare & Medicaid · RxNorm
📋 All sources & update times →

This page is curated, coded, and maintained by

Compiled from public FDA, CMS, DailyMed, NADAC, and related drug data sources. Editorial policy

🆔 Identity & classification

FDA NDC (as labeled) 59627-002-06
Product NDC 59627-002
11-digit billing NDC 59627000206
NCPDP billing unit ML — per mL (volume)
RxCUI 727813, 727816, 797544, 1650899, 1650901
UNII XRO4566Q4R
UPC 0359627002066
Application # BLA103628
SPL Set ID d70a39cc-de15-4c12-a1ec-8063b69ea0e1
Established class (EPC) Interferon beta
Chemical class Interferon-beta
DEA schedule Non-controlled
Marketing category BLA
Marketing status On market
FDA listing status Listed (active directory)
Marketing start 2003-05-23
Route INTRAMUSCULAR
Dosage form INJECTION, SOLUTION
Substance INTERFERON BETA-1A
GCN Seq No 053430
GCN 20908
HICL code 011253
Ingredient (HICL) Interferon Beta-1A
HIC1 code H
Therapeutic class — broad (HIC1) Nervous System (Except Autonomic)
HIC2 code H0
Therapeutic class — intermediate (HIC2) Act On Non-Autonomic Nervous System
HIC3 code H0E
Therapeutic class — specific (HIC3) Agents To Treat Multiple Sclerosis
AHFS code 90:04.12.00
AHFS class Interferons
FDB label name AVONEX 30 MCG/0.5 ML SYRINGE
FDB brand name Avonex
Legend status F — Federal legend — prescription drug or device
Biologic (Purple Book) 351(a)
Why two NDCs? The FDA registers this code as 59627-002-06 — a 5-3-2 layout, and that's what's printed on the package and shown on DailyMed. For insurance claims, every NDC is standardized to a uniform 11-digit 5-4-2 format by adding a zero to the product segment → 59627-0002-06. Same drug, same package — only the format differs.
Where does this data come from?
Identifiers from the FDA openFDA NDC Directory and Structured Product Labeling; RxCUI from RxNorm (NLM); GPI from Medi-Span; GCN / HIC / AHFS / legend from First Databank.

🏷️ RxNorm drug class

This medicine belongs to the Interferon beta class.

Pharmacologic class Interferon beta
Drug family (ATC) Interferons
Where does this data come from?
Therapeutic classes from RxNorm RxClass (U.S. National Library of Medicine) — Established Pharmacologic Class (FDA), ATC drug family (WHO) and mechanism of action, matched by this product’s RxCUI.

🏭 Manufacturer & labeler

LabelerBiogen Inc.
FDA applicationBLA103628 (BLA)
Labeler code59627
First marketedMay 2003
Product typeHuman Prescription Drug
Portfolio47 products on file
The labeler markets the product; the application holder owns the FDA approval. They’re often the same company but can differ (e.g. a repackager or an authorized generic). A mailing address / phone appears here when the manufacturer includes it in the product’s FDA label (not all do).
Where does this data come from?
Labeler, application holder and registered establishment from the FDA openFDA NDC Directory and Drugs@FDA; address/contact from the product’s FDA label.

🩺 Clinical

Label name AVONEX 30 MCG/0.5 ML SYRINGE Ingredient Interferon Beta-1A
📖 What it is MedlinePlus · NLM

Interferon beta-1a intramuscular injection is used to treat adults with various forms of multiple sclerosis (MS; a disease in which the nerves do not function properly and people may experience weakness, numbness, loss of muscle coordination, and problems with vision, speech, and bladder control) including: clinically isolated syndrome (CIS; nerve symptom episodes that last at least 24 hours), relapsing-remitting forms (course of disease where symptoms flare up from time to time), or secondary progressive forms (course of disease where relapses occur more often). Interferon beta-1a is in a...

Read the full MedlinePlus article ↗
Where does this data come from?
Plain-language summary from MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine); supplement & herbal interactions and nutrient depletion data from the Natural Medicines database; our full guide is HelloPharmacist editorial content.

🧪 Inactive Ingredients / Excipients

Inactive ingredients, also called excipients, are components of the drug product other than the active ingredient. They may include fillers, dyes, coatings, preservatives, flavors, or other formulation ingredients.

💡 Tap an ingredient (hover on desktop) to see what it is and why it’s used.

  • 0.25 mg / 0.5 mL UNII Q40Q9N063P
    Acetic acid is a weak organic acid commonly used in medicines as a buffer and pH adjuster. It helps maintain the proper acidity level to ensure the drug remains stable and effective in its formulation.
  • 15.8 mg / 0.5 mL UNII F7LTH1E20Y
    Arginine hydrochloride is an amino acid salt used as a buffer and pH adjuster in medicines. It helps maintain the correct acidity level to keep the drug stable and effective.
  • 0.025 mg / 0.5 mL UNII 7T1F30V5YH
    A synthetic emulsifier derived from sorbitol and oleic acid. It helps mix oil and water-based ingredients together and keeps them from separating in liquid formulations.
  • 0.79 mg / 0.5 mL UNII 4550K0SC9B
    Sodium acetate is a salt derived from acetic acid. It acts as a buffer to help maintain the medicine's pH stability and may serve as a preservative or solubilizer in liquid formulations.
  • UNII 059QF0KO0R
    Water is a liquid solvent that dissolves and mixes ingredients together in liquid medicines, syrups, and injections. It helps distribute the active drug evenly throughout the product.

5 inactive ingredients listed in the exact product block matched to this NDC.

Where does this data come from?
Data sourced from official FDA Structured Product Labeling (SPL) via DailyMed — ingredient classCode="IACT" elements from the exact product block matched by this NDC. Label-section narrative from DailyMed / the openFDA label index is shown separately when available.

Inactive ingredient FAQ

Are inactive ingredients the same for every manufacturer?
No. Inactive ingredients can differ by manufacturer, dosage form, strength, and package / product version.
Why might an inactive ingredient be missing?
Some SPLs do not provide a complete structured inactive-ingredient list, and older or unusual labels may only include the information in narrative text.
Can inactive ingredients matter?
Yes. They can matter for allergies, intolerances, dyes, gluten / lactose concerns, preservatives, and formulation differences — but confirm with a pharmacist or the manufacturer when it’s clinically important.

💲 Pricing

A drug doesn't have one price. Each row is a different public payment system, and none is what you'd pay at the counter — that depends on your insurance. The ⓘ on each row explains what it measures.

Price systemPer mLPer package
Retail pharmacies payNADAC · weekly Not in the retail survey — common for institutional, discontinued, or low-volume packs.
Medicaid paysCMS SDUD · 12 mo No recent Medicaid claims on file for this NDC — rare and low-volume NDCs are suppressed in the public data.
Medicare drug plans payPart D · Q2 2026 $8,802.42 $4,401.21 / 0.5 ml
Where does this data come from?
NADAC (National Average Drug Acquisition Cost) is the CMS weekly pharmacy-acquisition-cost survey — what pharmacies pay. ASP (Average Sales Price) is the CMS Medicare Part B drug-payment file, published quarterly. Medicaid pays is computed by us from CMS State Drug Utilization Data (total reimbursed ÷ units, trailing 12 months) — gross of rebates and inclusive of dispensing fees, so it reflects what Medicaid paid, not an acquisition cost. Medicare drug plans pay is the median negotiated point-of-sale unit cost across plans listing this NDC in the CMS quarterly Prescription Drug Plan pricing files, before rebates. The VA pays is the federal contract price (FSS, and the statutory Big 4 ceiling where listed) from the VA National Acquisition Center pharmaceutical price file. All are free public government data; each measures a different payer, so the figures are not directly comparable.

🔁 Therapeutic equivalents

ProductLabelerPackNADAC/unitTEStatusPrice vs. this
Avonex 59627-0222-05 Biogen 1 kit $8,777.980 — Availability likely —
Avonex 30 ug/.5mLthis 59627-0002-06 Biogen 1 syringe — — FDA listed —
Avonex Pen 30 ug/.5mL 59627-0003-01 Biogen 1 syringe — — FDA listed —
About this product: this is a biologic. Biologics don't have small-molecule generics — competition comes from FDA-licensed biosimilars (shown above), not generics.
Where does this data come from?
Equivalents are other NDCs of the same ingredient, form and route from the openFDA NDC Directory, ranked least-expensive-first by NADAC. Therapeutic-equivalence (AB) ratings come from the FDA Orange Book; biologics use the FDA Purple Book for biosimilar & interchangeable status.

⏳ Availability & biosimilar status

🏛️
1996
First FDA approval
May 1996
📍
2026
Currently FDA-listed
30 years listed
🧬
·
Biosimilars
see Purple Book
🧬Biologic — competition comes from biosimilars

Biologics have no small-molecule generics; biosimilar competition is tracked in the FDA Purple Book.

FDA Purple Book — biosimilars & interchangeables ⓘ
Reference product
Avonexinterferon beta-1a Rebifinterferon beta-1a
🔒 No FDA-licensed biosimilars or interchangeable biosimilars are listed yet for this biologic. It currently has no biosimilar competition in the FDA Purple Book.
Source: FDA Purple Book (purplebooksearch.fda.gov), matched on the reference product’s active ingredient.
Where does this data come from?
Patents and exclusivity from the FDA Purple Book (biologics), refreshed from public FDA data. Biosimilar launch timing is an estimate, not a guarantee.

📊 Medicare Part D spend CMS · PART D · 2026 (Q1)

Medicare Part D (outpatient prescription) spending for Avonex Pen (4 Pack) (matched by generic name) — the program that covers self-administered drugs. 1 manufacturer.
⚠️ Drug-level data: CMS publishes Part D spending by drug, not by NDC — these figures combine every manufacturer, strength and package size sold under the name Avonex Pen (4 Pack). CMS lists 2 products for this generic; we show the highest-spend one. That’s a different level of aggregation than the Medicaid card above, which is specific to this exact 11-digit NDC (pack size included), so the two aren’t directly comparable.
Period
Total Part D spend
$50.67M
Claims incl. refills
4.9K
Beneficiaries
2K
Spend / beneficiary
$25,372.80
Spend / claim
$10,277.79
Trend by period
💵 About the dollar figures: spending is what Part D plans paid before confidential manufacturer rebates, so the program’s real net cost is lower. A blank patient count means fewer than 11 people — CMS hides counts that small to protect privacy. Source: CMS Medicare Quarterly Part D Spending by Drug (data.cms.gov), updated quarterly.

📦 Packaging — all sizes for this product

Package NDCDescription Marketing startStatus
59627-0002-06 You're viewing this 1 TRAY in 1 CARTON (59627-002-06) / 1 SYRINGE in 1 TRAY (59627-002-07) / .5 mL in 1 SYRINGE 2003-05-23 Active

🧭 About this NDC listing & data coverage

Finished prescription product
What data is (and isn’t) available for this NDC — tap to expand
NDC identity (package / product / labeler codes) ✓ Available
Labeler ✓ Available
Product & package description ✓ Available
Marketing category & status ✓ Available
Active ingredient / dosage form / route ✓ Available
FDA label (SPL via DailyMed) ✓ Available
Package photos ✓ Available
Inactive ingredients (structured) ✓ Available
NADAC pharmacy acquisition price (CMS) — Not published for this NDC CMS publishes NADAC only for NDCs reported in its retail-pharmacy survey.
Orange Book / therapeutic-equivalence data — Not published for this NDC Applies only to products approved under an NDA/ANDA; many listings are out of scope.
HCPCS J-code billing crosswalk — Not published for this NDC Most self-administered / retail products have no J-code — that is normal.
Medicaid utilization (CMS SDUD) — Not published for this NDC CMS reports utilization only for NDCs with Medicaid claims above its privacy threshold.
“Not published” reflects what the public FDA / CMS / NLM sources provide for this exact package code — it is a property of the data feeds, not a judgment about the product.

Questions about this listing

Why is there no price listed?
The pricing shown on our NDC pages comes from CMS NADAC, a voluntary survey of retail community pharmacy invoices. CMS does not publish a NADAC for every NDC — packages outside the retail survey (institutional and hospital products, bulk packages, discontinued items, and many OTC items) may never receive one. A missing price reflects the survey's scope, not this product's actual cost, and does not mean the product is free or unavailable.
Is the NDC printed on the package the same as the 11-digit billing NDC?
Yes, they identify this exact package in different formats. The FDA registers it as 59627-002-06, which is what is printed on the packaging and shown on DailyMed. Insurance claims use a fixed 11-digit 5-4-2 format, so the short segment is padded with a leading zero: 59627-0002-06, written without dashes as 59627000206. The Identity section at the top of this page lists every form of this code.
What do the three segments of this NDC mean?
In 59627-0002-06, the first segment (59627) is the labeler code FDA assigned to Biogen Inc.; the middle segment (0002) identifies this specific product — its ingredient, strength, and dosage form; and the last segment (06) identifies this exact package size and type. Together they name one specific package of one specific product.
Is this package still being marketed?
Yes, per the latest FDA NDC Directory data on this page: this package is listed as actively marketed, with no marketing end date reported by Biogen Inc.. Listing status can change — the directory data on this page refreshes weekly.
Who lists this product with the FDA?
Biogen Inc. is the labeler of record for this NDC — the company under whose FDA-assigned code the package is listed. The labeler may be the manufacturer itself or a distributor marketing the product under its own code.
Do I need a prescription for this product?
This NDC is listed with FDA as a prescription product, so it is dispensed under a prescriber's order. Your pharmacist can tell you whether any over-the-counter forms of the same medication exist.
This page identifies an FDA-listed package (the NDC) and reports public regulatory and pricing data about the listing. It is reference information, not a medical recommendation — talk to your pharmacist or prescriber about your own medication.
Where does this data come from?
Listing facts (marketing category, packager status, marketing dates) from the FDA openFDA NDC Directory; label availability from DailyMed; pricing coverage from CMS NADAC; equivalence scope from the FDA Orange Book.

📄 Full prescribing information FDA SPL

The complete FDA label for this product — the official prescribing information, verbatim, section by section. Jump with a chip, search within the label, or expand everything.
🎯 Indications and Usage ⏱️ Dosage and Administration 💊 Dosage Forms and Strengths ⛔ Contraindications ⚠️ Warnings and Cautions 🤒 Adverse Reactions 👥 Use in Specific Populations 🤰 Pregnancy 🧒 Pediatric Use 🧓 Geriatric Use 🧬 Clinical Pharmacology 🧬 Mechanism of Action 📦 How Supplied / Storage and Handling 📦 Storage and Handling 📋 Description 💬 Information for Patients 💬 Medication Guide
🎯 Indications and Usage 60 words ▾

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE AVONEX is indicated for the treatment of relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), to include clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting disease, and active secondary progressive disease, in adults. AVONEX is for the treatment of relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), to include clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting disease, and active secondary progressive disease, in adults. ( 1 )

⏱️ Dosage and Administration ~2 min read ▾

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION For intramuscular use only ( 2.1 ) Recommended dose: 30 micrograms once a week ( 2.1 ) AVONEX may be titrated, starting with 7.5 micrograms for first week, to reduce flu-like symptoms ( 2.1 ) Increase dose by 7.5 micrograms each week for next 3 weeks until recommended dose of 30 micrograms ( 2.1 ) See patient instructions for use for complete administration instructions ( 2.2 ) Perform first injection under the supervision of an appropriately qualified health care professional ( 2.2 ) Analgesics and/or antipyretics on treatment days may help ameliorate flu-like symptoms ( 2.3 )

2.1Dosing Information AVONEX is administered intramuscularly. The recommended dose is 30 micrograms once a week. To reduce the incidence and severity of flu-like symptoms that may occur when initiating AVONEX therapy at a dose of 30 micrograms, AVONEX may be started at a dose of 7.5 micrograms and the dose may be increased by 7.5 micrograms each week for the next three weeks until the recommended dose of 30 micrograms is achieved (see Table 1 ).

An AVOSTARTGRIP™ kit containing 3 titration devices can be used for titration and is to be used only with AVONEX Prefilled Syringes. Table 1: Schedule for Dose Titration 1 Dosed once a week, intramuscularly AVONEX Dose 1 Recommended Dose Week 1 7.5 micrograms 1/4 dose Week 2 15 micrograms 1/2 dose Week 3 22.5 micrograms 3/4 dose Week 4+ 30 micrograms full dose

2.2Important Administration Instructions (All Dosage Forms) AVONEX dosage forms (prefilled syringe and prefilled autoinjector) are single-dose. See Patient's Instructions for Use for complete administration instructions. The first AVONEX injection should be performed under the supervision of an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

If patients or caregivers are to administer AVONEX, train them in the proper intramuscular injection technique and assess their ability to inject intramuscularly to ensure the proper administration of AVONEX. Advise patients and caregivers to: Rotate injection sites with each administration to minimize the likelihood of injection site reactions, including necrosis or localized infection [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] NOT inject into an area of the body where the skin is irritated, reddened, bruised, infected or scarred in any way Check the injection site after 2 hours for redness, swelling, or tenderness Contact their healthcare provider if they have a skin reaction and it does not clear up in a few days Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit.

A 25 gauge, 1” needle for intramuscular injection with AVONEX prefilled syringe may be substituted for the 23 gauge, 1 ¼” needle by the healthcare provider, if deemed appropriate. A 25 gauge, 5/8” needle specific to the prefilled autoinjector is supplied with the AVONEX PEN ® Administration Dose Pack. DO NOT use any other needle with the autoinjector.

Use safe disposal procedures for needles and syringes. DO NOT re-use needles, prefilled syringes, or autoinjectors. Following the administration of each titrated dose, discard any remaining product.

2.3Premedication for Flu-like Symptoms Concurrent use of analgesics and/or antipyretics on treatment days may help ameliorate flu-like symptoms associated with AVONEX use.

💊 Dosage Forms and Strengths 61 words ▾

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Injection: 30 micrograms per 0.5 mL clear, colorless solution in a single-dose prefilled syringe Injection: 30 micrograms per 0.5 mL clear, colorless solution in a single-dose prefilled autoinjector Injection: 30 micrograms per 0.5 mL solution in single-dose prefilled syringe ( 3 ) Injection: 30 micrograms per 0.5 mL solution in single-dose prefilled autoinjector ( 3 )

⛔ Contraindications 73 words ▾

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS AVONEX is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to natural or recombinant interferon beta, or any other component of the formulation [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] . The formerly available lyophilized vial formulation of AVONEX is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to albumin (human). History of hypersensitivity to natural or recombinant interferon beta, albumin or any other component of the formulation ( 4 )

⚠️ Warnings and Cautions ~3 min read ▾

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Depression, Suicide, and Psychotic Disorders: advise patients to immediately report any symptoms of depression, suicidal ideation, and/or psychosis; consider discontinuation of AVONEX if depression occurs ( 5.1 ) Hepatic Injury: monitor liver function tests; monitor patients for signs and symptoms of hepatic injury; consider discontinuation of AVONEX if hepatic injury occurs ( 5.2 , 5.10 ) Injection Site Reactions: Do not administer AVONEX into affected area until fully healed; if multiple lesions occur, change injection site or discontinue AVONEX until healing of skin lesions ( 5.4 ).

Anaphylaxis and Other Allergic-Reactions: Discontinue if occurs ( 5.4 ) Congestive Heart Failure: monitor patients with pre-existing significant cardiac disease for worsening of cardiac symptoms ( 5.5 ) Decreased Peripheral Blood Counts: monitor complete blood count ( 5.6 , 5.10 ) Thrombotic Microangiopathy: Cases of thrombotic microangiopathy have been reported. Discontinue AVONEX if clinical symptoms and laboratory findings consistent with TMA occur ( 5.7 ) Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Cases of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) have been reported in patients treated with interferon beta products, including AVONEX.

Discontinue AVONEX if PAH is diagnosed ( 5.8 ) Autoimmune Disorders: consider discontinuation of AVONEX if new autoimmune disorder occurs ( 5.10 , 5.11 )

5.1Depression, Suicide, and Psychotic Disorders Patients treated with AVONEX and their caregivers should be advised to report immediately any symptoms of depression, suicidal ideation, and/or psychosis to their prescribing physicians. If a patient develops depression or other severe psychiatric symptoms, cessation of AVONEX therapy should be considered. Depression and suicide have been reported to occur with increased frequency in patients receiving AVONEX.

In Study 1, the incidence of depression was similar in placebo-treated and in AVONEX-treated patients, but suicidal tendency was seen more frequently in AVONEX-treated patients (4% in AVONEX group vs. 1% in placebo group). In Study 2, there was a greater incidence of depression in AVONEX-treated patients than in placebo-treated patients (20% in AVONEX group vs.

13% in placebo group) [see Clinical Studies ( 14 )] . Additionally, there have been postmarketing reports of depression, suicidal ideation, and/or development of new or worsening of other pre-existing psychiatric disorders, including psychosis. For some of these patients, symptoms of depression improved upon cessation of AVONEX.

5.2Hepatic Injury Severe hepatic injury, including cases of hepatic failure, has been reported rarely in patients taking AVONEX. Asymptomatic elevation of hepatic transaminases has also been reported, and in some patients has recurred upon rechallenge with AVONEX. In some cases, these events have occurred in the presence of other drugs that have been associated with hepatic injury.

The potential risk of AVONEX used in combination with known hepatotoxic drugs or other products (e.g., alcohol) should be considered prior to starting AVONEX, or before starting hepatotoxic drugs. Patients should be monitored for signs of hepatic injury [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.10 )] .

5.3Anaphylaxis and Other Allergic-Reactions Anaphylaxis has been reported as a rare complication of AVONEX use. Other allergic reactions have included dyspnea, orolingual edema, skin rash and urticaria. Discontinue AVONEX if anaphylaxis or other allergic reactions occur.

5.4Injection Site Reactions Including Necrosis Injection site reactions, including injection site necrosis, can occur with the use of interferon beta products, including AVONEX. In controlled clinical trials, injection site reactions (e.g., injection site pain, bruising or erythema) occurred in 18% of patients receiving AVONEX and 13% in the placebo group. These reactions included injection site inflammation (6%), injection site pain (8%), injection site mass (<1%), nonspecif…

🤒 Adverse Reactions ~3 min read ▾

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious adverse reactions are discussed in more detail in other sections of labeling: Depression, Suicide, and Psychotic Disorders [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] Hepatic Injury [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] Anaphylaxis and Other Allergic-Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] Injection Site Reactions Including Necrosis [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] Congestive Heart Failure [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] Decreased Peripheral Blood Counts [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] Thrombotic Microangiopathy [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )] Seizures [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 )] Autoimmune Disorders [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.10 )] Laboratory Tests [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.11 )] The most common adverse reactions (at least 5% more frequent on AVONEX than on placebo) were flu-like symptoms including chills, fever, myalgia, and asthenia.

( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Biogen at 1-800-456-2255 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch .

6.1Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of AVONEX cannot be directly compared to rates in clinical trials of other drugs and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Among 351 patients with relapsing forms of MS treated with AVONEX 30 micrograms (including 319 patients treated for 6 months and 288 patients treated for greater than one year) the most commonly reported adverse reactions (at least 5% more frequent on AVONEX than on placebo) were flu-like symptoms.

Symptoms can include chills, fever, myalgia and asthenia occurring within hours to days following an injection. Most people who take AVONEX have flu-like symptoms early during the course of therapy. Usually, these symptoms last for a day after the injection.

For many people, these symptoms lessen or go away over time. The most frequently reported adverse reactions resulting in clinical intervention (for example, discontinuation of AVONEX or the need for concomitant medication to treat an adverse reaction symptom) were flu-like symptoms and depression. Table 2 enumerates adverse reactions that occurred with AVONEX-treated patients at an incidence of at least 2% more than that observed in the placebo-treated patients in the pooled placebo-controlled studies in patients with relapsing forms of MS [see Clinical Studies ( 14 )] .

Table 2: Adverse Reactions in the Placebo-Controlled Studies Placebo AVONEX Adverse Reaction (N = 333) (N = 351) Body as a Whole Headache 55% 58% Flu-like symptoms (otherwise unspecified) 29% 49% Pain 21% 23% Asthenia 18% 24% Fever 9% 20% Chills 5% 19% Abdominal pain 6% 8% Injection site pain 6% 8% Infection 4% 7% Injection site inflammation 2% 6% Chest pain 2% 5% Injection site reaction 1% 3% Toothache 1% 3% Nervous System Depression 14% 18% Dizziness 12% 14% Respiratory System Upper respiratory tract infection 12% 14% Sinusitis 12% 14% Bronchitis 5% 8% Digestive System Nausea 19% 23% Musculoskeletal System Myalgia 22% 29% Arthralgia 6% 9% Urogenital Urinary tract infection 15% 17% Urine constituents abnormal 0% 3% Skin and Appendages Alopecia 2% 4% Special Senses Eye disorder 2% 4% Hemic and Lymphatic System Injection site ecchymosis 4% 6% Anemia 1% 4% Cardiovascular System Migraine 3% 5% Vasodilation 0% 2% Immunogenicity Anaphylaxis and other allergic reactions have occurred in AVONEX-treated patients [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] .

As with all therapeutic proteins, there is a potential for immunogenicity. In studies assessing immunogenicity in multiple sclerosis patients administered AVONEX for at least 1 year, 5% (21 of 390 patients) showed the presence of neutralizing antibodies at one or more times. These data reflect the percentage of patients whose test results were considered posi…

👥 Use in Specific Populations ~3 min read ▾

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Pregnancy: Epidemiological data do not suggest a clear relationship between interferon beta use and major congenital malformations, but interferon beta may cause fetal harm based on animal data. ( 8.1 )

8.1Pregnancy Risk Summary Data from a large population-based cohort study, as well as other published studies over several decades, have not identified a drug-associated risk of major birth defects with the use of interferon beta products during early pregnancy. Findings regarding a potential risk for low birth weight or miscarriage with the use of interferon beta products in pregnancy have been inconsistent (see Data ). In a study in pregnant monkeys, administration of interferon beta during pregnancy resulted in an increased rate of abortion at doses greater than those used clinically ( see Data ).

In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. Data Human Data The majority of observational studies reporting on pregnancies exposed to interferon beta products did not identify an association between the use of interferon beta products during early pregnancy and an increased risk of major birth defects.

In a population-based cohort study conducted in Finland and Sweden, data were collected from 1996--2014 in Finland and 2005--2014 in Sweden on 2,831 pregnancy outcomes from women with MS. 797 pregnancies were in women exposed to interferon beta only. No evidence was found of an increased risk of major birth defects among women with MS exposed to interferon beta products compared to women with MS that were unexposed to any non-steroid therapy for MS (n=1,647) within the study.

No increased risks were observed for miscarriages and ectopic pregnancies, though there were limitations in obtaining complete data capture for these outcomes, making the interpretation of the findings more difficult. Two small cohort studies that examined pregnancies exposed to interferon beta products (without differentiating between subtypes of interferon beta products) suggested that a decrease in mean birth weight may be associated with interferon beta exposure during pregnancy, but this finding was not confirmed in larger observational studies.

Two small studies observed an increased prevalence of miscarriage, although the finding was only statistically significant in one study. Most studies enrolled patients later in pregnancy which made it difficult to ascertain the true percentage of miscarriages. In one small cohort study, a significantly increased risk of preterm birth following interferon beta exposure during pregnancy was observed.

Animal Data In pregnant monkeys given interferon beta at 100 times the recommended weekly human dose (based upon a body surface area [mg/m 2 ] comparison), no adverse effects on embryofetal development were observed. Abortifacient activity was evident following 3 to 5 doses at this level. No abortifacient effects were observed in monkeys treated at 2 times the recommended weekly human dose (based upon mg/m 2 ).

8.2Lactation Risk Summary Limited published literature has described the presence of interferon beta-1a products in human milk at low levels. There are no data on the effects of interferon beta-1a on milk production. Therefore, the developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for AVONEX and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from AVONEX or from the underlying maternal condition.

8.4Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.

8.5Geriatric Use Clinical studies of AVONEX did not include sufficient numbers of patients aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently than younger patients.

🤰 Pregnancy ~2 min read ▾

8.1Pregnancy Risk Summary Data from a large population-based cohort study, as well as other published studies over several decades, have not identified a drug-associated risk of major birth defects with the use of interferon beta products during early pregnancy. Findings regarding a potential risk for low birth weight or miscarriage with the use of interferon beta products in pregnancy have been inconsistent (see Data ). In a study in pregnant monkeys, administration of interferon beta during pregnancy resulted in an increased rate of abortion at doses greater than those used clinically ( see Data ).

In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. Data Human Data The majority of observational studies reporting on pregnancies exposed to interferon beta products did not identify an association between the use of interferon beta products during early pregnancy and an increased risk of major birth defects.

In a population-based cohort study conducted in Finland and Sweden, data were collected from 1996--2014 in Finland and 2005--2014 in Sweden on 2,831 pregnancy outcomes from women with MS. 797 pregnancies were in women exposed to interferon beta only. No evidence was found of an increased risk of major birth defects among women with MS exposed to interferon beta products compared to women with MS that were unexposed to any non-steroid therapy for MS (n=1,647) within the study.

No increased risks were observed for miscarriages and ectopic pregnancies, though there were limitations in obtaining complete data capture for these outcomes, making the interpretation of the findings more difficult. Two small cohort studies that examined pregnancies exposed to interferon beta products (without differentiating between subtypes of interferon beta products) suggested that a decrease in mean birth weight may be associated with interferon beta exposure during pregnancy, but this finding was not confirmed in larger observational studies.

Two small studies observed an increased prevalence of miscarriage, although the finding was only statistically significant in one study. Most studies enrolled patients later in pregnancy which made it difficult to ascertain the true percentage of miscarriages. In one small cohort study, a significantly increased risk of preterm birth following interferon beta exposure during pregnancy was observed.

Animal Data In pregnant monkeys given interferon beta at 100 times the recommended weekly human dose (based upon a body surface area [mg/m 2 ] comparison), no adverse effects on embryofetal development were observed. Abortifacient activity was evident following 3 to 5 doses at this level. No abortifacient effects were observed in monkeys treated at 2 times the recommended weekly human dose (based upon mg/m 2 ).

🧒 Pediatric Use 13 words ▾

8.4Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.

🧓 Geriatric Use 27 words ▾

8.5Geriatric Use Clinical studies of AVONEX did not include sufficient numbers of patients aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently than younger patients.

🧬 Clinical Pharmacology ~2 min read ▾

12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

12.1Mechanism of Action The mechanism of action by which AVONEX exerts its effects in patients with multiple sclerosis is unknown.

12.2Pharmacodynamics Interferons (IFNs) are a family of naturally occurring proteins, produced by eukaryotic cells in response to viral infection and other biologic agents. Three major types of interferons have been defined: type I (IFN-alpha, beta, epsilon, kappa and omega), type II (IFN–gamma) and type III (IFN-lambda). Interferon-beta is a member of the type I subset of interferons.

The type I interferons have considerably overlapping but also distinct biologic activities. The bioactivities of all IFNs, including IFN-beta, are induced via their binding to specific receptors on the membranes of human cells. Differences in the bioactivities induced by the three major subtypes of IFNs likely reflect differences in the signal transduction pathways induced by signaling through their cognate receptors.

Interferon beta 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 leads to the expression of numerous interferon-induced gene products and markers. These include 2', 5'-oligoadenylate synthetase, β 2 -microglobulin, and neopterin.

These products have been measured in the serum and cellular fractions of blood collected from patients treated with AVONEX. Clinical studies conducted in multiple sclerosis patients showed that interleukin 10 (IL-10) levels in cerebrospinal fluid were increased in patients treated with AVONEX compared to placebo. Serum IL-10 levels maximally were increased by 48 hours after intramuscular injection of AVONEX and remained elevated for 1 week.

However, no relationship has been established between absolute levels of IL-10 and clinical outcome in multiple sclerosis.

12.3Pharmacokinetics Pharmacokinetics of AVONEX in multiple sclerosis patients have not been evaluated. The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles of AVONEX in healthy subjects following doses of 30 micrograms through 75 micrograms have been investigated. Serum levels of AVONEX as measured by antiviral activity are slightly above detectable limits following a 30 microgram intramuscular dose, and increase with higher doses.

After an intramuscular dose, serum levels of AVONEX generally peak at 15 hours post-dose (range: 6-36 hours) and then decline at a rate consistent with a 19 (range: 8-54) hour elimination half-life. Subcutaneous administration of AVONEX should not be substituted for intramuscular administration as there is no data establishing that subcutaneous and intramuscular administration of AVONEX result in equivalent pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters. Biological response markers (e.g., neopterin and β 2 -microglobulin) are induced by AVONEX following parenteral doses of 15 micrograms through 75 micrograms in healthy subjects and treated patients.

Biological response marker levels increase within 12 hours of dosing and remain elevated for at least 4 days. Peak biological response marker levels are typically observed 48 hours after dosing. The relationship of serum AVONEX levels or levels of these induced biological response markers to the mechanisms by which AVONEX exerts its effects in multiple sclerosis is unknown.

🧬 Mechanism of Action 21 words ▾

12.1Mechanism of Action The mechanism of action by which AVONEX exerts its effects in patients with multiple sclerosis is unknown.

📦 How Supplied / Storage and Handling ~1 min read ▾

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING

16.1How Supplied AVONEX (interferon beta-1a) injection is a clear, colorless solution in a single-dose prefilled glass syringe or a single-dose prefilled autoinjector for intramuscular injection available in the following packaging configurations: NDC number Contents NDC 59627-002-06 one single-dose prefilled AVONEX syringe one 23-gauge, 1¼-inch needle NDC 59627-222-05 four single-dose prefilled AVONEX syringes four 23-gauge, 1¼-inch needles four alcohol wipes four gauze pads four adhesive bandages NDC 59627-003-01 one single-dose prefilled autoinjector (AVONEX Pen) one 25-gauge, 5/8-inch needle one AVONEX Pen cover NDC 59627-333-04 four single-dose prefilled autoinjector (AVONEX Pens) four 25-gauge, 5/8-inch needles four AVONEX Pen covers four alcohol wipes four gauze pads four adhesive bandages

16.2Storage and Handling Refrigerate AVONEX prefilled syringes and autoinjectors at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) in the original carton to protect from light. DO NOT FREEZE. Once removed from the refrigerator, allow prefilled syringes and autoinjectors to warm to room temperature (about 30 minutes).

Do not use external heat sources such as hot water to warm AVONEX. Should refrigeration be unavailable, a prefilled syringe or autoinjector may be stored at room temperature up to 25°C (77°F) for a period up to 7 days. DO NOT EXPOSE TO HIGH TEMPERATURES.

Once the product is removed from the refrigerator, it must not be stored above 25°C (77°F). If the product has been exposed to conditions other than those recommended, DISCARD THE PRODUCT and DO NOT USE . Do not use beyond the expiration date.

AVONEX Prefilled Syringe and AVONEX PEN contain natural rubber latex which may cause allergic reactions.

📦 Storage and Handling 149 words ▾

16.2Storage and Handling Refrigerate AVONEX prefilled syringes and autoinjectors at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) in the original carton to protect from light. DO NOT FREEZE. Once removed from the refrigerator, allow prefilled syringes and autoinjectors to warm to room temperature (about 30 minutes).

Do not use external heat sources such as hot water to warm AVONEX. Should refrigeration be unavailable, a prefilled syringe or autoinjector may be stored at room temperature up to 25°C (77°F) for a period up to 7 days. DO NOT EXPOSE TO HIGH TEMPERATURES.

Once the product is removed from the refrigerator, it must not be stored above 25°C (77°F). If the product has been exposed to conditions other than those recommended, DISCARD THE PRODUCT and DO NOT USE . Do not use beyond the expiration date.

AVONEX Prefilled Syringe and AVONEX PEN contain natural rubber latex which may cause allergic reactions.

📋 Description ~1 min read ▾

11 DESCRIPTION Interferon beta-1a, an interferon beta, is a 166 amino acid glycoprotein with a molecular weight of approximately 22,500 daltons. It is produced by recombinant DNA technology using genetically engineered 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.

Using the World Health Organization (WHO) International Standard for Interferon, AVONEX has a specific activity of approximately 200 million international units of antiviral activity per mg of interferon beta-1a determined specifically by an in vitro cytopathic effect bioassay using lung carcinoma cells (A549) and Encephalomyocarditis virus (ECM). AVONEX 30 micrograms contains approximately 6 million international units of antiviral activity using this method. The activity against other standards is not known.

Comparison of the activity of AVONEX with other interferon betas is not appropriate, because of differences in the reference standards and assays used to measure activity. AVONEX (interferon beta-1a) injection is a sterile liquid for intramuscular injection available in a prefilled glass syringe or a prefilled glass syringe surrounded by an autoinjector. Each single-dose prefilled glass syringe or single-dose prefilled autoinjector delivers 0.5 mL of solution containing 30 micrograms of interferon beta-1a, arginine hydrochloride, USP (15.8 mg), glacial acetic acid, USP (0.25 mg), polysorbate 20 (0.025 mg), sodium acetate trihydrate, USP (0.79 mg), and Water for Injection, USP at a pH of approximately 4.8.

💬 Information for Patients ~3 min read ▾

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION See FDA-approved patient labeling ( Medication Guide and Patient's Instructions for Use ). Instruct patients to carefully read the supplied AVONEX Medication Guide and caution patients not to change the AVONEX dose or schedule of administration without medical consultation. Inform patients that the tip cap of the AVONEX Prefilled Syringe and AVONEX PEN contains natural rubber latex which may cause allergic reactions.

Instruction on Self-injection Technique and Procedures Provide appropriate instruction for methods of self-injection of AVONEX, including careful review of the AVONEX Medication Guide. Instruct patients in the use of aseptic technique when administering AVONEX. Inform patients that an appropriately qualified healthcare professional should show them or their caregiver how to prepare and inject AVONEX before administering the first dose.

An appropriately qualified healthcare professional should watch the first AVONEX injection given. Tell patients not to re-use needles or syringes and instruct patients on safe disposal procedures. Inform patients to dispose of used needles and syringes in a puncture-resistant container and instruct the patient regarding safe disposal of full containers.

Advise patients: of the importance of rotating areas of injection with each dose to minimize the likelihood of injection site reactions. [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 ) and Choose an Injection Site section of the Medication Guide] . NOT to inject area of the body where the skin is irritated, reddened, bruised, infected or scarred in any way to check the injection site after 2 hours for redness, swelling, or tenderness contact their healthcare provider if they have a skin reaction and it does not clear up in a few days Pregnancy Advise patients to notify their healthcare provider if they become pregnant during treatment or plan to become pregnant [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.1 )] .

Depression Advise patients of the symptoms of depression, suicidal ideation, or psychotic disorders as they have been reported with the use of AVONEX and instruct patients to report them immediately to their physician [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . Liver Disease Advise patients that severe hepatic injury, including hepatic failure, has been reported during the use of AVONEX. Advise patients of symptoms of hepatic dysfunction, and instruct patients to report them immediately to their physician [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] .

Allergic Reactions and Anaphylaxis Advise patients of the symptoms of allergic reactions and anaphylaxis, and instruct patients to seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] . Injection Site Reactions Including Necrosis Advise patients that injection site reactions can occur and that the reactions can include injection site necrosis. Instruct patients to report promptly any break in the skin that is associated with blue-black discoloration, swelling, or drainage of fluid from the injection site [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )].

Congestive Heart Failure Advise patients that worsening of pre-existing congestive heart failure has been reported in patients using AVONEX. Advise patients of symptoms of worsening cardiac condition, and instruct patients to report them immediately to their physician [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] . Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Inform patients that PAH has occurred in patients treated with interferon beta products, including AVONEX.

Instruct patients to promptly report any new symptoms such as new or increasing fatigue or shortness of breath to their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )] . Seizures Advise patients that seizures have been reported in patients using AVONEX. Instruct patients to report seizures immediately to their physician [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 )] .

Flu-like Symptoms Inform patients that flu-like symptoms are common following in…

💬 Medication Guide ~3 min read ▾

This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Revised: 7/2023 MEDICATION GUIDE AVONEX ® (a-vuh-necks) (interferon beta-1a) Injection for intramuscular use Read this Medication Guide before you start using AVONEX, and each time you get a refill.

There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking with your healthcare provider about your medical condition or your treatment. What is the most important information I should know about AVONEX?

AVONEX can cause serious side effects. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the symptoms listed below while taking AVONEX. 1.

Depression, suicidal thoughts, hallucinations or other behavioral health problems. Some people taking AVONEX may develop mood or behavior problems including: irritability (getting upset easily) depression (feeling hopeless or feeling bad about yourself) nervousness anxiety aggressive behavior thoughts of hurting yourself or suicide hearing or seeing things that others do not hear or see (hallucinations) If you have any of these mood or behavior problems, your healthcare provider may tell you to stop taking AVONEX. 2.

Liver problems, or worsening of liver problems including liver failure and death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any of these symptoms: nausea loss of appetite tiredness dark colored urine and pale stools yellowing of your skin or the white part of your eye bleeding more easily than normal confusion sleepiness During your treatment with AVONEX you will need to see your healthcare provider regularly and have regular blood tests to check for side effects. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take and if you drink alcohol before you start taking AVONEX.

3. Serious allergic and skin reactions. Serious allergic and skin reactions can happen when you take AVENOX.

Symptoms of serious allergic and skin reactions may include: itching swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue or throat trouble breathing anxiousness feeling faint skin rash, hives, sores in your mouth, or your skin blisters and peels Get emergency help right away if you have any of these symptoms. Talk to your healthcare provider before taking another dose of AVONEX. What is AVONEX?

AVONEX is a prescription medicine used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), to include clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting disease, and active secondary progressive disease in adults. It is not known if AVONEX is safe and effective in children. Do not take AVONEX if you: are allergic to interferon beta or any of the ingredients in AVONEX.

See the end of this Medication Guide for a complete list of ingredients in AVONEX. Before taking AVONEX, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you: are being treated for a mental illness or had treatment in the past for any mental illness, including depression and suicidal behavior. have or had bleeding problems or blood clots. have or had low blood cell counts. have or had liver problems. have or had seizures. (epilepsy). have or had heart problems. have or had thyroid problems. have or had any kind of autoimmune disease (where the body's immune system attacks the body's own cells). drink alcohol. have or have had an allergic reaction to rubber or latex.

The tip cap of the AVONEX prefilled syringe and prefilled autoinjector Pen contain natural rubber latex. are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if AVONEX can harm your unborn baby. are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. AVONEX may pass into your breastmilk.

Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby if you take AVONEX. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. How should I use AVONEX?

See the Instructions for Use for detailed instructions for preparing and injecting your dose of AV…

Source: FDA Structured Product Labeling, mirrored from DailyMed / openFDA. Prefer the government’s original formatting? View this label on DailyMed ↗
← 59623-0013-01 · Integrative 59627-0003-01 · Biogen →
For educational and professional reference only — not medical advice. Pricing reflects published NADAC and CMS ASP (free public data) and may differ from your acquisition cost; always verify before billing or dispensing.