Avonex

Avonex is an interferon drug developed by the Biogen pharmaceutical company for use in the treatment of relapsing/recurring Multiple Sclerosis.

Whilst not a cure, Avonex is reported to reduce the frequency and severity of recurring/remitting Multiple Sclerosis exacerbations. This writer can attest to apocryphal reports of the effectiveness of Avonex.

Avonex is made by using mammalian chinese hamster ovarian cells to which the human interferon gene has been introduced. Avonex is shipped in single use kits, containing a syringe, adhesive plaster, gauze pad, sterile diluent, and the Avonex itself in powdered form.

Biogen is currently in the process of releasing a new pre-reconstituted syringe kit, and is phasing out the old style kits in the fall of 2003.

Avonex is administered once a week via intramuscular injection. Biogen is currently running clinical trials on a new form of the drug, which is administered intravenously once a month.

Biogen, the pharmaceutical company that produces Avonex, also operates a comprehensive support service for people with Multiple Sclerosis. This includes telephone support and advice, the MSActive Source web site with information about Multiple Sclerosis, and regularly holds both physical and telephone conferences with neurolist guests who specialize in Multiple Sclerosis.