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Extavia Side Effects

Generic name: interferon beta-1b

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 5, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Extavia Side Effects associated with interferon beta-1b. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Extavia.

Applies to interferon beta-1b: subcutaneous powder for solution.

Serious side effects of Extavia

Along with its needed effects, interferon beta-1b (the active ingredient contained in Extavia) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking interferon beta-1b:

More common

  • blue-green to black skin discoloration
  • changes in menstrual periods
  • chills
  • cough
  • decreased sexual ability in males
  • diarrhea
  • fever
  • general feeling of discomfort or illness
  • headache
  • irregular or pounding heartbeat
  • joint pain
  • loss of appetite
  • muscle aches and pains
  • nausea
  • runny or stuffy nose
  • shivering
  • sore throat
  • stomach pain
  • sweating
  • trouble sleeping
  • unusual tiredness or weakness
  • vomiting

Less common

  • bloody or cloudy urine
  • changes in vision
  • cold hands and feet
  • difficult, burning, or painful urination
  • frequent urge to urinate
  • pelvic pain
  • swollen glands
  • trouble breathing
  • unusual weight gain

Incidence not known

  • black, tarry stools
  • bleeding problems
  • bleeding gums
  • bloating or swelling
  • blood in the urine or stools
  • chest pain, discomfort, or tightness
  • confusion
  • dry, puffy skin
  • feeling cold
  • hoarseness or husky voice
  • increased muscle tone
  • increased urge to urinate
  • light-colored stools
  • loss of memory
  • nervousness
  • nosebleeds
  • pale skin
  • pinpoint red spots on the skin
  • problems with speaking
  • red, itching, or swollen eyes
  • restlessness
  • seizures
  • sensitivity to heat
  • swelling of the feet or lower legs
  • swelling of the front part of the neck
  • trouble sitting still
  • unusual bleeding or bruising
  • unusual weight loss
  • upper right abdominal or stomach pain
  • yellowing eyes and skin

Other side effects of Extavia

Some side effects of interferon beta-1b may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

  • constipation
  • dizziness
  • loss of voice
  • menstrual pain or other changes

Incidence not known

  • difficulty in moving
  • loss or thinning of the hair
  • muscle stiffness

For healthcare professionals

Applies to interferon beta-1b: subcutaneous powder for injection.

General

Influenza-like symptoms (e.g., myalgia, fever, chills, sweating, asthenia, headache, nausea) are the most common adverse reactions.[Ref]

Dermatologic

Endocrine

Gastrointestinal

Cardiovascular

Genitourinary

Hematologic

Hepatic

Hypersensitivity

Immunologic

Local

Metabolic

Musculoskeletal

Nervous system

Other

Psychiatric

Renal

Respiratory

References

1. (2002) "Product Information. Betaseron (interferon beta-1b)." Berlex Laboratories

2. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics."

3. Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (2006) APPGuide online. Australian prescription products guide online. http://www.appco.com.au/appguide/default.asp

Further information

Extavia side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.