Dc. Mohr et al., Side effect profile and adherence to in the treatment of multiple sclerosis with interferon beta-1a, MULT SCLER, 4(6), 1998, pp. 487-489
This study examines the course of patient-reported side effects during the
first 4 months of treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS) with interferon bet
a-1a (IFN beta-1a), and the relationship of those side effects to discontin
uation of medication. Flu-like symptoms, muscle aches and chills decreased
over the first 2 months of treatment but did not change over the second 2 m
onths. Loss of feeling or numbness, tingling and depression increased over
4 months, however these side effects were generally mild. Loss of feeling o
r numbness and tingling at 2 month follow-up were significantly related to
discontinuation of IFN beta-1a by 4 month follow-up.