Interferon beta-1b

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Image:Interferon beta-1b.png
Interferon beta-1b
Systematic (IUPAC) name
Human interferon beta
Identifiers
CAS number	145155-23-3
ATC code	L03 AB08
PubChem	?
DrugBank	BTD00078
Chemical data
Formula	C₉₀₈H₁₄₀₈N₂₄₆O₂₅₃S₆
Mol. weight	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 (outside a living organism - a "petri dish" experiment), 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$1600 for 0.3 mg solution, or equivalent to 15 vials. [1]