HONG KONG, June 27, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Biogen Idec (Hong Kong) Limited announced AVONEX®
(interferon beta-1a) is now available in Hong Kong. AVONEX is one of the most prescribed treatments for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) and is approved and available in more than 90 countries.
"With its proven efficacy and well-established safety profile, AVONEX is the therapy of choice for many MS patients. It helps slow the progression of the disease and the physical symptoms related to it. It’s once-weekly administration is also important to many MS patients who do not want to be reminded of their disease with frequent injections," said J. Theodore Phillips, MD, PhD, director of the Multiple Sclerosis Center at Texas Neurology and Clinical Professor, Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.
"For more than 15 years, AVONEX has been one of the most prescribed treatments for MS patients worldwide. We are excited to bring this option to Hong Kong," said Connie Chiu, Country Manager at Biogen Idec (Hong Kong) Limited.
The most common side effects associated with AVONEX are flu-like symptoms, including myalgia, fever, fatigue, headache, chills, nausea, vomiting, pain and asthenia. AVONEX should be used with caution in patients with depression or other mood disorders and in patients with seizure disorders. AVONEX should not be used by pregnant women. Patients with cardiac disease should be closely monitored. Patients should also be monitored for signs of hepatic injury. Routine periodic blood chemistry and hematology tests are recommended during treatment with AVONEX. Rare cases of anaphylaxis have been reported.
For more information regarding AVONEX please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet.
About Biogen Idec (Hong Kong) Limited
Biogen Idec (Hong Kong) Limited is a division of Biogen Idec, Inc. Biogen Idec uses cutting-edge science to discover, develop, manufacture and market therapies for serious diseases with a focus on neurology, immunology and hemophilia. Founded in 1978, Biogen Idec is the world's oldest independent biotechnology company. Patients worldwide benefit from its leading multiple sclerosis therapies, and the company generates more than US$4 billion in annual revenues. For product labeling, press releases and additional information about the company, please visit www.biogenidec.com.
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