ABSTRACT
To determine common systemic, local and laboratory side effects of Avonex therapy in Iranian multiple sclerosis patients. 50 confirmed MS patients [according to McDonald 2001criteria] treated with 30mcg weekly bifia, Avonex, were studied and questioned for presence of common known adverse effects of the drug and probable depression induced or aggravated by it. The study was following up regularly at the onset of Avonex therapy and afterl,3 and 6 months. At the end of 6 months follow up study the data was analyzed. 70% of the patients were between 20 to 30 years. 78% were female. The patients had a duration of MS of 0-12 years. The most common side effects were systemic type out of which flu like syndrome was predominant [90%]. Local [injection site] side effects were seen in 42% and anemia was seen in 8% as a predominant laboratory side effect. Reduction of the frequency of all of the side effects except local one was seen in the follow up duration. No correlations were found between side effects and sex and age of the patients. Avonex therapy had no effect in inducing induction or aggravating depression in our patients. Discontinuation of Avonex therapy was not seen among these patients because of the side effects. It seems that Avonex therapy in Iranian MS patients has more and relatively prolonged adverse effects but mainly these side effects fade away with continuation of therapy. The side effects do not lead to discontinuation of therapy. In spite of frequent complaints of the patients, all of the adverse effects are well tolerated