Avonex and Alcohol, Avonex alcohol interaction, What is Avonex
Avonex and Alcohol speaks to Avonex alcohol interaction, what is Avonex and Avonex side effects.
Avonex also brand name Rebif generic name interferon beta-1a is an injected drug which is used to treat the relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis MS. This drug is not a cure for MS but slows some disabling effects and decreases the frequency of relapses. Interferon is a natural substance that is produced in the body to fight infection. This drug is the synthetic version of such.
It is suggested that you consult with your doctor before consuming alcohol while taking Avonex or Rebif.
At this time the medical community defines moderate consumption of alcohol as no more than two drinks per day and no more than 14 drinks per week. Anything more than that is considered an unhealthy dependency on alcohol that may have adverse social, family and health consequences.
If a person drinks only once or twice a week but drinks on the same days each week and more than two drinks this is considered as an alcohol dependency.
If a person binge drinks at any time during the week this is also considered as alcoholism.
Some consider alcoholism as a disease while others consider it an addiction which is the result of personal choice and character fault. This school of thought blames the alcoholism on life style choices.
Personally I consider alcoholism a genetic tendency as I have seen families of alcoholics even when they live far apart. These unfortunate people are probably dependent on alcohol from the first drink.
When alcohol interacts with prescription over the counter drugs it usually results in negative health effects most especially liver damage as the main organ affected.
It is suggested that before taking this or any other drug you have a frank and honest discussion with your physician as to your drinking habits. This may be difficult as many alcoholics are in a state of denial as to their drinking habits.
I have also noticed that many alcoholics are not subject to the morning after illness that most of us suffer through when we drink too much. Severe alcoholics usually find if they feel “shakey” in the morning, a drink will make them feel more normal.
Before starting this drug ensure that your physician is told of any allergic reactions to any other medicines, foods, dyes, preservative or animals, angina, autoimmune disorders, bone marrow problems, congestive heart failure, depression or mental problems, heart disease, heart rhythm problems, liver disease, seizures, epilepsy or thyroid problems.
Side Effects
Less serious side effects of Avonex and alcohol are heartburn, indigestion, sour stomach, hair loss and trouble with sleeping. If these occur call your physician for advice.
Serious side effects of Avonex and alcohol are abdominal or stomach pain, unsteadiness, convulsions, decreased hearing, difficulty swallowing, dizziness, fainting, warm feeling, hives or itching, mood changes, suicidal thoughts, muscle spasms, pain or discharge from vagina, pelvic discomfort, aching, heaviness, redness of the face, neck and arms, red or swollen at injection site, runny or stuffy nose, skin lesions, sneezing, sore throat, problem speaking, swelling of the face, lips, eyelids, trouble breathing or wheezing. If these occur get emergency medical help.
This site serves as an information source only and does not dispense medical advice or any other kind of advice. If you are seeking medical advice you are advised to consult your own physician.
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