Interferon beta-1b (tradenames Betaferon, Betaseron (North America), Extavia and ZIFERON) is a drug in the interferon family used to treat the relapsing-remitting and secondary-progressive forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). It is approved for use after the first MS event. 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.
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, so it does not necessarily mean it works the same in people.
Patients taking Interferon beta-1b may develop neutralizing antibodies to the medication. Reference link
Betaferon/Betaseron is marketed today by Bayer HealthCare. The originator was Schering AG (Berlex in North America), now part of Bayer HealthCare. Novartis has also introduced Extavia, a new brand of interferon beta-1b, in 2009.
Closely related is interferon beta-1a, also indicated for MS, and with a very similar drug profile.