Interferon beta-1-alpha (Avonex Pen): Discontinuation

Discontinuation Active

Biogen, the supplier, has decided to stop supplying Avonex pens (Interferon beta-1-alpha).

Affected product

This discontinuation only affects the Avonex pen. The Avonex pre-filled syringe will remain available.

  • Chemical: Interferon beta-1-alpha
  • Presentation: Injection 6 million iu per 0.5 ml pen injector
  • Brand: Avonex pen
  • Pharmacode: 2431440
  • Subsidy: $1170.00
  • Measure / Qty: per 4

Schedule listing for interferon beta-1-alpha(external link)

Alternative product

People who use Avonex pens will need to talk to the person who prescribed the pen to discuss the best alternative treatment for you.

The Avonex pre-filled syringe is available and will continue to be available (Pharmacode 2261421). The pre-filled injection contains the same amount of active ingredient in the same strength. The way you take it differs.

Instructions on how to take the Avonex pre-filled syringe - Avonex US website [PDF](external link)

New Zealand Data Sheet (Avonex) | Medsafe(external link)

New Zealand Consumer Medicine Information sheet (Avonex) Medsafe(external link)

Information for people who prescribe Avonex pens

Please do not start anyone on the Avonex pen. Please talk to any of your current patients who use the Avonex pen about changing to a different treatment, which could be the Avonex prefilled syringe.

Inteferon beta monograph in the NZ Formulary(external link)

The supplier, Biogen, has written to all health care professionals about this change.

Pharmacists: What you need to know

Stock of the pens will run out with the supplier in January or February 2025. There will still be stock of the pens in the supply chain for a number of weeks after then. We will not delist the pens without giving you a chance to dispense and claim for them. 

When will this happen?

Stock of the pens is likely to run out in February 2025. People will need to switch to an alternative treatment early in 2025.

Who to contact

If you have questions about this issue, email enquiry@pharmac.govt.nz

Please include as much information as you can about the product (presentation, brand, pharmacode) and who your wholesaler is.

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