| Rebif ® (interferon beta-1a) should be used with caution
in patients with depression, a condition that is common in people with
multiple sclerosis.
Depression, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts have been reported
to occur with increased frequency in patients receiving interferon compounds,
including Rebif ®.
The most common serious adverse event reported with Rebif ®
were psychiatric disorders, including depression and suicide ideation
or attempt.
The incidence of depression of any severity with Rebif ®
treated groups (including placebo controls) was approximately 25%.
Patients should be advised to report immediately any symptoms of
depression and/or suicidal ideation to the prescribing physician.
If a patient develops depression, cessation of treatment with Rebif
® should be considered.
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