Extavia

1 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ANNEX I 
 

SUMMARY OF PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS 



 

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1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 

 

Extavia 250 microgram/ml powder and solvent for solution for injection. 

 

 

2. QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE COMPOSITION 

 

Extavia contains 300 microgram (9.6 million IU) of recombinant interferon beta-1b per vial*. 

 

After reconstitution, each ml contains 250 microgram (8.0 million IU) of recombinant interferon beta-

1b. 

 

* produced by genetic engineering from strain of Escherichia coli. 

 

For the full list of excipients, see section 6.1. 

 

 

3. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM 

 

Powder and solvent for solution for injection. 

 

Powder - white to off-white in colour. 

Solvent - clear/colourless solution. 

 

 

4. CLINICAL PARTICULARS 

 

4.1 Therapeutic indications 

 

Extavia is indicated for the treatment of: 

 Patients with a single demyelinating event with an active inflammatory process, if it is severe 
enough to warrant treatment with intravenous corticosteroids, if alternative diagnoses have been 

excluded, and if they are determined to be at high risk of developing clinically definite multiple 

sclerosis (see section 5.1). 

 Patients with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis and two or more relapses within the last two 
years. 

 Patients with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis with active disease, evidenced by 
relapses. 

 

4.2 Posology and method of administration 

 

The treatment with Extavia should be initiated under the supervision of a physician experienced in the 

treatment of the disease. 

 

Posology 

 

Adults and adolescents from 12-17 years of age 

The recommended dose of Extavia is 250 microgram (8.0 million IU), contained in 1 ml of the 

reconstituted solution (see section 6.6), to be injected subcutaneously every other day. 

 

Generally, dose titration is recommended at the start of treatment. 

 

Patients should be started at 62.5 microgram (0.25 ml) subcutaneously every other day, and increased 

slowly to a dose of 250 microgram (1.0 ml) every other day (see Table A). The titration period may be 

adjusted, if any significant adverse reaction occurs. In order to obtain adequate efficacy, a dose of 

250 microgram (1.0 ml) every other day should be reached. 

 



 

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Table A Schedule for dose titration* 

 

Treatment day Dose Volume  

1, 3, 5 62.5  microgram 0.25 ml 

7, 9, 11 125 microgram 0.5  ml 

13, 15, 17 187.5 microgram 0.75 ml 

≥ 19 250 microgram 1.0 ml 

* The titration period may be adjusted if any significant adverse reaction occurs. 

 

The optimal dose has not been fully clarified. 

 

At the present time, it is not known for how long the patient should be treated. There are follow-up 

data under controlled clinical conditions for patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis for up 

to 5 years and for patients with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis for up to 3 years. For 

relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, efficacy has been demonstrated for therapy for the first two 

years. The available data for the additional three years are consistent with sustained treatment efficacy 

of Extavia over the whole time period. 

 

In patients with a single clinical event suggestive of multiple sclerosis, efficacy has been demonstrated 

over a period of three years. 

 

Treatment is not recommended in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis who have 

experienced less than 2 relapses in the previous 2 years or in patients with secondary-progressive 

multiple sclerosis who have had no active disease in the previous 2 years. 

 

If the patient fails to respond, for example a steady progression in Expanded Disability Status Scale 

(EDSS) for 6 months occurs or treatment with at least 3 courses of adrenocorticotropic hormone 

(ACTH) or corticosteroids during a one-year period is required despite Extavia therapy, treatment with 

Extavia should be stopped. 

 

Paediatric population 

No formal clinical trials or pharmacokinetic studies have been conducted in children or adolescents. 

However, limited published data suggest that the safety profile in adolescents from 12 to 17 years of 

age receiving Extavia 8.0 million IU subcutaneously every other day is similar to that seen in adults. 

No data are available on the use of Extavia in children under 12 years of age and therefore Extavia 

should not be used in this population. 

 

Method of administration 

 

The reconstituted solution is to be injected subcutaneously every other day. 

 

For instructions on reconstitution of the medicinal product before administration, see section 6.6. 

 

4.3 Contraindications 

 

 Hypersensitivity to natural or recombinant interferon beta, human albumin or to any of the 
excipients listed in section 6.1. 

 Patients with current severe depression and/or suicidal ideation (see sections 4.4 and 4.8). 

 Patients with decompensated liver disease (see sections 4.4, 4.5 and 4.8). 
 



 

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4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use 

 

Traceability 

 

In order to improve the traceability of biological medicinal products, the name and the batch number 

of the administered product should be clearly recorded. 

 

Immune system disorders 

 

The administration of cytokines to patients with a pre-existing monoclonal gammopathy has been 

associated with the development of systemic capillary leak syndrome with shock-like symptoms and 

fatal outcome. 

 

Gastrointestinal disorders 

 

Cases of pancreatitis were observed with Extavia use, often associated with hypertriglyceridaemia. 

 

Nervous system disorders 

 

Extavia should be administered with caution to patients with previous or current depressive disorders, 

in particular to those with antecedents of suicidal ideation (see section 4.3). Depression and suicidal 

ideation are known to occur with increased frequency in the multiple sclerosis population and in 

association with interferon use. Patients treated with Extavia should be advised to immediately report 

any symptoms of depression and/or suicidal ideation to their prescribing physician. Patients exhibiting 

depression should be monitored closely during therapy with Extavia and treated appropriately. 

Cessation of therapy with Extavia should be considered (see also sections 4.3 and 4.8). 

 

Extavia should be administered with caution to patients with a history of seizures, to patients receiving 

treatment with anti-epileptics, and in particular to patients with epilepsy who are not adequately 

controlled with anti-epileptics (see sections 4.5 and 4.8). 

 

This medicinal product contains human albumin and hence carries a potential risk for transmission of 

viral diseases. A risk for transmission of Creutzfeld-Jacob disease (CJD) cannot be excluded. 

 

Laboratory tests 

 

Regular thyroid function tests are recommended in patients with a history of thyroid dysfunction or as 

clinically indicated. 

 

In addition to those laboratory tests normally required for monitoring patients with multiple sclerosis, 

complete blood and differential white blood cell counts, platelet counts, and blood chemistries, 

including liver function tests (e.g. aspartate aminotransferase serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase 

(SGOT), alanine aminotransferase serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) and gamma 

glutamyltransferase), are recommended prior to initiation and at regular intervals following 

introduction of Extavia therapy, and then periodically thereafter in the absence of clinical symptoms. 

 

Patients with anaemia, thrombocytopenia or leukopenia (alone or in any combination) may require 

more intensive monitoring of complete blood cell counts, with differential and platelet counts. Patients 

who develop neutropenia should be monitored closely for the development of fever or infection. There 

have been reports of thrombocytopenia, with profound decreases in platelet count. 

 



 

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Hepatobiliary disorders 

 

Asymptomatic elevations of serum transaminases, in most cases mild and transient, occurred very 

commonly in patients treated with Extavia during clinical trials. As for other beta interferons, cases of 

severe hepatic injury, including hepatic failure, have been reported in patients treated with Extavia. 

The most serious events often occurred in patients exposed to other medicinal products or substances 

known to be associated with hepatotoxicity or in the presence of co-morbid medical conditions (e.g. 

metastasising malignant disease, severe infection and sepsis, alcohol abuse). 

 

Patients should be monitored for signs of hepatic injury. The occurrence of elevations in serum 

transaminases should lead to close monitoring and investigation. Withdrawal of Extavia should be 

considered if the levels significantly increase or if they are associated with clinical symptoms such as 

jaundice. In the absence of clinical evidence for liver damage, and after normalisation of liver 

enzymes, a reintroduction of therapy could be considered with appropriate follow-up of hepatic 

functions. 

 

Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) and haemolytic anaemia (HA) 

 

Cases of thrombotic microangiopathy, manifested as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) or 

haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), including fatal cases, have been reported with interferon beta 

products. Early clinical features include thrombocytopenia, new onset hypertension, fever, central 

nervous system symptoms (e.g. confusion, paresis) and impaired renal function. Laboratory findings 

suggestive of TMA include decreased platelet counts, increased serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) 

due to haemolysis and schistocytes (erythrocyte fragmentation) on a blood film. Therefore if clinical 

features of TMA are observed, further testing of blood platelet levels, serum LDH, blood films and 

renal function is recommended. Additionally, cases of HA not associated with TMA, including 

immune HA, have been reported with interferon beta products. Life-threatening and fatal cases have 

been reported. Cases of TMA and/or HA have been reported at various time points during treatment 
and may occur several weeks to several years after starting treatment with interferon beta. If TMA 

and/or HA is diagnosed, and a relationship to Extavia is suspected, prompt treatment is required (in 

case of TMA considering plasma exchange) and immediate discontinuation of Extavia is 

recommended. 

 

Renal and urinary disorders 

 

Caution should be used and close monitoring considered when administering interferon beta to 

patients with severe renal failure. 

 

Nephrotic syndrome 

Cases of nephrotic syndrome with different underlying nephropathies including collapsing focal 

segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), minimal change disease (MCD), membranoproliferative 

glomerulonephritis (MPGN) and membranous glomerulopathy (MGN) have been reported during 

treatment with interferon beta products. Events were reported at various time points during treatment 

and may occur after several years of treatment with interferon beta. Periodic monitoring of early signs 

or symptoms, e.g. oedema, proteinuria and impaired renal function, is recommended, especially in 

patients at higher risk of renal disease. Prompt treatment of nephrotic syndrome is required and 

discontinuation of treatment with Extavia should be considered. 

 

Cardiac disorders 

 

Extavia should also be used with caution in patients who suffer from pre-existing cardiac disorders. 

Patients with pre-existing significant cardiac disease, such as congestive heart failure, coronary artery 

disease or arrhythmia, should be monitored for worsening of their cardiac condition, particularly 

during initiation of treatment with Extavia. 

 



 

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While Extavia does not have any known direct-acting cardiac toxicity, symptoms of the flu-like 

syndrome associated with beta interferons may prove stressful to patients with pre-existing significant 

cardiac disease. During the post-marketing period very rare reports have been received of temporary 

worsening of cardiac status at the start of Extavia therapy in patients with pre-existing significant 

cardiac disease. 

 

Cases of cardiomyopathy have been reported. If this occurs and a relationship to Extavia is suspected, 

treatment should be discontinued. 

 

General disorders and administration site conditions 

 

Serious hypersensitivity reactions (severe acute reactions such as bronchospasm, anaphylaxis and 

urticaria) may occur. If reactions are severe, Extavia should be discontinued and appropriate medical 

intervention instituted. 

 

Injection site necrosis has been reported in patients using Extavia (see section 4.8). It can be extensive 

and may involve muscle fascia as well as fat and therefore can result in scar formation. Debridement 

and, less often, skin grafting are occasionally required and healing may take up to 6 months. 

 

If the patient experiences any break in the skin, which may be associated with swelling or drainage of 

fluid from the injection site, the patient should be advised to consult with his/her physician before 

continuing injections with Extavia. 

 

If the patient has multiple lesions Extavia should be discontinued until healing has occurred. Patients 

with single lesions may continue on Extavia provided the necrosis is not too extensive, as some 

patients have experienced healing of injection site necrosis whilst on Extavia. 

 

To minimise the risk of injection site necrosis patients should be advised to: 

 use an aseptic injection technique, 

 rotate the injection sites with each dose. 
 

The incidence of injection site reactions may be reduced by the use of an auto-injector. In the pivotal 

study of patients with a single clinical event suggestive of multiple sclerosis an auto-injector was used 

in the majority of patients. Injection site reactions and necroses were observed less frequently in this 

study than in the other pivotal studies. 

 

The procedure for self-administration by the patient should be reviewed periodically, especially if 

injection site reactions have occurred. 

 

Immunogenicity 

 

As with all therapeutic proteins, there is a potential for immunogenicity. In controlled clinical trials 

serum samples were collected every 3 months for monitoring of development of antibodies to Extavia. 

 

In the different controlled clinical trials, between 23% and 41% of the patients developed serum 

interferon beta-1b neutralising activity confirmed by at least two consecutive positive titres. Between 

43% and 55% of these patients converted to a stable antibody negative status (based on two 

consecutive negative titres) during the subsequent observational period of the trial concerned. 

 

The development of neutralising activity is associated with a reduction in clinical efficacy only with 

regard to relapse activity. Some analyses suggest that this effect might be more pronounced in patients 

with higher titre levels of neutralising activity. 

 



 

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In the study of patients with a single clinical event suggestive of multiple sclerosis, neutralising 

activity measured every 6 months was observed at least once in 32% (89) of the patients treated 

immediately with Extavia. 60% (53) of these patients returned to negative status based on the last 

available assessment within the 5-year period. Within this period, the development of neutralising 

activity was associated with a significant increase in newly active lesions and T2 lesion volume on 

magnetic resonance imaging. However, this did not seem to be associated with a reduction in clinical 

efficacy (with regard to time to clinically definite multiple sclerosis (CDMS), time to confirmed EDSS 

progression and relapse rate). 

 

New adverse events have not been associated with the development of neutralising activity. 

 

It has been demonstrated in vitro that Extavia cross-reacts with natural interferon beta. However, this 

has not been investigated in vivo and its clinical significance is uncertain. 

 

There are sparse and inconclusive data on patients who have developed neutralising activity and have 

completed Extavia therapy. 

 

The decision to continue or discontinue treatment should be based on clinical disease activity rather 

than on neutralising activity status. 

 

Excipients 

 

This medicinal product contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per ml, i.e. essentially ‘sodium-

free’. 

 

Latex-sensitive individuals 

 

The removable tip cap of the Extavia pre-filled syringe contains a derivative of natural rubber latex. 

Although no natural rubber latex is detected in the cap, the safe use of Extavia pre-filled syringe in 

latex-sensitive individuals has not been studied and there is therefore a potential risk for 

hypersensitivity reactions which cannot be completely ruled out. 

 

4.5 Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction 

 

No interaction studies have been performed. 

 

The effect of alternate-day administration of 250 microgram (8.0 million IU) Extavia on drug 

metabolism in multiple sclerosis patients is unknown. Corticosteroid or ACTH treatment of relapses 

for periods of up to 28 days has been well tolerated in patients receiving Extavia. 

 

Due to the lack of clinical experience in multiple sclerosis patients, the use of Extavia together with 

immunomodulators other than corticosteroids or ACTH is not recommended. 

 

Interferons have been reported to reduce the activity of hepatic cytochrome P450-dependent enzymes 

in humans and animals. Caution should be exercised when Extavia is administered in combination 

with medicinal products that have a narrow therapeutic index and are largely dependent on the hepatic 

cytochrome P450 system for clearance, e.g. anti-epileptics. Additional caution should be exercised 

with any co-medication which has an effect on the haematopoetic system. 

 

  



 

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4.6 Fertility, pregnancy and lactation 

 

Pregnancy 

 

A large amount of data (more than 1,000 pregnancy outcomes) from interferon beta registries, national 

registries and post-marketing experience indicates no increased risk of major congenital anomalies, 

after pre-conception exposure or exposure during the first trimester of pregnancy. 

 

However, the duration of exposure during the first trimester is uncertain, because data were collected 

when interferon beta use was contraindicated during pregnancy, and treatment was likely interrupted 

when the pregnancy was detected and/or confirmed. Experience with exposure during the second and 

third trimesters is very limited. 

 

Based on animal data (see section 5.3), there is a possibly increased risk for spontaneous abortion. The 

risk of spontaneous abortions in pregnant women exposed to interferon beta cannot adequately be 

evaluated by means of the currently available data, but the data suggest no increased risk so far. 

 

If clinically needed, the use of Extavia may be considered during pregnancy. 

 

Breast-feeding 

 

Limited information available on the transfer of interferon beta-1b into breast milk, together with the 

chemical / physiological characteristics of interferon beta, suggests that levels of interferon beta-1b 

excreted in human milk are negligible. No harmful effects on the breast-fed newborn/infant are 

anticipated. 

 

Extavia can be used during breast-feeding. 

 

Fertility 

 

No investigations on fertility have been conducted (see section 5.3). 
 

4.7 Effects on ability to drive and use machines 

 

No studies on the effects on the ability to drive and use machines have been performed. 

 

Adverse events related to the central nervous system associated with the use of Extavia might 

influence the ability to drive and use machines in susceptible patients. 

 

4.8 Undesirable effects 

 

Summary of the safety profile 

 

At the beginning of treatment adverse reactions are common but in general they subside with further 

treatment. The most frequently observed adverse reactions are a flu-like symptom complex (fever, 

chills, arthralgia, malaise, sweating, headache, or myalgia), which is mainly due to the 

pharmacological effects of the medicinal product, and injection site reactions. Injection site reactions 

occurred frequently after administration of Extavia. Redness, swelling, discolouration, inflammation, 

pain, hypersensitivity, necrosis and non-specific reactions were significantly associated with 

250 microgram (8.0 million IU) Extavia treatment. 

 

The most serious adverse reactions reported include thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) and 

haemolytic anaemia (HA). 

 



 

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Generally, dose titration is recommended at the start of treatment in order to increase tolerability to 

Extavia (see section 4.2). Flu-like symptoms may also be reduced by administration of non-steroidal 

anti-inflammatory medicinal products. The incidence of injection site reactions may be reduced by the 

use of an auto-injector. 

 

Tabulated list of adverse reactions 

 

In the following tables, the most appropriate MedDRA term is used to describe a certain reaction and 

its synonyms and related conditions. 

 

The following adverse event listings are based on reports from clinical trials (Table 1, adverse events 

and laboratory abnormalities) and from post-marketing surveillance (Table 2, frequencies - where 

known - based on pooled clinical trials (very common 1/10, common 1/100 to <1/10, uncommon 

1/1,000 to <1/100, rare 1/10,000 to <1/1,000, very rare <1/10,000)) of Extavia use. Experience 
with Extavia in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) is limited, consequently those adverse events 

which occur very rarely may not yet have been observed. 

 

Table 1 Adverse events and laboratory abnormalities with incidence rates ≥10% and the 

respective percentages under placebo; significantly associated side effects <10% 

based on reports from clinical trials 

 

System Organ Class 

 

Adverse Event and 

Laboratory 

Abnormalities 

Single Event 

suggestive of 

Multiple 

Sclerosis 

(BENEFIT) 

Secondary 

Progressive 

Multiple 

Sclerosis 

(European 

Study) 

Secondary 

Progressive 

Multiple 

Sclerosis 

(North 

American 

Study) 

Relapsing-

Remitting 

Multiple 

Sclerosis 

Extavia 

250 microgram 

(Placebo) 

n=292 (n=176) 

Extavia 

250 microgram 

(Placebo) 

n=360 (n=358) 

Extavia 

250 microgram 

(Placebo) 

n=317 (n=308) 

Extavia 

250 microgram 

(Placebo) 

n=124 (n=123) 

Infections and infestations 

Infection 6% (3%) 13% (11%) 11% (10%) 14% (13%) 

Abscess 0% (1%) 4% (2%) 4% (5%) 1% (6%) 

Blood and lymphatic system disorders 

Lymphocyte count 

decreased (<1500/mm³)  

 ° 

79% (45%) 53% (28%) 88% (68%) 82% (67%) 

Absolute neutrophil count 

decreased (<1500/mm³)  

 * °  

11% (2%) 18% (5%) 4% (10%) 18% (5%) 

White blood cell count 

decreased (<3000/mm³)  

 * °  

11% (2%) 13% (4%) 13% (4%) 16% (4) % 

Lymphadenopathy 1% (1%) 3% (1%) 11% (5%) 14% (11%) 

Metabolism and nutrition disorders 

Blood glucose decreased 

(<55 mg/dl)  

3% (5%) 27% (27%) 5% (3%) 15% (13%) 

Psychiatric disorders 

Depression 10% (11%) 24% (31%) 44% (41%) 25% (24%) 

Anxiety 3% (5%) 6% (5%) 10% (11%) 15% (13%) 



 

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Nervous system disorders 

Headache  27% (17%) 47% (41%) 55% (46%) 84% (77%) 

Dizziness 3% (4%) 14% (14%) 28% (26%) 35% (28%) 

Insomnia 8% (4%) 12% (8%) 26% (25%) 31% (33%) 

Migraine 2% (2%) 4% (3%) 5% (4%) 12% (7%) 

Paraesthesia 16% (17%) 35% (39%) 40% (43%) 19% (21%) 

Eye disorders 

Conjunctivitis 1% (1%) 2% (3%) 6% (6%) 12% (10%) 

Abnormal vision  3% (1%) 11% (15%) 11% (11%) 7% (4%) 

Ear and labyrinth disorders 

Ear pain 0% (1%) <1% (1%) 6% (8%) 16% (15%) 

Cardiac disorders 

Palpitation * 1% (1%) 2% (3%) 5% (2%) 8% (2%) 

Vascular disorders 

Vasodilatation 0% (0%) 6% (4%) 13% (8%) 18% (17%) 

Hypertension ° 2% (0%) 4% (2%) 9% (8%) 7% (2%) 

Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders 

Upper respiratory 

infection 

18% (19%) 3% (2%)   

Sinusitis 4% (6%) 6% (6%) 16% (18%) 36% (26%) 

Cough increased 2% (2%) 5% (10%) 11% (15%) 31% (23%) 

Dyspnoea * 0% (0%) 3% (2%) 8% (6%) 8% (2%) 

Gastrointestinal disorders 

Diarrhoea 4% (2%) 7% (10%) 21% (19%) 35% (29%) 

Constipation 1% (1%) 12% (12%) 22% (24%) 24% (18%) 

Nausea 3% (4%) 13% (13%) 32% (30%) 48% (49%) 

Vomiting  5% (1%) 4% (6%) 10% (12%) 21% (19%) 

Abdominal pain ° 5% (3%) 11% (6%) 18% (16%) 32% (24%) 

Hepatobiliary disorders 

Alanine aminotransferase 

increased (SGPT >5 times 

baseline)   * ° 

18% (5%) 14% (5%) 4% (2%) 19% (6%) 

Aspartate 

aminotransferase 

increased (SGOT 

>5 times baseline)   * °  

6% (1%) 4% (1%) 2% (1%) 4% (0%) 

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders 

Skin disorder 1% (0%) 4% (4%) 19% (17%) 6% (8%) 

Rash  ° 11% (3%) 20% (12%) 26% (20%) 27% (32%) 

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders 

Hypertonia° 2% (1%) 41% (31%) 57% (57%) 26% (24%) 

Myalgia * ° 8% (8%) 23% (9%) 19% (29%) 44% (28%) 

Myasthenia 2% (2%) 39% (40%) 57% (60%) 13% (10%) 

Back pain 10% (7%) 26% (24%) 31% (32%) 36% (37%) 

Pain in extremity 6% (3%) 14% (12%)  0% (0%) 

Renal and urinary disorders 

Urinary retention 1% (1%) 4% (6%) 15% (13%)  

Urinary protein positive 

(>1+) 

25% (26%) 14% (11%) 5% (5%) 5% (3%) 

Urinary frequency 1% (1%) 6% (5%) 12% (11%) 3% (5%) 

Urinary incontinence 1% (1%) 8% (15%) 20% (19%) 2% (1%) 

Urinary urgency 1% (1%) 8% (7%) 21% (17%) 4% (2%) 



 

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Reproductive system and breast disorders 

Dysmenorrhoea 2% (0%) <1% (<1%) 6% (5%) 18% (11%) 

Menstrual disorder * 1% (2%) 9% (13%) 10% (8%) 17% (8%) 

Metrorrhagia 2% (0%) 12% (6%) 10% (10%) 15% (8%) 

Impotence 1% (0%) 7% (4%) 10% (11%) 2% (1%) 

General disorders and administration site conditions 

Injection site reaction 

(various kinds)  * ° § 

52% (11%) 78% (20%) 89% (37%) 85% (37%) 

Injection site necrosis * ° 1% (0%) 5% (0%) 6% (0%) 5% (0%) 

Flu-like symptoms &  *° 44% (18%) 61% (40%) 43% (33%) 52% (48%) 

Fever  * ° 13% (5%) 40% (13%) 29% (24%) 59% (41%) 

Pain 4% (4%) 31% (25%) 59% (59%) 52% (48%) 

Chest pain ° 1% (0%) 5% (4%) 15% (8%) 15% (15%) 

Peripheral oedema 0% (0%) 7% (7%) 21% (18%) 7% (8%) 

Asthenia * 22% (17%) 63% (58%) 64% (58%) 49% (35%) 

Chills  * °  5% (1%) 23% (7%) 22% (12%) 46% (19%) 

Sweating * 2% (1%) 6% (6%) 10% (10%) 23% (11%) 

Malaise * 0% (1%) 8% (5%) 6% (2%) 15% (3%) 

The most appropriate MedDRA term is used to describe a certain reaction and its synonyms and related 

conditions. 
 Laboratory abnormality 
  Significantly associated with Extavia treatment for patients with first event suggestive of MS, p 

<0.05 

* Significantly associated with Extavia treatment for RRMS, p <0.05 

° Significantly associated with Extavia treatment for SPMS, p <0.05 

§ Injection site reaction (various kinds) comprises all adverse events occurring at the injection site, 

i.e. the following terms: injection site haemorrhage, injection site hypersensitivity, injection site 

inflammation, injection site mass, injection site necrosis, injection site pain, injection site 

reaction, injection site oedema, and injection site atrophy 

& “Flu-like symptom complex” denotes flu syndrome and/or a combination of at least two adverse 

events from fever, chills, myalgia, malaise, sweating. 

 

  



 

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Table 2 Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) identified during post-marketing surveillance 

(frequencies - where known - calculated based on pooled clinical trial data N = 1,093) 

 
System Organ 

Class 

 

Very 

common 

(1/10) 

Common 

(1/100 to  

<1/10) 

Uncommon 

(1/1,000 to  

<1/100) 

Rare 

(1/10,000 to 

<1/1,000) 

Frequency 

not known 

Blood and 

lymphatic system 

disorders 

 Anaemia Thrombocytopenia Thrombotic 

microangiopathy*** 

including thrombotic 

thrombocytopenic 

purpura/haemolytic 

uraemic syndrome# 

Haemolytic 

anaemia*/*** 

Immune system 

disorders 

   Anaphylactic 

reactions 

Capillary leak 

syndrome in pre-

existing 

monoclonal 

gammopathy* 

Endocrine 

disorders 

 Hypothyroidism  Hyperthyroidism, 

Thyroid disorders 

 

Metabolism and 

nutrition disorders 

 Weight 

increased, 

Weight 

decreased 

Blood triglycerides 

increased 

Anorexia*  

Psychiatric 

disorders 

 Confusional 

state 

 

Suicide attempt 

(see also 

section 4.4), 

Emotional lability 

  

Nervous system 

disorders 

  Convulsion 

 

  

Cardiac disorders  Tachycardia  Cardiomyopathy* 

 

 

Respiratory, 

thoracic and 

mediastinal 

disorders 

   Bronchospasm* Pulmonary arterial 

hypertension** 

Gastrointestinal 

disorders 

   Pancreatitis  

Hepatobiliary 

disorders 

 Blood bilirubin 

increased 

Gamma-glutamyl-

transferase 

increased, 

Hepatitis 

Hepatic injury 

(including hepatitis), 

Hepatic failure* 

 

Skin and 

subcutaneous tissue 

disorders 

 Urticaria, 

Pruritus, 

Alopecia 

Skin discolouration   

Musculoskeletal 

and connective 

tissue disorders 

Arthralgia    Drug-induced lupus 

erythematosus 

Renal and urinary 

disorders 

  Nephrotic 

syndrome, 

glomerulosclerosis 

(see section 4.4)* , # 

  

Reproductive 

system and breast 

disorders 

 Menorrhagia    

* ADRs derived only during post-marketing. 
# Class label for interferon beta products (see section 4.4). 

** Class label for interferon products, see below “Pulmonary arterial hypertension”. 

*** Life-threatening and/or fatal cases have been reported. 

 



 

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Pulmonary arterial hypertension 

 

Cases of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) have been reported with interferon beta products. 

Events were reported at various time points including up to several years after starting treatment with 

interferon beta. 

 

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions 

 

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It 

allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare 

professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the national reporting system 

listed in Appendix V. 

 

4.9 Overdose 

 

Interferon beta-1b has been given to adult cancer patients at individual doses as high as 

5,500 microgram (176 million IU) intravenously three times a week without serious adverse events 

compromising vital functions. 

 

 

5. PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES 

 

5.1 Pharmacodynamic properties 

 

Pharmacotherapeutic group: Immunostimulants, interferons, ATC code: L03AB08 

 

Interferons belong to the family of cytokines, which are naturally occurring proteins. Interferons have 

molecular weights ranging from 15,000 to 21,000 Daltons. Three major classes of interferons have 

been identified: alpha, beta, and gamma. Interferon alpha, interferon beta, and interferon gamma have 

overlapping yet distinct biological activities. The activities of interferon beta-1b are species-restricted 

and therefore, the most pertinent pharmacological information on interferon beta-1b is derived from 

studies of human cells in culture or human in vivo studies. 

 

Mechanism of action 

 

Interferon beta-1b has been shown to possess both antiviral and immunoregulatory activity. The 

mechanisms by which interferon beta-1b exerts its actions in multiple sclerosis are not clearly 

understood. However, it is known that the biological response-modifying properties of interferon 

beta-1b are mediated through its interactions with specific cell receptors found on the surface of 

human cells. The binding of interferon beta-1b to these receptors induces the expression of a number 

of gene products that are believed to be the mediators of the biological actions of interferon beta-1b. A 

number of these products have been measured in the serum and cellular fractions of blood collected 

from patients treated with interferon beta-1b. Interferon beta-1b both decreases the binding affinity 

and enhances the internalisation and degradation of the interferon-gamma receptor. Interferon beta-1b 

also enhances the suppressor activity of peripheral blood mononuclear cells. 

 

  

http://www.ema.europa.eu/docs/en_GB/document_library/Template_or_form/2013/03/WC500139752.doc


 

14 

Clinical efficacy and safety 

 

No separate investigations were performed regarding the influence of Extavia on the cardiovascular 

system, respiratory system and the function of endocrine organs. 

 

Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RR-MS) 

One controlled clinical trial was performed with Extavia in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple 

sclerosis and able to walk unaided (baseline EDSS 0 to 5.5). In patients receiving Extavia there was a 

reduction in the frequency (30%) and severity of clinical relapses and in the number of hospitalisations 

due to disease. Furthermore, there was a prolongation of the relapse-free interval. There is no evidence 

of an effect of Extavia on the duration of relapses or on symptoms in between relapses, and no 

significant effect was seen on the progression of the disease in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. 

 

Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SP-MS) 

Two controlled clinical trials were performed with Extavia involving a total of 1,657 patients with 

secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (baseline EDSS 3 to 6.5, i.e. patients were able to walk). 

Patients with mild disease and those unable to walk were not studied. The two studies showed 

inconsistent results for the primary endpoint time to confirmed progression, representing delay of 

disability progression: 

 

One of the two studies demonstrated a statistically significant delay in the time to disability 

progression (Hazard Ratio = 0.69, 95% confidence interval (0.55, 0.86), p=0.0010, corresponding to a 

31% risk reduction due to Extavia) and in the time to becoming wheelchair-bound (Hazard Ratio = 

0.61, 95% confidence interval (0.44, 0.85), p=0.0036, corresponding to a 39% risk reduction due to 

Extavia) in patients who received Extavia. This effect continued over the observation period of up to 

33 months. The treatment effect occurred in patients at all levels of disability investigated and 

independent of relapse activity. 

 

In the second trial of Extavia in secondary progressive multiple sclerosis, no delay in the time to 

disability progression was observed. There is evidence that the patients included in this study had 

overall less active disease than in the other study in secondary progressive multiple sclerosis. 

 

In retrospective meta-analyses including the data of both studies, a statistically significant overall 

treatment effect was found (p=0.0076; 8.0 million IU Extavia versus all placebo patients). 

 

Retrospective analyses in subgroups showed that a treatment effect on disability progression is most 

likely in patients with active disease before treatment commences (Hazard Ratio 0.72, 95% confidence 

interval (0.59, 0.88), p=0.0011, corresponding to a 28% risk reduction due to Extavia in patients with 

relapses or pronounced EDSS progression, 8.0 million IU Extavia versus all placebo patients). From 

these retrospective subgroup analyses there was evidence to suggest that relapses as well as 

pronounced EDSS progression (EDSS >1 point or >0.5 point for EDSS >=6 in the previous two years) 

can help to identify patients with active disease. 

 

In both trials there was a reduction (30%) in frequency of clinical relapses in patients with secondary 

progressive multiple sclerosis patients receiving Extavia. There is no evidence of Extavia having an 

effect on the duration of relapses. 

 



 

15 

Single clinical event suggestive of multiple sclerosis 

One controlled clinical trial with Extavia was performed in patients with a single clinical event and 

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) features suggestive of multiple sclerosis (at least two clinically 

silent lesions on the T2-weighted MRI). Patients with monofocal or multifocal onset of the disease 

were included (i.e. patients with clinical evidence of a single or at least two lesions, respectively, of 

the central nervous system). Any disease other than multiple sclerosis that could better explain signs 

and symptoms of the patient had to be excluded. This study consisted of two phases, a placebo-

controlled phase followed by a pre-planned follow-up phase. The placebo-controlled phase lasted for 

2 years or until the patient developed clinically definite multiple scleroiss (CDMS), whichever came 

first. After the placebo-controlled phase, patients entered a pre-planned follow-up phase with Extavia 

to evaluate the effects of immediate versus delayed start of Extavia treatment, comparing patients 

initially randomised to Extavia (“immediate treatment group”) or to placebo (“delayed treatment 

group”). Patients and investigators remained blinded to the initial treatment allocation. 

 

In the placebo-controlled phase, Extavia delayed the progression from the first clinical event to 

clinically definite multiple sclerosis (CDMS) in a statistically significant and clinically meaningful 

manner, corresponding to a risk reduction of 47% (Hazard Ratio = 0.53, 95% confidence interval 

(0.39, 0.73), p<0.0001). Within the study period of two years, CDMS occurred in 45% of the placebo 

group compared to 28% of the Extavia group (Kaplan-Meier estimates). Extavia prolonged the time to 

CDMS by 363 days, from 255 days in the placebo group to 618 days in the Extavia group (based on 

the 25th percentiles). This treatment effect was still evident after the additional year of follow-up at 

which stage the risk reduction was 41% (Hazard Ratio = 0.59, 95% confidence interval (0.42, 0.83), 

p=0.0011). Within the study period of three years, CDMS occurred in 51% of the delayed treatment 

group compared to 37% of the immediate treatment group (Kaplan-Meier estimates). The persistence 

of the treatment effect was observed although the majority of patients from the placebo-group was 

treated with Extavia in the third year of the study. 

 

The robustness of the treatment effect was also shown by the delay of progression to multiple sclerosis 

according to the McDonald criteria. In two years, the risk was 85% in the placebo group and 69% in 

the Extavia group (Hazard Ratio = 0.57, 95% confidence interval (0.46, 0.71), p<0.00001). 

 

After 3 years, a pre-planned interim analysis showed EDSS progression (confirmed increase in EDSS 

of greater than or equal to 1.0 compared to baseline) occurred in 24% of the patients in the delayed 

treatment group compared to 16% in the immediate treatment group [Hazard Ratio = 0.6, 95% 

confidence interval (0.39, 0.92), p=0.022]. There is no evidence for benefit in terms of confirmed 

disability progression in the majority of patients receiving “immediate” treatment. Follow-up of 

patients is continuing in order to provide additional data. No benefit, attributable to Extavia, in quality 

of life (as measured by FAMS – Functional Assessment of MS: Treatment Outcomes Index) was seen. 

 

Subgroup analyses according to baseline factors demonstrated evidence of efficacy in all subgroups 

evaluated. Significant effects were also obtained in patients with less disseminated and less active 

disease at the time of the first event. The risk for progression to CDMS within two years in patients 

with monofocal onset was 47% for placebo and 24% for Extavia, without gadolinium (Gd-) 

enhancement 41% and 20%, with less than 9 T2 lesions 39% and 18%. Further subgroup analyses 

indicated a high risk for progression to CDMS within 2 years in monofocal patients with at least 9 T2-

lesions (55% risk for placebo, 26% for Extavia) or Gd-enhancement (63% versus 33%). In multifocal 

patients, the risk for CDMS was independent from MRI findings at baseline, indicating a high risk for 

CDMS because of the dissemination of the disease based on clinical findings. However, the long-term 

impact of early treatment with Extavia is unknown even in these high risk subgroups as this study was 

mainly designed to assess the time to CDMS rather than the long-term evolution of the disease. 

Furthermore, for the time being there is no well established definition of a high risk patient, although a 

more conservative approach is to accept at least nine T2 hyperintense lesions on the initial scan and at 

least one new T2 or one new Gd-enhancing lesion on a follow-up scan taken at least 1 month after the 

initial scan. In any case, treatment should only be considered for patients classified as high risk. 

 



 

16 

Therapy with Extavia was well accepted in the study of patients with a single clinical event as 

indicated by a high rate of trial completion (92.8% in the Extavia group). To increase tolerability of 

Extavia in the study of patients with a first clinical event, a dose titration was applied and non-

steroidal anti-inflammatory medicinal products were administered at start of therapy. Moreover, an 

autoinjector was used by the majority of patients throughout the study. 

 

RR-MS, SP-MS and single clinical event suggestive of MS 

In all multiple sclerosis studies Extavia was effective in reducing disease activity (acute inflammation 

in the central nervous system and permanent tissue alterations) as measured by magnetic resonance 

imaging (MRI). The relation of multiple sclerosis disease activity as measured by MRI and clinical 

outcome is currently not fully understood. 

 

5.2 Pharmacokinetic properties 

 

Extavia serum levels were followed in patients and volunteers by means of a bioassay that was not 

completely specific. Maximum serum levels of about 40 IU/ml were found 1-8 hours after 

subcutaneous injection of 500 microgram (16.0 million IU) interferon beta-1b. From various studies 

mean clearance rates and half-lives of disposition phases from serum were estimated to be at most 

30 ml·min-1·kg-1 and 5 hours, respectively. 

 

Administration of Extavia injections every other day does not lead to serum level increase, and the 

pharmacokinetics do not seem to change during therapy. 

 

The absolute bioavailability of subcutaneously administered interferon beta-1b was approximately 

50%. 

 

5.3 Preclinical safety data 

 

No acute toxicity studies have been performed. As rodents do not react to human interferon beta, 

repeated dose studies were carried out with rhesus monkeys. Transitory hyperthermia was observed, as 

well as a significant rise in lymphocytes and a significant decrease in thrombocytes and segmented 

neutrophils. 

 

No long-term studies have been conducted. Reproduction studies with rhesus monkeys revealed 

maternal toxicity and an increased rate of abortion, resulting in prenatal mortality. No malformations 

have been observed in the surviving animals. 

 

No investigations on fertility have been conducted. No influence on the monkey oestrous cycle has 

been observed. Experience with other interferons suggest a potential for impairment of male and 

female fertility. 

 

In one single genotoxicity study (Ames test), no mutagenic effect has been observed. Carcinogenicity 

studies have not been performed. An in vitro cell transformation test gave no indication of tumorigenic 

potential. 

 

 

6. PHARMACEUTICAL PARTICULARS 

 

6.1 List of excipients 

 

Powder 

 

Human albumin 

Mannitol (E421) 

 



 

17 

Solvent 

 

Sodium chloride 

Water for injection 

 

6.2 Incompatibilities 

 

This medicinal product must not be mixed with other medicinal products except for the supplied 

solvent mentioned in section 6.6. 

 

6.3 Shelf life 

 

2 years. 

 

After reconstitution immediate use is recommended. However, in-use stability has been demonstrated 

for 3 hours at 2°C - 8°C. 

 

6.4 Special precautions for storage 

 

Do not store above 25°C. 

Do not freeze. 

 

For storage conditions after reconstitution of the medicinal product, see section 6.3. 

 

6.5 Nature and contents of container 

 

Powder 

 

3 ml vial (clear type I glass) with a butyl rubber stopper (type I) and aluminium overseal containing 

300 microgram (9.6 million IU) of (recombinant interferon beta-1b) powder. 

 

Solvent 

 

2.25 ml graduated (with dose marks of: 0.25 ml, 0.5 ml, 0.75 ml, 1.0 ml) pre-filled syringe (type I 

glass) with 1.2 ml solvent. 

 

Pack sizes 

 

- Pack containing 5 vials with powder and 5 pre-filled syringes with solvent 
- Pack containing 14 vials with powder and 14 pre-filled syringes with solvent 
- Pack containing 15 vials with powder and 15 pre-filled syringes with solvent 
- Pack containing 14 vials with powder and 15 pre-filled syringes with solvent 
 

- 3-month multipack containing 42 (3x14) vials with powder and 42 (3x14) pre-filled syringes 
with solvent 

- 3-month multipack containing 45 (3x15) vials with powder and 45 (3x15) pre-filled syringes 
with solvent 

- 3-month multipack containing 42 (3x14) vials with powder and 45 (3x15) pre-filled syringes 
with solvent 

 

Not all pack sizes may be marketed. 

 

  



 

18 

6.6 Special precautions for disposal and other handling 

 

The tip cap of the pre-filled syringe contains a derivative of natural rubber latex. Therefore, the tip cap 

may contain natural rubber latex, which should not be handled by persons sensitive to this substance. 

 

Reconstitution 

 

To reconstitute the powder, the pre-filled syringe with solvent should be used with a needle or a vial 

adapter to inject the 1.2 ml of the solvent (sodium chloride 5.4 mg/ml (0.54%) solution for injection) 

into the Extavia vial. The powder should dissolve completely without shaking. After reconstitution, 

1.0 ml of the solution should be drawn from the vial into the syringe for the administration of 

250 microgram Extavia. 

 
Inspection prior to use 

 

The reconstituted product should be inspected visually before use. The reconstituted product is 

colourless to light yellow and slightly opalescent to opalescent. 

 

The medicinal product should be discarded before use if it contains particulate matter or is 

discoloured. 

 

Disposal 

 

Any unused medicinal product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local 

requirements. 

 

 

7. MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 

 

Novartis Europharm Limited 

Vista Building 

Elm Park, Merrion Road 

Dublin 4 

Ireland 

 

 

8. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER 

 

EU/1/08/454/008-014 

 

 

9. DATE OF FIRST AUTHORISATION/RENEWAL OF THE AUTHORISATION 

 

Date of first authorisation: 20 May 2008 

Date of latest renewal: 20 May 2013 

 

 

10. DATE OF REVISION OF THE TEXT 

 

 

Detailed information on this medicinal product is available on the website of the European Medicines 

Agency http://www.ema.europa.eu 

  

http://www.ema.europa.eu/


 

19 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ANNEX II 
 

A. MANUFACTURER OF THE BIOLOGICAL ACTIVE 

SUBSTANCE AND MANUFACTURER RESPONSIBLE FOR 

BATCH RELEASE 

 

B. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS REGARDING SUPPLY AND 

USE 

 

C. OTHER CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS OF THE 

MARKETING AUTHORISATION 

 

D. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS WITH REGARD TO 

THE SAFE AND EFFECTIVE USE OF THE MEDICINAL 

PRODUCT 



 

20 

A. MANUFACTURER OF THE BIOLOGICAL ACTIVE SUBSTANCE AND 

MANUFACTURER RESPONSIBLE FOR BATCH RELEASE 
 

Name and address of the manufacturer of the biological active substance 

 

Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co KG 

Dr.-Boehringer-Gasse 5-11 

A-1121 Vienna 

Austria 

 

Name and address of the manufacturer responsible for batch release 

 

Novartis Pharma GmbH 

Roonstrasse 25 

D-90429 Nuremberg 

Germany 

 

 

B. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS REGARDING SUPPLY AND USE 
 

Medicinal product subject to restricted medical prescription (see Annex I: Summary of Product 

Characteristics, section 4.2). 

 

 

C. OTHER CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS OF THE MARKETING 

AUTHORISATION 
 

 Periodic safety update reports (PSURs) 
 

The requirements for submission of PSURs for this medicinal product are set out in the list of 

Union reference dates (EURD list) provided for under Article 107c(7) of Directive 2001/83/EC 

and any subsequent updates published on the European medicines web-portal. The PSUR cycle 

of Extavia is aligned with the cross-referred product, Betaferon, until otherwise specified. 

 

 

D. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS WITH REGARD TO THE SAFE AND 

EFFECTIVE USE OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 

 

 Risk management plan (RMP) 
 

The marketing authorisation holder (MAH) shall perform the required pharmacovigilance activities 

and interventions detailed in the agreed RMP presented in Module 1.8.2 of the marketing authorisation 

and any agreed subsequent updates of the RMP. 

 

An updated RMP should be submitted: 

 At the request of the European Medicines Agency; 

 Whenever the risk management system is modified, especially as the result of new information 
being received that may lead to a significant change to the benefit/risk profile or as the result of 

an important (pharmacovigilance or risk minimisation) milestone being reached. 

 

  



 

21 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ANNEX III 

 

LABELLING AND PACKAGE LEAFLET 

  



 

22 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A. LABELLING 

  



 

23 

 

PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER PACKAGING 

 

CARTON FOR UNIT PACK 

 

 

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 

 

Extavia 250 microgram/ml powder and solvent for solution for injection 

interferon beta-1b 

 

 

2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE(S) 

 

1 vial contains 300 microgram (9.6 million IU) interferon beta-1b. 

1 ml contains 250 microgram (8.0 million IU) interferon beta-1b when reconstituted. 

 

 

3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS 

 

Excipients: 

Powder: Human albumin, mannitol. 

Solvent: Sodium chloride, water for injection. 

 

 

4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS 

 

Powder and solvent for solution for injection. 

 

5 vials with powder and 5 pre-filled syringes with 1.2 ml solvent. 

14 vials with powder and 14 pre-filled syringes with 1.2 ml solvent. 

15 vials with powder and 15 pre-filled syringes with 1.2 ml solvent. 

14 vials with powder and 15 pre-filled syringes with 1.2 ml solvent. 

 

 

5. METHOD AND ROUTE OF ADMINISTRATION 

 

For subcutaneous use after reconstitution with 1.2 ml of solvent. 

Single use. 

Read the package leaflet before use. 

 

 

6. SPECIAL WARNING THAT THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT MUST BE STORED OUT 

OF THE SIGHT AND REACH OF CHILDREN 

 

Keep out of the sight and reach of children. 

 

 

7. OTHER SPECIAL WARNING(S), IF NECESSARY 

 

 



 

24 

8. EXPIRY DATE 

 

EXP 

 

After reconstitution immediate use is recommended. In-use stability demonstrated for 3 hours at 

2°C - 8°C. 

 

 

9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS 

 

Do not store above 25°C. 

Do not freeze. 

 

 

10. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICINAL PRODUCTS 

OR WASTE MATERIALS DERIVED FROM SUCH MEDICINAL PRODUCTS, IF 

APPROPRIATE 

 

 

11. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 

 

Novartis Europharm Limited 

Vista Building 

Elm Park, Merrion Road 

Dublin 4 

Ireland 

 

 

12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER 

 

EU/1/08/454/008 15 vials with powder and 15 pre-filled syringes with solvent 

EU/1/08/454/010 5 vials with powder and 5 pre-filled syringes with solvent 

EU/1/08/454/011 14 vials with powder and 14 pre-filled syringes with solvent 

EU/1/08/454/013 14 vials with powder and 15 pre-filled syringes with solvent 

 

 

13. BATCH NUMBER 

 

Lot 

 

 

14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY 

 

 

15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE 

 

 

16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE 

 

Extavia 

 

 



 

25 

17. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER – 2D BARCODE 

 

2D barcode carrying the unique identifier included. 

 

 

18. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER - HUMAN READABLE DATA 

 

PC 

SN 

NN 

  



 

26 

 

PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER PACKAGING 

 

OUTER CARTON OF MULTIPACK (INCLUDING BLUE BOX) 

 

 

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 

 

Extavia 250 microgram/ml powder and solvent for solution for injection 

interferon beta-1b 

 

 

2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE(S) 

 

1 vial contains 300 microgram (9.6 million IU) interferon beta-1b. 

1 ml contains 250 microgram (8.0 million IU) interferon beta-1b when reconstituted. 

 

 

3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS 

 

Excipients: 

Powder: Human albumin, mannitol. 

Solvent: Sodium chloride, water for injection. 

 

 

4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS 

 

Powder and solvent for solution for injection 

 

3-month multipack: 42 (3 packs of 14) vials with powder and 42 (3 packs of 14) pre-filled syringes 

with 1.2 ml solvent. 

3-month multipack: 45 (3 packs of 15) vials with powder and 45 (3 packs of 15) pre-filled syringes 

with 1.2 ml solvent. 

3-month multipack: 42 (3 packs of 14) vials with powder and 45 (3 packs of 15) pre-filled syringes 

with 1.2 ml solvent. 

 

 

5. METHOD AND ROUTE OF ADMINISTRATION 

 

For subcutaneous use after reconstitution with 1.2 ml of solvent. 

Single use. 

Read the package leaflet before use. 

 

 

6. SPECIAL WARNING THAT THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT MUST BE STORED OUT 

OF THE SIGHT AND REACH OF CHILDREN 

 

Keep out of the sight and reach of children. 

 

 

7. OTHER SPECIAL WARNING(S), IF NECESSARY 

 

 



 

27 

8. EXPIRY DATE 

 

EXP 

 

After reconstitution immediate use is recommended. In-use stability demonstrated for 3 hours at 

2°C - 8°C. 

 

 

9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS 

 

Do not store above 25°C. 

Do not freeze. 

 

 

10. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICINAL PRODUCTS 

OR WASTE MATERIALS DERIVED FROM SUCH MEDICINAL PRODUCTS, IF 

APPROPRIATE 

 

 

11. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 

 

Novartis Europharm Limited 

Vista Building 

Elm Park, Merrion Road 

Dublin 4 

Ireland 

 

 

12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER 

 

EU/1/08/454/009 3-month multipack comprising 45 vials with powder and 45 pre-filled 

syringes with solvent 

EU/1/08/454/012 3-month multipack comprising 42 vials with powder and 42 pre-filled 

syringes with solvent 

EU/1/08/454/014 3-month multipack comprising 42 vials with powder and 45 pre-filled 

syringes with solvent 

 

 

13. BATCH NUMBER 

 

Lot 

 

 

14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY 

 

 

15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE 

 

 

16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE 

 

Extavia 

 

 



 

28 

17. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER – 2D BARCODE 

 

2D barcode carrying the unique identifier included. 

 

 

18. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER - HUMAN READABLE DATA 

 

PC 

SN 

NN 

  



 

29 

 

PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER PACKAGING 

 

INTERMEDIATE CARTON OF MULTIPACK (WITHOUT BLUE BOX) 

 

 

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 

 

Extavia 250 microgram/ml powder and solvent for solution for injection 

interferon beta-1b 

 

 

2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE(S) 

 

1 vial contains 300 microgram (9.6 million IU) interferon beta-1b. 

1 ml contains 250 microgram (8.0 million IU) interferon beta-1b when reconstituted. 

 

 

3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS 

 

Excipients: 

Powder: Human albumin, mannitol. 

Solvent: Sodium chloride, water for injection. 

 

 

4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS 

 

Powder and solvent for solution for injection 

 

14 vials with powder and 14 pre-filled syringes with 1.2 ml solvent. Component of a 3-month 

multipack. Not to be sold separately. 

15 vials with powder and 15 pre-filled syringes with 1.2 ml solvent. Component of a 3-month 

multipack. Not to be sold separately. 

14 vials with powder and 15 pre-filled syringes with 1.2 ml solvent. Component of a 3-month 

multipack. Not to be sold separately. 

 

 

5. METHOD AND ROUTE OF ADMINISTRATION 

 

For subcutaneous use after reconstitution with 1.2 ml of solvent. 

Single use. 

Read the package leaflet before use. 

 

 

6. SPECIAL WARNING THAT THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT MUST BE STORED OUT 

OF THE SIGHT AND REACH OF CHILDREN 

 

Keep out of the sight and reach of children. 

 

 

7. OTHER SPECIAL WARNING(S), IF NECESSARY 

 

 



 

30 

8. EXPIRY DATE 

 

EXP 

 

After reconstitution immediate use is recommended. In-use stability demonstrated for 3 hours at 

2°C - 8°C. 

 

 

9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS 

 

Do not store above 25°C. 

Do not freeze. 

 

 

10. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICINAL PRODUCTS 

OR WASTE MATERIALS DERIVED FROM SUCH MEDICINAL PRODUCTS, IF 

APPROPRIATE 

 

 

11. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 

 

Novartis Europharm Limited 

Vista Building 

Elm Park, Merrion Road 

Dublin 4 

Ireland 

 

 

12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER 

 

EU/1/08/454/009 3-month multipack comprising 45 vials with powder and 45 pre-filled 

syringes with solvent 

EU/1/08/454/012 3-month multipack comprising 42 vials with powder and 42 pre-filled 

syringes with solvent 

EU/1/08/454/014 3-month multipack comprising 42 vials with powder and 45 pre-filled 

syringes with solvent 

 

 

13. BATCH NUMBER 

 

Lot 

 

 

14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY 

 

 

15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE 

 

 

16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE 

 

Extavia 

 

 



 

31 

17. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER – 2D BARCODE 

 

 

18. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER - HUMAN READABLE DATA 

  



 

32 

 

MINIMUM PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON SMALL IMMEDIATE PACKAGING UNITS 

 

VIAL LABEL 

 

 

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT AND ROUTE OF ADMINISTRATION 

 

Extavia 250 microgram/ml powder for solution for injection 

interferon beta-1b 

Subcutaneous use 

 

 

2. METHOD OF ADMINISTRATION 

 

 

3. EXPIRY DATE 

 

EXP 

 

After reconstitution immediate use recommended. In-use stability demonstrated for 3 hours at 

2°C - 8°C. 

 

 

4. BATCH NUMBER 

 

Lot 

 

 

5. CONTENTS BY WEIGHT, BY VOLUME OR BY UNIT 

 

250 microgram (8.0 million IU) per ml after reconstitution. 

 

 

6. OTHER 

 

  



 

33 

 

MINIMUM PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON BLISTERS OR STRIPS 

 

BLISTER OF PRE-FILLED SYRINGE 

 

 

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT 

 

Solvent for reconstitution of Extavia 

1.2 ml sodium chloride solution 5.4 mg/ml 

 

 

2. NAME OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER 

 

Novartis Europharm Limited 

 

 

3. EXPIRY DATE 

 

EXP 

 

 

4. BATCH NUMBER 

 

Lot 

 

 

5. OTHER 

 

Read the package leaflet before use. 

 

  



 

34 

 

MINIMUM PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON SMALL IMMEDIATE PACKAGING UNITS 

 

LABEL OF PRE-FILLED SYRINGE 

 

 

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT AND ROUTE OF ADMINISTRATION 

 

Solvent for Extavia 

For subcutaneous use after reconstitution. 

 

 

2. METHOD OF ADMINISTRATION 

 

 

3. EXPIRY DATE 

 

EXP 

 

 

4. BATCH NUMBER 

 

Lot 

 

 

5. CONTENTS BY WEIGHT, BY VOLUME OR BY UNIT 

 

1.2 ml sodium chloride solution 5.4 mg/ml 

 

 

6. OTHER 

 

0.25 / 0.5 / 0.75 / 1.0 

 

  



 

35 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

B. PACKAGE LEAFLET 



 

36 

Package leaflet: Information for the user 

 

Extavia 250 microgram/ml powder and solvent for solution for injection 

interferon beta-1b 

 

Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start using this medicine because it contains 

important information for you. 
- Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again. 
- If you have any further questions, ask your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. 
- This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not pass it on to others. It may harm them, 

even if their signs of illness are the same as yours. 

- If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible 
side effects not listed in this leaflet. See section 4. 

 

What is in this leaflet 

 

1. What Extavia is and what it is used for 

2. What you need to know before you use Extavia 

3. How to use Extavia 

4. Possible side effects 

5. How to store Extavia 

6. Contents of the pack and other information 

 Annex – self-injection procedure 

 

 

1. What Extavia is and what it is used for 
 

What Extavia is 
Extavia is a type of medicine known as interferon used to treat multiple sclerosis. Interferons are 

proteins produced by the body that help it fight against attacks on the immune system such as viral 

infections. 
 

How Extavia works 
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a long-term condition that affects the central nervous system (CNS), 

particularly the functioning of the brain and spinal cord. In MS, inflammation destroys the protective 

sheath (called myelin) around the nerves of the CNS and stops the nerves from working properly. This 

is called demyelination. 

 

The exact cause of MS is unknown. An abnormal response by the body’s immune system is thought to 

play an important part in the process which damages the CNS. 

 

The damage to the CNS can occur within an MS attack (relapse). It can cause temporary disability, 

such as difficulty walking. Symptoms may disappear completely or partly. 

 

Interferon beta-1b has been shown to change the response of the immune system and to help to reduce 

disease activity. 

 

How Extavia helps fight your disease 
Single clinical event indicating a high risk of developing multiple sclerosis: Extavia has been 

shown to delay progression to definite multiple sclerosis. 

 

Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: People with relapsing-remitting MS have occasional attacks 

or relapses during which symptoms become noticeably worse. Extavia has been shown to cut down the 

number of attacks and make them less severe. It reduces the number of hospital stays due to the 

disease and prolongs the time without relapses. 

 



 

37 

Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis: In some cases people with relapsing-remitting MS find 

that their symptoms increase and they progress to another form of MS called secondary progressive 

MS. With this, people find themselves becoming increasingly impaired, whether or not they have 

relapses. Extavia can reduce the number and severity of the attacks, and slow the progression of 

disability. 

 

What Extavia is used for 

Extavia is for use in patients  

► who have experienced for the first time symptoms which indicate a high risk of developing 

multiple sclerosis. Your doctor will rule out any other reasons which could explain these 

symptoms before you are treated. 

► who suffer from relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, with at least two relapses within 
the last two years. 

► who suffer from secondary progressive multiple sclerosis with active disease shown by 

relapses. 
 

 

2. What you need to know before you use Extavia 
 

Do not use Extavia 

- if you are allergic to natural or recombinant interferon beta, human albumin or any of the other 
ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6). 

- if you currently suffer from severe depression and/or suicidal thoughts (see “Warnings and 
precautions” and section 4, “Possible side effects”). 

- if you have a severe liver disease (see “Warnings and precautions”, “Other medicines and 

Extavia” and section 4, “Possible side effects”). 

 

► Tell your doctor, if any of the above applies to you. 

 

Warnings and precautions 

 

Talk to your doctor before using Extavia: 

 

- If you have monoclonal gammopathy. This is a disorder of the immune system where an 

abnormal protein is found in the blood. Problems with your small blood vessels (capillaries) 

may develop (systemic capillary leak syndrome) when using medicines like Extavia. This can 

lead to shock (collapse) and even be fatal. 

 

- If you have had depression or are depressed or previously had thoughts of suicide. Your 
doctor will closely monitor you during treatment. If your depression and/or suicidal thoughts are 

severe, you will not be prescribed Extavia (see also “Do not use Extavia”). 

 

- If you have ever had seizures or if you are taking medicines to treat epilepsy (anti-

epileptics), you doctor will monitor your treatment carefully (see also “Other medicines and 

Extavia” and section 4, “Possible side effects”). 

 

- If you have severe kidney problems, your doctor may monitor your kidney function during 

treatment. 

 

- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to latex. The tip cap of the pre-filled syringe 
contains a derivative of natural rubber latex. Therefore, the tip cap may contain natural rubber 

latex. 

 

  



 

38 

Your doctor also needs to know the following whilst you are using Extavia: 

 

- If you experience symptoms such as itching all over your body, swelling of your face 

and/or your tongue or sudden shortness of breath. These may be symptoms of a serious 

allergic reaction, which may become life threatening. 

 

- If you feel noticeably more sad or hopeless than before the treatment with Extavia, or if 

you develop thoughts of suicide. If you become depressed while you are on Extavia, you may 

need special treatment and your doctor will closely monitor you and may also consider stopping 

your treatment. If you suffer from severe depression and/or suicidal thoughts, you will not be 

treated with Extavia (see also “Do not use Extavia”). 

 

- If you notice any unusual bruising, excessive bleeding after injury or if you seem to be 
catching a lot of infections. These may be symptoms of a fall in your blood cell count or in the 

number of platelets in your blood (cells, which help the blood to clot). You may need extra 

monitoring by your doctor. 

 

- If you experience loss of appetite, tiredness, feeling sick (nausea), repeated vomiting, and 
especially if you notice widespread itching, yellowing of the skin or of the whites of the 

eyes, or easy bruising. These symptoms may suggest problems with your liver. Changes to 

liver function values occurred in patients treated with Extavia during clinical studies. As for 

other beta interferons, severe liver damage, including cases of liver failure, have been reported 

rarely in patients taking Extavia. The most serious were reported in patients taking other 

medicines or who were suffering from diseases that can affect the liver (e.g. alcohol abuse, 

severe infection). 

 

- If you experience symptoms such as irregular heartbeat, swelling such as of the ankles or 

legs, or shortness of breath. This may suggest a disease of the heart muscle (cardiomyopathy) 

which has been reported in patients using Extavia. 

 

- If you notice pain in your belly which is radiating to your back, and/or you feel sick or 
have a fever. This may suggest an inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), which has been 

reported with Extavia use. This is often associated with an increase in certain blood fats 

(triglycerides). 

 

► Stop using Extavia and tell your doctor immediately if any of these happens to you. 
 

  



 

39 

Other things to consider when using Extavia: 

 

- You will need blood tests to determine your blood cell count, blood chemistry and your liver 

enzymes. These will be performed before you start using Extavia, regularly after treatment 

with Extavia has been initiated and then periodically during treatment, even if you have no 

particular symptoms. These blood tests will be in addition to the tests which are normally done 

to monitor your MS. 

 

- If you have a heart disease, the flu-like symptoms which often occur at the start of 

treatment may prove stressful to you. Extavia must be used with caution, and your doctor will 

monitor you for worsening of your heart condition, particularly at the start of treatment. Extavia 

itself does not affect the heart directly. 

 

- The functioning of your thyroid gland will be checked regularly or whenever thought 

necessary by your doctor for other reasons. 

 

- Extavia contains human albumin and therefore carries a potential risk for transmission of 
viral diseases. A risk of transmission of Creutzfeld-Jacob disease (CJD) cannot be ruled out. 

 

- During treatment with Extavia your body may produce substances called neutralising 
antibodies, which may react with Extavia. It is not yet clear whether these neutralising 

antibodies reduce the effectiveness of the treatment. Neutralising antibodies are not produced in 

all patients. Currently it is not possible to predict which patients belong to this group. 

 

- During treatment with Extavia, kidney problems that may reduce your kidney function, 
including scarring (glomerulosclerosis), may occur. Your doctor may perform tests to check 

your kidney function. 

 

- Blood clots in the small blood vessels may occur during your treatment. These blood clots 
could affect your kidneys. This might happen several weeks to several years after starting 

Extavia. Your doctor may want to check your blood pressure, blood (platelet count) and the 

function of your kidneys. 

 

- Pale or yellow skin or dark-coloured urine, possibly accompanied by unusual dizziness, 
tiredness or shortness of breath may occur during your treatment. These may be symptoms 

of a breakdown of red blood cells. This might happen several weeks to several years after 

starting Extavia. Your doctor may perform blood tests. Inform your doctor about other 

medicines that you are taking at the same time as Extavia. 

 

Injection site reactions 

During Extavia treatment you are likely to experience injection site reactions. Symptoms include 

redness, swelling, change in skin colour, inflammation, pain, and hypersensitivity. Skin breakdown 

and tissue damage (necrosis) around the injection site are reported less frequently. Injection site 

reactions usually become less frequent over time. 

 

Injection site skin and tissue breakdown can result in scars forming. If this is severe a doctor may have 

to remove foreign matter and dead tissue (debridement) and, less often, skin grafting is required and 

healing may take up to 6 months. 

 

To reduce the risk of getting injection site reaction you must: 

 use a sterile (aseptic) injection technique, 

 rotate the injection sites with each injection (see Annex Self-Injection procedure). 
 

Injection site reactions may occur less frequently if you use an auto-injector device. Your doctor or 

nurse can tell you more about this. 

 



 

40 

If you experience any break in the skin, associated with swelling or fluid leaking out from the 

injection site: 

 

► Stop injecting Extavia and talk to your doctor. 
 

► If you have only one sore injection site (lesion) and the tissue damage (necrosis) is not too 

extensive you may continue using Extavia. 
 

► If you have more than one sore injection sites (multiple lesions) you must stop using Extavia 
until your skin has healed. 

 

Your doctor will regularly check the way you inject yourself, particularly if you have experienced 

injection site reactions. 

 

Children and adolescents 
There have been no formal clinical trials undertaken in children or adolescents. 

However, there are some data available in adolescents aged from 12 to 17 years which suggest that the 

safety of Extavia in this group is the same as in adults. Extavia should not be used in children under 

12 years of age as there is no information available for this age group. 

 

Other medicines and Extavia 

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are using, have recently used or might use any other medicines. 

 

No formal interaction studies have been carried out to find out whether Extavia affects other 

medicines or is affected by them. 

 

Using Extavia with other medicines that modify the immune system response is not recommended, 

except anti-inflammatory medicines called corticosteroids or the adrenocorticotropic hormone 

(ACTH). 

 

Extavia should be used with caution with: 

- medicines which need a certain liver enzyme system (known as cytochrome P450 system) for 

their removal from the body, for example medicines used to treat epilepsy (such as phenytoin). 

- medicines which affect the production of blood cells. 

 

Extavia with food and drink 

Extavia is injected under the skin so any food or drink you consume is not thought to have any effect 

on Extavia. 

 

Pregnancy and breast-feeding 
If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or planning to have a baby, ask your 

doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine. 

 

No harmful effects on the breastfed newborn/infant are anticipated. Extavia can be used during 

breast-feeding. 

 

Driving and using machines 
Extavia may cause side effects in the central nervous system (see section 4 “Possible side effects”). If 

you are especially sensitive, this might influence your ability to drive or use machines. 

 

Extavia contains sodium 

This medicinal product contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per ml, i.e. essentially 'sodium-

free'. 

 

 



 

41 

3. How to use Extavia 
 

Treatment with Extavia should be started under the supervision of a doctor who is experienced in the 

treatment of multiple sclerosis. 

 

Always use this medicine exactly as your doctor has told you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if 

you are not sure. 

 

The recommended dose is every other day (once every two days), 1.0 ml of the prepared Extavia 

solution (see Annex “Self-injection procedure” in the second part of this leaflet) injected under the 

skin (subcutaneously). This equals 250 microgram (8.0 million IU) interferon beta-1b. 

 

In general, treatment should be started at a low dose of 0.25 ml (62.5 microgram). Your doses will 

then be increased gradually to the full dose of 1.0 ml (250 microgram). 

The dose should be increased at every fourth injection in four steps (0.25 ml, 0.5 ml, 0.75 ml, 1.0 ml). 

Your doctor may decide together with you to change the time intervals for dose increase depending on 

side effects you may experience at the start of treatment. 

 

Preparing the injection 

Before injection, the Extavia solution has to be prepared from a vial of Extavia powder and 1.2 ml 

of liquid from the pre-filled solvent syringe. This will either be done by your doctor or nurse or by 

yourself after you have been carefully trained. 

 

Detailed instructions for self-injection of Extavia under the skin are provided in the Annex at the 

back of this leaflet. These instructions also tell you how to prepare the Extavia solution for injection. 

 

The injection site must be changed regularly. See section 2 “Warnings and precautions” and follow 

the instructions under “Rotating injection sites” in the Annex at the back of this leaflet. 

 

Duration of treatment 

At present it is not known how long treatment with Extavia should last. The length of treatment will 

be decided by your doctor together with you. 
 

If you use more Extavia than you should 
Giving many times the dose of Extavia recommended for the treatment of multiple sclerosis has not 

led to life-threatening situations. 

 

► Talk to your doctor if you inject too much Extavia or injected too often. 

 

If you forget to use Extavia 

If you have forgotten to give yourself an injection at the right time do it as soon as you remember and 

then follow on with the next one 48 hours later. 

 

Do not inject a double dose to make up for a forgotten individual dose. 

 

If you stop using Extavia 
Talk to your doctor if you stop or wish to stop treatment. Stopping Extavia is not known to cause acute 

withdrawal symptoms. 

 

► If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor, pharmacist or 

nurse. 

 

 

  



 

42 

4. Possible side effects 
 

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. 

 

Extavia may cause serious side effects. If any of the side effects get serious, or if you notice any side 

effects not listed in this leaflet, please tell your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. 

 

► Tell your doctor immediately and stop using Extavia: 
 

- if you experience symptoms such as itching all over your body, swelling of your face and/or 
your tongue or sudden shortness of breath. 

 

- if you feel noticeably more sad or hopeless than before the treatment with Extavia, or if you 
develop thoughts of suicide. 

 

- if you notice any unusual bruising, excessive bleeding after injury or if you seem to be catching 
a lot of infections. 

 

- if you experience loss of appetite, tiredness, feeling sick (nausea), repeated vomiting, especially 
if you notice widespread itching, yellowing of the skin, or of the whites of the eyes or easy 

bruising. 

 

- if you experience symptoms like irregular heart beat, swelling such as of the ankles or legs, or 
shortness of breath. 

 

- if you notice pain in your belly which is radiating to your back , and/or you feel sick or have a 
fever. 

 

► Tell your doctor immediately: 
 

- if you get some or all of these symptoms: foamy urine, fatigue, swelling, particularly and the 
ankles and eyelids, and weight gain, as they may be signs of a possible kidney problem. 

 

At the beginning of treatment side effects are common but in general they decrease with further 

treatment. 

 

The most common side effects are: 

 

► Flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, painful joints, malaise, sweating, headache, or 

muscular pain. These symptoms may be reduced by taking paracetamol or non-steroidal anti-

inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen. 

 

► Injection site reactions. Symptoms can be redness, swelling, discolouration, inflammation, 

pain, hypersensitivity, tissue damage (necrosis). See “Warnings and precautions” in section 2 

for more information and what to do if you experience an injection site reaction. These may be 

reduced by the use of an auto-injector device. Talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse for 

further information. 

 

To reduce the risk of side effects at the start of treatment, your doctor should start you on a low dose 

of Extavia and increase it gradually (see section 3, “How to use Extavia”). 

 

  



 

43 

The following side effects listing is based on reports from clinical trials with Extavia (List 1) and 

from side effects reported on the marketed product (List 2). 
 

List 1:  Very common side effects which have occurred in clinical trials with Extavia (may affect 

more than 1 in 10 people) and at a higher percentage than those observed with placebo. 

The list also includes side effects which occurred commonly (may affect up to 1 in 

10 people) but were significantly associated with the treatment: 

 

- infection, abscess 
- reduced number of white blood cells, swollen lymph glands (lymphadenopathy) 
- decrease in the amount of sugar in the blood (hypoglycaemia) 
- depression, anxiety 
- headache, dizziness, sleeplessness, migraine, numbness or tingling feeling (paraesthesia) 
- eye inflammation (conjunctivitis), abnormal vision 
- ear pain 
- irregular, rapid beating or pulsation of the heart (palpitation) 
- redness and/or facial flushing due to widening of blood vessels(vasodilation), increased blood 

pressure (hypertension) 

- runny nose, cough, hoarseness due to infection of the upper respiratory tract, sinusitis, cough 
increased, shortness of breath (dyspnoea) 

- diarrhoea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain 
- rises in the blood levels of liver enzymes (will show up in blood tests) 
- skin disorder, rash 
- muscle stiffness (hypertonia), painful muscles (myalgia), muscular debility (myasthenia), back 

pain, pain in extremities such as fingers and toes 

- holding urine (urinary retention), protein in the urine (will show up in urine tests), urinary 
frequency, inability to hold back urination (urinary incontinence), urinary urgency 

- painful periods (dysmenorrhoea), menstrual disorder, heavy uterine bleeding (metrorrhagia) 
especially between menstrual periods, impotence 

- injection site reaction (including redness, swelling, discolouration, inflammation, pain, allergic 
reaction, see section 2 “Warnings and precautions”), skin breakdown and tissue damage 

(necrosis) at injection site (see section 2 “Warnings and precautions”) 

- flu-like symptoms, fever, pain, chest pain, accumulation of fluid in arm, leg or face (peripheral 
oedema), lack/loss of strength (asthenia), chills, sweating, general feeling of being unwell. 

 

In addition, the following side effects have been identified during post-marketing experience. 

 
List 2: Side effects reported on the marketed product (frequencies - where known - based 

on clinical trials): 

 
► Very common (may affect more than 1 in 10 people): 

 

- painful joints (arthralgia). 

 

► Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people): 
 

- the number of red cells in the blood may fall (anaemia), 
- the thyroid gland does not work properly (too little hormone is produced) (hypothyroidism), 
- weight increase or decrease, 
- confusion, 
- abnormally rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), 
- a reddish yellow pigment (bilirubin), which is produced by your liver, may rise (this will show 

up in blood tests), 

- swollen and usually itchy patches of skin or mucous membranes (urticaria), 

- itching (pruritus), 
- loss of scalp hair (alopecia), 

- menstrual disorders (menorrhagia). 



 

44 

 

► Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people): 
 

- the number of platelets (which help the blood to clot) may fall (thrombocytopenia), 
- a certain type of blood fats (triglycerides) may increase (will show up in blood tests), see 

section 2 “Warnings and precautions”, 

- suicide attempts, 

- mood swings, 

- convulsion, 

- a specific liver enzyme (gamma GT) which is produced by your liver, may rise (this will show 

up in blood tests), 

- inflammation of the liver (hepatitis), 

- skin discolouration. 

 

► Rare (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people): 

 

- serious allergic (anaphylactic) reactions, 

- the thyroid gland does not work properly(thyroid disorders), too much hormone is 

produced (hyperthyroidism), 

- inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), see section 2 “Warnings and precautions”, 

- blood clots in the small blood vessels that can affect your kidneys (thrombotic 

thrombocytopenic purpura or haemolytic uraemic syndrome). Symptoms may include increased 

bruising, bleeding, fever, extreme weakness, headache, dizziness or light-headedness. Your 

doctor may find changes in your blood and the function of your kidneys. 

 

Side effects derived only during post marketing: 
 

- breakdown of red blood cells (haemolytic anaemia) (frequency unknown). 

- kidney problems including scarring (glomerulosclerosis) that may reduce your kidney 

function, (uncommon). 

- severe loss of appetite leading to weight loss (anorexia), (rare). 

- disease of the heart muscle (cardiomyopathy), (rare). 

- sudden shortness of breath (bronchospasm), (rare). 

- the liver does not work properly (hepatic injury [including hepatitis], hepatic failure), (rare). 

- problems with your small blood vessels (capillaries) may develop when using medicines like 

Extavia (systemic capillary leak syndrome), (frequency unknown). 

- rash, redness of the skin in the face, joint pain, fever, weakness and others caused by the 

medicine (drug-induced lupus erythematosus), frequency unknown. 

- severe narrowing of the blood vessels in the lungs resulting in high blood pressure in the blood 

vessels that carry blood from the heart to the lungs (pulmonary arterial hypertension), 

(frequency unknown). Pulmonary arterial hypertension has been seen at various time points 

during treatment, including several years after starting treatment with Extavia. 

 

Reporting of side effects 
If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side 

effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the national reporting 

system listed in Appendix V. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the 

safety of this medicine. 

 

 

  

http://www.ema.europa.eu/docs/en_GB/document_library/Template_or_form/2013/03/WC500139752.doc


 

45 

5. How to store Extavia 

 

Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children. 

 

Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the pack. The expiry date refers to the 

last day of that month. 

 

Do not store above 25°C. Do not freeze. 

 

After preparing the solution you should use it immediately. However, if you are not able to do so, it 

will remain usable for a period of 3 hours, if kept in a refrigerator (2°C - 8°C). 

 

Do not use this medicine if you notice it contains particles or is discoloured. 

 

Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to 

throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment. 

 

 

6. Contents of the pack and other information 

 

What Extavia contains 

 The active substance is interferon beta-1b. Each vial contains 300 microgram (9.6 million IU) 
interferon beta-1b per vial. After reconstitution, each millilitre contains 250 microgram 

(8.0 million IU) interferon beta-1b. 

 The other ingredients are 

 in the powder: mannitol and human albumin. 

 in the solvent: sodium chloride, water for injection. 
 

The tip cap of the pre-filled syringe contains a derivative of natural rubber latex. Therefore, the tip cap 

may contain natural rubber latex. 

 

What Extavia looks like and contents of the pack 

Extavia is a powder and solvent for solution for injection. 

 

The powder is white to off-white in colour. 

The Extavia powder is provided in a 3-millilitre vial. 

The solvent is a clear/colourless solution. 

The solvent for Extavia is provided in a 2.25 ml pre-filled syringe and contains 1.2 ml sodium chloride 

5.4 mg/ml (0.54% w/v) solution for injection. 

 

Extavia is available in pack sizes of: 

 5 vials of interferon beta-1b and 5 pre-filled syringes containing solvent. 

 14 vials of interferon beta-1b and 14 pre-filled syringes containing solvent. 

 15 vials of interferon beta-1b and 15 pre-filled syringes containing solvent. 

 14 vials of interferon beta-1b and 15 pre-filled syringes containing solvent. 
 

 3-month multipack containing 42 (3x14) vials of interferon beta-1b and 42 (3x14) pre-filled 
syringes containing solvent. 

 3-month multipack containing 45 (3x15) vials of interferon beta-1b and 45 (3x15) pre-filled 
syringes containing solvent. 

 3-month multipack containing 42 (3x14) vials of interferon beta-1b and 45 (3x15) pre-filled 
syringes containing solvent. 

 

Not all pack sizes may be marketed. 

 



 

46 

Marketing Authorisation Holder 

Novartis Europharm Limited 

Vista Building 

Elm Park, Merrion Road 

Dublin 4 

Ireland 

 

Manufacturer 

Novartis Pharma GmbH 

Roonstrasse 25 

D-90429 Nuremberg 

Germany 

 

For any information about this medicine, please contact the local representative of the Marketing 

Authorisation Holder: 

 

België/Belgique/Belgien 

Novartis Pharma N.V. 

Tél/Tel: +32 2 246 16 11 

 

Lietuva 

SIA Novartis Baltics Lietuvos filialas 

Tel: +370 5 269 16 50 

 

България 

Novartis Bulgaria EOOD 

Тел.: +359 2 489 98 28 

 

Luxembourg/Luxemburg 

Novartis Pharma N.V. 

Tél/Tel: +32 2 246 16 11 

 

Česká republika 

Novartis s.r.o. 

Tel: +420 225 775 111 

 

Magyarország 

Novartis Hungária Kft. 

Tel.: +36 1 457 65 00 

Danmark 

Novartis Healthcare A/S 

Tlf: +45 39 16 84 00 

 

Malta 

Novartis Pharma Services Inc. 

Tel: +356 2122 2872 

Deutschland 

Novartis Pharma GmbH 

Tel: +49 911 273 0 

 

Nederland 

Novartis Pharma B.V. 

Tel: +31 88 04 52 111 

Eesti 

SIA Novartis Baltics Eesti filiaal 

Tel: +372 66 30 810 

 

Norge 

Novartis Norge AS 

Tlf: +47 23 05 20 00 

Ελλάδα 

Novartis (Hellas) A.E.B.E. 

Τηλ: +30 210 281 17 12 

 

Österreich 

Novartis Pharma GmbH 

Tel: +43 1 86 6570 

España 

Novartis Farmacéutica, S.A. 

Tel: +34 93 306 42 00 

 

Polska 

Novartis Poland Sp. z o.o. 

Tel.: +48 22 375 4888 

France 

Novartis Pharma S.A.S. 

Tél: +33 1 55 47 66 00 

 

Portugal 

Novartis Farma - Produtos Farmacêuticos, S.A. 

Tel: +351 21 000 8600 

Hrvatska 

Novartis Hrvatska d.o.o. 

Tel. +385 1 6274 220 

 

România 

Novartis Pharma Services Romania SRL 

Tel: +40 21 31299 01 



 

47 

Ireland 

Novartis Ireland Limited 

Tel: +353 1 260 12 55 

 

Slovenija 

Novartis Pharma Services Inc. 

Tel: +386 1 300 75 50 

Ísland 

Vistor hf. 

Sími: +354 535 7000 

 

Slovenská republika 

Novartis Slovakia s.r.o. 

Tel: +421 2 5542 5439 

 

Italia 

Novartis Farma S.p.A. 

Tel: +39 02 96 54 1 

Suomi/Finland 

Novartis Finland Oy 

Puh/Tel: +358 (0)10 6133 200 

 

Κύπρος 

Novartis Pharma Services Inc. 

Τηλ: +357 22 690 690 

 

Sverige 

Novartis Sverige AB 

Tel: +46 8 732 32 00 

 

Latvija 

SIA Novartis Baltics 

Tel: +371 67 887 070 

 

United Kingdom 

Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Ltd. 

Tel: +44 1276 698370 

 

 

This leaflet was last revised in 
 

Other sources of information 

 

Detailed information on this medicine is available on the European Medicines Agency web site: 

http://www.ema.europa.eu 

 

http://www.ema.europa.eu/


 

48 

Annex: SELF-INJECTION PROCEDURE 

 

The following instructions and pictures explain how to prepare Extavia for injection and how to inject 

Extavia yourself. Please read the instructions carefully and follow them step by step. Your doctor or 

nurse will help you to learn the process of self-administration. Do not attempt to inject yourself until 

you are sure that you understand how to prepare the injection solution and give the injection to 

yourself. 

 

PART I: STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS 

 

The instructions include the following main steps: 

A) General advice 

B) Getting ready to inject 

C) Reconstituting and drawing up the solution for injection, step by step 

D) Making the injection manually (to make an injection with the ExtaviPro 30G auto-

injector, refer to the instructions for use provided with the auto-injector) 

 

A) General advice 

 

 Getting off to a good start! 
 

You will find that within a few weeks your treatment will become a natural part of your routine. As 

you get started, you may find the following tips helpful: 

 

- Set up a permanent storage area in a convenient location out of the sight and reach of children 

so that your Extavia and other supplies are always easy to find. 

For details on storage conditions see section 5 of the leaflet, “How to store Extavia”. 

 

- Try to give yourself the injection at the same time each day. This makes it easier to remember 

and easier to plan a block of time when you will not be interrupted. 

Please refer to section 3 of the leaflet, “How to use Extavia”, for further details on how to use 

Extavia. 

 

- Prepare each dose only when you are ready for an injection. After mixing Extavia, you should 

administer the injection immediately (if this medicine is not used immediately, see section 5 of 

the leaflet, “How to store Extavia”). 

 

 Important tips to keep in mind 
 

- Be consistent - use this medicine as described in section 3 of the leaflet, “How to use Extavia”. 

Always double-check your dosage. 

- Keep your syringes and syringe disposal unit out of the sight and reach of children; lock the 

supplies away if possible. 

- Never re-use syringes or needles. 

- Always use a sterile (aseptic) technique as described in here. 

- Always place the used syringes in the proper disposal unit. 

 

  



 

49 

B) Getting ready to inject 

 

 Choosing an injection site 
 

Before preparing your injection, decide where you are going to inject. You should inject this medicine 

into the fatty layer between the skin and muscle (that is, subcutaneously, about 8 mm to 12 mm under 

the skin). The best places for injections are where the skin is loose and soft, and away from joints, 

nerves and bones, for example the abdomen, arm, thigh or buttocks. 

 

Important: 

 

The tip cap of the pre-filled syringe contains a derivative of natural rubber latex. Therefore, the tip cap 

may contain natural rubber latex. If you are allergic to latex, talk to your doctor before using Extavia. 

 

Do not use any area where you can feel lumps, bumps, firm knots, pain or an area that is discoloured, 

indented, scabbed, or where the skin is broken. Talk to your doctor or nurse about these or any other 

unusual conditions you may find. 

 

You should rotate the injection site at every injection. If some areas are too difficult for you to reach, 

you may need a family member or friend to help you with these injections. Follow the sequence 

described in the schedule at the end of the Annex (see Part II “Rotating injection sites”) and you will 

come back to your first injection site area after 8 injections (16 days). This will give each injection site 

a chance to fully recover before receiving another injection. 

 

Please refer to the rotation schedule at the end of this Annex to learn how to choose an injection site. 

An example of a medication record is also included (see Annex Part III). This should give you an idea 

of how you can keep track of your injection sites and dates. 

 

 Medicine 
 

You will need the medicine: 

 1 Extavia vial (with powder for solution for injection) 

 1 pre-filled syringe of solvent for Extavia (sodium chloride solution) 
 

To reconstitute and inject your medicine you will need to use an ExtaviPro 30G application kit 

(supplied separately to your medicine), which contains the following components and instructions on 

how to use them: 

 Vial adapters for use when reconstituting your medicine 

 30-gauge needles for injecting your medicine 

 Alcohol swabs 
 

You will also need a disposal unit for used syringes and needles. 

 

The 30-gauge needles provided with the application kit for the administration of this medicine can be 

used either for manual injection OR with an ExtaviPro 30G auto-injector. 

 

For skin disinfection use an appropriate disinfectant recommended by your pharmacist. 

 

  



 

50 

C) Reconstituting and drawing up the solution for injection, step by step 

 

 

1 - Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before beginning 

this process. 

 

2 - Remove the flip off cap from the Extavia vial. It is best to use your 

thumb rather than your nail, as your nail could break. Put the vial on 

the table. 

 

3 - Clean the top of the vial with an alcohol swab, moving the swab in 

one direction only. Leave the swab on top of the vial. 

 

4 - Peel back and remove the cover from the vial adapter packaging. 

Do not remove the vial adapter from its packaging. 

 

5 - Remove the swab from the top of the vial. 

Use the packaging to handle the vial adapter. Attach it to the vial by 

pushing down until the vial adapter penetrates and locks around the 

top of the vial. 

 

6 - Holding the edges securely, remove and discard the packaging 

ensuring the vial adapter remains on the vial. 



 

51 

 

7 - Take out the pre-filled solvent syringe from its package. Snap off 

and discard the tip of the syringe. 

Note: Be careful not to touch the exposed end of the syringe. Do not 

push the plunger. 

 

8 - Holding the vial and adapter securely, screw the syringe fully onto 

the vial adapter. 

This forms the syringe-vial assembly. 

 

9 - Hold the syringe-vial assembly at a slight angle. Push the plunger 

down slowly so that the liquid runs down the inside of the vial. 

Transfer all the solvent to the vial. 

Note: Do not shake the vial as this may cause excessive foaming. 

 

10 - Hold the vial between your thumb and fingers. Swirl the syringe-

vial assembly gently until the powder is completely dissolved. 

Note: Do not shake the vial. 

 

11 - Examine the solution carefully. It should be clear and contain no 

particles. 

Note: If the solution is discoloured or contains particles, discard it and 

start again with a new syringe and vial from your package. 

If excessive foaming is present – which can happen if the vial is 

shaken or swirled too vigorously – let the vial sit undisturbed until the 

foam settles. 

 

12 - Ensure the plunger stays fully pushed in before proceeding to the 

next step, as it may have moved. 

 

13 - Turn the syringe-vial-assembly so that the vial is at the top. 

Slowly pull the plunger back to draw all of the solution into the 

syringe. 



 

52 

 

14 - Remove any excess air bubbles by gently tapping the syringe. 

Push the plunger to the 1 ml mark (or to the volume prescribed by 

your doctor). 

Note: It may be necessary to adjust the plunger position back and forth 

a few times to ensure the excess air bubbles are gone and there is 1 ml 

of solution in the syringe. 

 

15 - Unscrew the syringe, leaving the vial adapter on the vial. 

Dispose of the vial and the remaining unused portion of the solution 

into the disposal unit. 

 

16 - Take the needle out of its wrapping and screw it firmly onto the 

top of the syringe. 

 

17 - Leave the needle cap on. You are now ready to manually inject 

yourself or to use the ExtaviPro 30G auto-injector for the 

administration of Extavia. 

Storage after reconstitution 

If, for some reason, you are not able to inject Extavia immediately, you can refrigerate the 

reconstituted solution for up to 3 hours before using it. Do not freeze the solution, and do not wait 

longer than 3 hours to inject it. If more than 3 hours pass, discard the medicine and prepare a 

new injection. When you use the solution, warm it up by holding the syringe or vial in your hands 

before injecting to avoid pain. 

 

 



 

53 

D) Making the injection manually (to make an injection with the ExtaviPro 30G auto-

injector, refer to the instructions for use provided with the auto-injector) 

 

 1 - Choose a site for the injection (refer to the section “Choosing an 

injection site” and the diagrams at the end of this leaflet) and make a 

note of it in your medication record. 

 

 

2 - Use an alcohol swab to clean the skin at the injection site. Let the 

skin air-dry. Throw the swab away. 

 

3 - Remove the cap from the needle by pulling and not twisting it. 

 

 

 

4 - Where possible gently pinch the skin together around the disinfected 

injection site (to raise it up a little). 

 

5 - Holding the syringe like a pencil or a dart, push the needle straight 

into the skin at a 90˚ angle with a quick, firm motion. 

 

6 - Inject the medicine (by pushing the plunger slowly and steadily all 

the way in until the syringe is empty). 

 7 - Discard the syringe in the disposal unit. 

 

 



 

54 

PART II: ROTATING INJECTION SITES 

 

You need to choose a new site for each injection to allow the area time to recover and help prevent 

infection. Advice on which areas to choose is given in the first part of this Annex. It is a good idea to 

know where you plan to inject before you prepare your syringe. The schedule shown in the diagram 

below will help you to vary the sites appropriately. For example, give the first injection into the right 

side of the abdomen, choose the left side for the second injection, then move to the right thigh for the 

third, and so on through the diagram until all suitable areas of the body have been used. Keep a record 

of where and when you last gave yourself an injection. One way to do that is to note the injection site 

on the enclosed medication record card. 

 

By following this schedule, you will come back to your first area (e.g. the right side of the abdomen) 

after 8 injections (16 days). This is called a Rotation Cycle. On our example schedule each area is split 

again into 6 injection sites (which adds up to 48 injection sites altogether), left and right: upper, 

middle and lower part of each area. If you come back to an area after one Rotation Cycle choose the 

most distant injection site within this area. If an area becomes sore, talk to your doctor or nurse about 

choosing other injection sites. 

 

Rotation schedule 

To help you rotate the injection sites appropriately, we recommend that you keep a record of the date 

and location of your injection. You can use the following rotation schedule. 

 

Work through each rotation cycle in turn. Each cycle will be 8 injections (16 days), given in area 1 

through to area 8 in turn. By following this sequence, you will give each area a chance to recover 

before receiving another injection. 

 

Rotation Cycle 1: Upper left section of each area 

Rotation Cycle 2: Lower right section of each area 

Rotation Cycle 3: Middle left section of each area 

Rotation Cycle 4 Upper right section of each area 

Rotation Cycle 5: Lower left section of each area 

Rotation Cycle 6: Middle right section of each area 



 

55 

PART III: EXTAVIA Medication record 

 

Instructions for keeping track of your injection sites and dates 

 

 Start with your first injection (or your last injection if you are not a new Extavia user). 
 

 Select an injection site. If you have already been using Extavia start with the area that has not 
been used during the last rotation cycle (i.e. the past 16 days). 

 

 After your injection, fill in the used injection site and date in the table in your injection record 
(see the example: Keeping track of your injection sites and dates). 

 

  



 

56 

ROTATION SCHEDULE: 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 AREA 1 

 AREA 3 

 AREA 5 

 AREA 2 

 AREA 4 

 AREA 6 

 AREA 8  AREA 7 

10 – 15 cm 
from groin 



 

57 

 

EXAMPLE OF A MEDICATION RECORD: 

 

 


	SUMMARY OF PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS
	A. MANUFACTURER OF THE BIOLOGICAL ACTIVE SUBSTANCE AND MANUFACTURER RESPONSIBLE FOR BATCH RELEASE
	B. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS REGARDING SUPPLY AND USE
	C. OTHER CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION
	D. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS WITH REGARD TO THE SAFE AND EFFECTIVE USE OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT
	A. LABELLING
	B. PACKAGE LEAFLET