Timing of IFNb injections influences side effects

Many people with MS who use an IFNb therapy do their injections at night so that they can sleep through side effects such as flu-like symptoms. However, a recent study suggests that injecting in the morning may minimize side effects such as fever. This study was performed with 16 people who were just starting IFNb therapy. Half were given injections at 8 am and the other half at 6 pm. The evening injectors experienced more intense systemic side effects than the morning injectors; the evening injectors also had greater increase of cytokines like IL-6. After six months of treatment, however, all side effects had ceased as had most of the blood chemistry changes.

The investigators believe that natural fluctuations of hormones and cytokines over the course of the day and night affect the body's response to IFNb injections. They suggest that anyone having a problem with IFNb side effects might consider trying morning injections to see if that helps.