New formulation of Rebif

scoobyjude · Posted: Tue Sep 18, 2007 11:04 pm Post subject: New formulation of Rebif

Just wondering if anyone is now receiving or have been told when they will receive the new formulation. As far as I know I haven't and I'm wondering if they are waiting till they use up their supplies first.

bebe · Family Member Joined: Oct 27, 2004 Posts: 50

The new formulation of Rebif is not available in the US yet. It was recently approved by the European Commission and will available soon in other countries....the FDA is taking their own sweet time.

scoobyjude · Posted: Wed Sep 19, 2007 10:13 pm Post subject:

I figured. Thanks for the info.

liberty · Newbie Joined: Sep 17, 2007 Posts: 2

My neurologist didn't know anything about a new Rebif when I asked him - not sure if it is materially different than that which exits now. I have been taking for nearly 10 years with good success until very recently. He wanted me to consider 3 alternatives (due to an 'intense enhancement' on a recent MRI): Tysabri infusion; Cellcept orally or change to Copaxane. I choose Cellcept but have seen several highly positive comments on-line from those taking Tysabri.
Cheers!

Jason · Posted: Tue Oct 23, 2007 10:03 am Post subject: New Rebif

I have talked to the support line and the new formula is approved in Canada, but not available yet.
Probaly have to use up excisting stock piles first.

dignan · Family Elder Joined: Aug 12, 2004 Posts: 1149

Jason, thanks for the info. I think you're right about inventory, I've just recently started getting my 4 week supply in 4 separate 3 packs, I assume they have a lot of 3 packs in stock they have to get rid of. I couldn't believe the information about Canadian approval wouldn't be online somewhere. All I found was this, but it confirms what you said:

Brand Name: Rebif
Source: EMD Serono Canada Inc.
Active Ingredient: Interferon beta-1a
Comments: Change in manufacturing process and new product formulation; LIQ(8.8mcg/0.2ml, 22mcg/0.5ml, 44mcg/0.5ml)SC
Date: 2007-09-24
DIN: N/A
Therapeutic Class.: Immunomodulator

http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/dhp-mps/alt_formats/hpfb-dgpsa/txt/prodpharma/bio2007et.txt

Punchy · Posted: Fri Nov 02, 2007 7:41 am Post subject:

This may explain why the last two batches I got were defective - damn syringes didn't work properly. Must be from the bottom of the bin Wink

scoobyjude · Posted: Sun Nov 04, 2007 8:41 pm Post subject:

Punchy, the last 3 batches I've received have had faulty syringes too. I couldn't completely push the plunger down. I called the helpline and all they said was-if you can't push it anymore than don't. Great advice huh?

oreo · Posted: Tue Jan 15, 2008 8:26 pm Post subject:

Got a letter from Serono in today's mail - the new fomulation is now on its way to the pharmacies - who will still have to use up existing stocks first.
_________________
Carpe Diem

dignan · Family Elder Joined: Aug 12, 2004 Posts: 1149

Thanks for the update Oreo, I've been wondering if it would be out in early 2008.

Punchy · Posted: Wed Jan 16, 2008 2:09 pm Post subject:

I got the same letter - they say we'll recognize the formula because it's in a new coloured box.

I hope it doesn't take too long because I am still having issues with the old Rebif's faulty syringes.

Grumpster · Posted: Thu Jan 24, 2008 4:31 pm Post subject:

I take that crap too, the old one. No faulty syringes yet. I suggest filing a complaint with the MFR about the syringes because then they will have to address it in their Quality Systems. An auditor will have a field day with them if they do not.

What is the substinative change. Does it have anything to do with efficacy, or just a way for them to make more $$ ?

dignan · Family Elder Joined: Aug 12, 2004 Posts: 1149

I did my first injection with the new formulation last night. Nothing to report - I didn't get any flu-like symptoms and the shot was relatively painless.

scoobyjude · Posted: Wed Feb 06, 2008 10:25 pm Post subject:

Dignan, is that an improvement for you or just the norm?

dignan · Family Elder Joined: Aug 12, 2004 Posts: 1149

I don't ever have side effects. You know how it is with the injections, sometimes they sting, other times they don't. I've done 2 with the new formula so far and no stinging. That could just be luck though. I'll believe it's better after I've done about 10 shots with no stinging.