Autoinjector Version of MS Drug Approved

Avonex pen helps reduce pain, anxiety

February 28, 2012 RSS Feed Print

TUESDAY, Feb. 28 (HealthDay News) -- A pen-delivery version of the multiple sclerosis drug Avonex has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, drug manufacturer Biogen Idec said Tuesday.

The self-administering Avonex autoinjector pen is designed to lessen pain and anxiety associated with MS, the Associated Press reported.

The drug was first approved in 1996. On Tuesday, the FDA also approved new dosing guidelines to help cut down on flu-like symptoms, a common adverse reaction to the drug, the AP said.

Biogen Idec is based in Weston, Mass.

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