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NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASES FACT SHEET The neurodegenerative disease franchise is led by the flagship product, Rebif® (interferon beta-1a) for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). Rebif (interferon beta-1a) Rebif is one of the leading treatments for MS in the United States (US). It is the only self-injected disease-modifying drug (DMD) proven effective in reducing MRI lesion area and activity*, relapses and slowing the progression of disability in relapsing MS. Rebif is supported by strong clinical data, including a head-to-head trial (EVidence for Interferon Dose Response: European-North American Comparative Efficacy) and one of the largest placebo controlled clinical evaluations of interferon beta-1a in relapsing MS to date (PRISMS – Prevention of Relapses and disability by Interferon beta-1a Subcutaneously in Multiple Sclerosis).1,2 Rebif is also the only MS therapy in the US to gain exception from Orphan Drug exclusivity based on superior efficacy. Rebif 44 mcg was shown to be superior to Avonex® in terms of relapse reduction after 24 weeks in the EVIDENCE study.1 Compared with Avonex, side effects were generally similar despite the higher, more frequent dosing of Rebif. Differences included people taking Avonex had more flu-like symptoms than those taking Rebif. People taking Rebif had a greater number of injection-site reactions, elevated liver enzymes, and decreased white blood cell counts. REBIF (INTERFERON BETA-1A) INDICATION Rebif is used to treat relapsing forms of MS to decrease the frequency of relapses and delay the occurrence of some of the physical disability that is common in people with MS. Rebif is not approved for treatment of chronic progressive MS. Rebif is available in 22 mcg and 44 mcg prefilled, preassembled syringes and a titration pack by prescription only. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION Before beginning treatment, patients should discuss with their doctor the potential benefits and risks associated with Rebif. Let your doctor know if you have a history of depression, seizures, liver disease, thyroid problems, or blood cell count or bleeding problems, or if you have had previous allergic reactions to medications. Tell your doctor about all medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Rebif and other medicines may affect each other causing serious side effects. Talk to your doctor before you take any new medicines. Rebif is not recommended for women who are or plan to become pregnant. CONTACT Erin Beals 781-681-2850 [email protected] EMD Serono, Inc. is a subsidiary of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. www.emdserono.com www.facebook.com/myemdserono Potential serious side effects of Rebif include depression and risk of suicide, liver problems, risk to pregnancy, injection-site problems and severe allergic reactions. Allergic reactions are rare and may be associated with difficulty in breathing and loss of consciousness, which require immediate medical attention. The most common side effects with Rebif are injection-site reactions, flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, muscle aches, tiredness), depression, Prescribers and patients should familiarize themselves with product and risk information before using. For more information on EMD Serono’s products, patient support services, and full prescribing information, visit emdserono.com. LAST UPDATED MARCH 2012 | PAGE 1 120221-141006 EMD Serono is committed to developing new treatment options and devices, as well as enhanced patient support services for people living with neurodegenerative diseases. FACT SHEET NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASES abdominal pain, increased liver enzymes, and blood cell count decreases. Let your doctor know if you have any of these symptoms or feel sad, tired, hot or cold, or experience hives, rashes, bruising, yellowing of the skin, or a change in body weight (gain or loss). This information is not intended to replace discussions with your doctor. For additional information about Rebif® (interferon beta-1a), see the Prescribing Information and Medication Guide. You can also visit www.mslifelines.com or call toll-free 1-877-44-REBIF (1-877-447-3243). Rebif is available by prescription only. * 1 2 3 MS LifeLines® MS LifeLines is an educational and support service that includes a call center that is available to the multiple sclerosis (MS) community, including people living with MS, their families and care partners. This support service is sponsored by EMD Serono, Inc. and Pfizer Inc. The MS LifeLines service provides one-on-one support and information about MS and available therapies, including Rebif® (interferon beta-1a). Online resources from MS LifeLines include educational resources; tips and stories from others living with MS; access to local programs; and ongoing updates on MS. MS LifeLines is staffed by MS-certified nurses as well as reimbursement specialists and patient support specialists. In 2011, the MS LifeLines’ Call Center was recognized by J.D. Power and Associates for providing “An Outstanding Customer Service Experience”.3 Since 2002, MS LifeLines has handled 1 million in-bound calls from the MS community. People living with MS can learn more about the condition from MS Ambassadors through the Peer Connection Program, sponsored by EMD Serono and Pfizer. Ambassadors serve as an example and a resource in the MS community by providing inspiration and empowerment about living well with MS. Nurse specialists are another valuable component of MS LifeLines, providing educational support to individuals living with MS who are new to therapy. Reimbursement specialists are also an integral part of MS LifeLines. These specialists work with individuals to help them understand their health insurance. For more information on Rebif® (interferon beta-1a) or MS Lifelines, please visit www.mslifelines.com or www.emdserono.com. The exact correlation between MRI findings and the current or future clinical status of patients, including disability progression, is unknown. Panitch H, EVIDENCE Study Group. Randomized, comparatives study of interferon beta-1a treatment regimens in MS, Neurology 2002;59:1496-1506. Ebers G, PRISMS Study Group. Randomized double blind placebo-controlled study of interferon beta-1a in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. The Lancet. 1998; 352:1498-1504. For J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Call Center Certification ProgramSM information, visit jdpower.com LAST UPDATED MARCH 2012 | PAGE 2