I have been on Avonex for 8 years. For most people there are flu like side effects, slight fever, body aches, general fatigue, for about 6 months when starting. This is true for all of the Interferons. Just take an OTC medication like Aleve or Ibuprofen, Tylenol is recommended since that is what was used in the Trials, but it is probably the least effective. For bad side effects a low dose, 10 mg, of Prednisone about 6 hours before the injection is very effective. I do not have any side effects, for about 7 1/2 years now. Do my shot Friday morning, 2 Naproxen (Aleve) and just go about my day.

The needle is long, 1 1/4 inches, but it does not hurt, just imposing. There is a shorter 1 inch available, it just has to be requested, I use a 5/8 inch needle since I have no fat on my legs. The once a week shot is very easy to fit into your life. Most people do the shot on their thighs, big muscle and easy to reach. Just rotate injection sites.