Interferons are a group of drugs used to treat chronic hepatitis, autoimmune diseases, genital warts, or certain types of cancer, such as melanoma, leukemia, lymphoma, or multiple myeloma. Interferon is generally available in injectable form .
Interferon is a type of protein that helps regulate the work of the immune system. This drug plays an important role in fighting viral infections, activating immune cells, and inhibiting tumor cell growth.
Precautions Before Using Interferon
Interferon must be given in a hospital by a doctor or medical personnel under the supervision of a doctor. Some things to consider before using this drug are:
- Tell your doctor about any history of allergies you have. Injectable interferon should not be given to patients who are allergic to the ingredients contained in this drug.
- Tell your doctor if you have or have had any blood disorders , including anemia, neutropenia , or thrombocytopenia.
- Tell your doctor if you have diabetes, heart rhythm disturbances , hypertension, lupus , psoriasis, kidney disease , mental disorders, eye disease, thyroid disease, or lung disease .
- Tell your doctor if you have recently had organ transplant surgery or are being treated with immunosuppressant drugs .
- Tell your doctor if you plan to get vaccinated while on interferon treatment.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements or herbal products.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy.
- See a doctor immediately if you experience a drug allergic reaction or serious side effects after using injectable interferon.
Interferon Side Effects and Dangers
In general, the side effects that may occur after using interferon are:
- Diarrhea
- Nauseous
- Vomit
- Fever
- Headache
- shivers
- Muscle ache
- Malaise (tired, uncomfortable, or not feeling well)
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
Check with your doctor if these side effects don't go away or get worse. Immediately go to the doctor if a drug allergic reaction appears, which can be marked by symptoms in the form of an itchy rash, swelling of the eyelids and lips, or difficulty breathing, after using interferon.
Types, Trademarks and Dosages of Interferon Drugs
Interferon is given by injection into a muscle (intramuscular/IM) or under the skin (subcutaneously/SC). The doctor will determine the dosage, method and duration of administration, according to your condition. Interferons are divided into 3 major groups, namely alpha, beta, and gamma.
Each of these groups has a type of drug with different functions, trademarks, and dosages. The following are common doses for interferon use:
1. Interferon Alfa-2a
Trademarks: -
To find out the dosage and further information about this drug, please open the interferon alfa-2a drug page .
2. Interferon Alpha-2b
Trademarks: Kalferon, Intron-A
To find out the dosage and further information about this drug, please open the interferon alfa-2b drug page .
3. Alpha-n3 interferon
Trademark: Alferon N
To find out the dosage and further information about this drug, please open the interferon alpha-n3 drug page .
4. Interferon Beta-1a
Trademark: Rebif 22
To find out the dosage and further information about this drug, please open the interferon beta-1a drug page .
5. Interferon Beta-1b
Trademark: Betaferon
To find out the dosage and further information about this drug, please open the interferon beta-1b drug page .
6. Interferon Gamma-1b
Trademark: Actimmune
To find out the dosage and further information about this drug, please open the interferon gamma-1b drug page .
7. Alpha-2a peginterferon
Trademark: Pegasys
To find out the dosage and further information about this drug, please open the peginterferon alfa-2a drug page .
8. Alpha-2b peginterferon
Trademark: Peg Intron
To find out the dosage and further information about this drug, please open the peginterferon alfa-2b drug page .