Interferon

Filed under: Other Medication

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Interferon. There are three main types of interferon these are alpha, beta, and gamma. They are thought to promote resistance to several types of viral infection. Inerferon alpha is used for leukaemias, other cancers and chronic hepatitis B and C. Inerferon beta reduces the frequency and severity of relapse in multiple sclerosis. Interferon gamma is prescribed in conjunction with antibiotics for patients suffering from chronic granulomatous disease.

Detailed Information

Quick Guide

• Antiviral drug with overdose danger – MEDIUM.
• Dependency is said to be – LOW.
• Prescription only drug – YES.
• Available as generic – NO.
• Alcohol Avoidance YES
• Alcohol may increase the sedative effect of interferon.

Side Effects

You may if on this medication suffer one or more of these side effects, in the initial stages. However, you may find you do not suffer any at all, as it does not follow that being on this medication will cause unwanted side effects.

Common: Chills, Fever, Depression, Digestive Problems, Dizziness, Drowsiness, Headaches, Lethargy, Muscle Stiffness And Pain, Weight Loss.
Rare: Hair Loss.

The side effects listed here are the most common and rare problems reported by patients using this medication It does not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If common side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you suffer any of the rare or some other side effects not listed here. For total peace of mind, seek information from your doctor or chemist.

Prolonged Use

Blood cell production in the bone marrow may be reduced, there could also be an increased risk of liver damage. Repeated large doses are associated with fatique, lethargy, collapse and coma. Frequent test would be carried out to monitor for blood composition and liver function.

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

Alcohol may increase the sedative effect of interferon. There would be no problems with driving and hazardous work. (That is providing you don’t drink and drive, of course).

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

Safety in pregnancy is not established. Interferon would not usually be prescribed. It is not known if the drug passes into the breast milk. You should discuss both these issues with your doctor.

Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason. Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking. This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, herbal and complimentary / alternative medication.

Over 60’s & Children

A reduced dose may be necessary for the over sixties as there could be a likelihood of adverse effects. Interferon would not normally be prescribed for infants or children.

Overdose

Overdose would be thought of as unlikely as treatment is closely monitored.

Other Medication Reactions

The sedative effects of interferon would be increased if taken with other drugs that are known to have a sedative effect, such as analgesics, antidepressants, antipsychotics and antihistamines. Interferon may also reduce the effectiveness of vaccines. The effects of theophylline/aminophylline may be increased by interferon. A number of other drugs can increase the risk of bad adverse effects on the blood, heart, or the nervous system. However, this would be taken account of when prescribing interferon with other drugs.

Missed A Dose

This area would not be applicable as treatment can only be given in hospital and then under close medical supervision.

Reducing or Stopping Medication

You would need to discuss this with your doctor.

Effect Of Medication (from one dose)

It becomes active in the body within 1 hour. However, the effects may not be noted for 1 – 2 months. Effects can last for about 12 hours.

Storage and Safety

• Keep medicine in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach of children.
• Do not store medication above a temperature of 25°C.
• Never take more than the original dosage prescribed by your doctor.
• Never take medication that has past the expiry date shown on the box or container.
• Do not discard old or unwanted medication / drugs into your trash, sink or toilet.
• Return all un-used or old medicines / drugs to your pharmacist.

If this medication has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or they feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.