About peg interferon alfa a
Pegylated interferon alfa
Used for
- Chronic hepatitis B
- Chronic hepatitis C, usually with other antiviral medicines
Usual adult dose
Usually 180 micrograms injected under the skin once weekly; treatment length depends on the condition and regimen.
Usual dose in children
For selected children aged 5 years or older with hepatitis C, dosing is weight-based, usually once weekly, with ribavirin.
Common side effects
- Flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills, and muscle aches
- Tiredness and headache
- Low blood cell counts
- Mood changes, including depression
Important warnings
- May cause or worsen serious psychiatric problems, including suicidal thoughts.
- Can reduce blood cell counts and increase infection or bleeding risk.
- May worsen autoimmune, liver, heart, or eye problems.
- Avoid during pregnancy when used with ribavirin; ribavirin can cause birth defects.
Pregnancy
Avoid with ribavirin during pregnancy; ribavirin can cause severe birth defects. Pregnancy precautions depend on the full treatment regimen.
Breastfeeding
It is not known whether peginterferon alfa-2a passes into breast milk; discuss treatment risks with a clinician.
Interactions
- Theophylline levels may rise; monitoring or dose adjustment may be needed.
- May increase exposure to methadone.
- Can interact with medicines that suppress bone marrow or affect the immune system.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.