About peginterfe ron alfa b
Pegylated interferon alfa antiviral and immunomodulator
Used for
- Previously used to treat chronic hepatitis C, usually with other antiviral medicines.
- Previously used after surgery for high-risk melanoma.
Usual adult dose
Hepatitis C: historically 1.5 micrograms/kg injected under the skin once weekly with other medicines. Melanoma dosing differs.
Usual dose in children
Historically, hepatitis C dosing was weight-based once weekly with other medicines; specialist supervision required.
Common side effects
- Flu-like symptoms, including fever, fatigue, headache, and muscle aches
- Low blood cell counts
- Depression, anxiety, or other mood changes
- Nausea, appetite loss, or injection-site reactions
Important warnings
- Can cause severe depression, suicidal thoughts, or other serious mental health effects.
- May cause serious liver, heart, lung, eye, or autoimmune problems.
- Can lower blood cell counts and increase infection or bleeding risk.
- Hepatitis C use is generally obsolete; newer antiviral treatments are preferred.
Pregnancy
Avoid during pregnancy when used with ribavirin; ribavirin can cause severe birth defects. Combination treatment requires strict pregnancy prevention.
Breastfeeding
It is not known whether peginterferon alfa-2b passes into breast milk; discuss risks with a clinician.
Interactions
- Ribavirin increases pregnancy-related risks and requires strict precautions.
- May increase theophylline levels.
- May increase methadone levels.
- Other medicines affecting bone marrow or immune function may increase risks.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.