About ropeginterferon alfa b
Long-acting interferon alfa
Used for
- Treats polycythemia vera, a chronic blood cancer that causes excess red blood cells.
Usual adult dose
Usually starts at 100 micrograms under the skin every two weeks, then increases gradually to control blood counts. Dose depends on other treatment and response.
Common side effects
- Flu-like symptoms, fatigue, muscle or joint pain
- Low blood cell counts
- Raised liver enzymes
- Depression, anxiety, or other mood changes
Important warnings
- Can cause severe mental health problems, including suicidal thoughts.
- May cause serious liver, heart, or autoimmune problems.
- Can lower blood counts; regular blood tests are needed.
- Avoid in severe depression, serious heart disease, or severe liver impairment.
Pregnancy
May harm an unborn baby. Pregnancy should be avoided during treatment and for eight weeks after the last dose.
Breastfeeding
It is not known whether ropeginterferon passes into breast milk; treatment and breastfeeding require clinical review.
Interactions
- Theophylline and other CYP1A2 medicines may have altered effects.
- Medicines affecting bone marrow or immune function may increase risks.
- Interferon can affect medicines metabolised by liver enzymes.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.