Pegasys
Drug name: Pegasys
Therapeutic actions: Peginterferon alfa-2a is a long acting interferon. Interferons are proteins released in the body in response to viral infections. Interferons are important for fighting viruses in the body, for regulating reproduction of cells, and for regulating the immune system.
Indications: Peginterferon alfa-2a is a specific interferon used to treat chronic hepatitis C.
Contraindications and cautions: Do not use peginterferon alfa-2a if you have
- autoimmune hepatitis;
- decompensated liver disease; or
- had an allergic reaction to an alfa interferon in the past or if you are allergic to E. coli derived products.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have
- lung disease;
- diabetes;
- colitis;
- eye problems;
- pancreatitis;
- bone marrow suppression;
- low platelet counts;
- a history of cancer;
- kidney disease;
- liver problems other than hepatitis C;
- hepatitis B or HIV infection;
- an autoimmune disorder such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), or psoriasis;
- heart disease or previous heart attack;
- a history of drug or alcohol abuse;
- a history of depression, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, or another mental illness; or
- thyroid problems.
You may not be able to use peginterferon alfa-2a, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
Peginterferon alfa-2a is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether peginterferon alfa-2a will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use this medication if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether peginterferon alfa-2a passes into breast milk. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding.
Adverse effects: The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.
Call your doctor or seek emergency medical attention if you develop symptoms of depression or are contemplating suicide; become unusually irritable, anxious (nervous), or aggressive; or experience other mood or behavior changes. In some cases, peginterferon alfa-2a has caused serious mood or behavioral problems. Problems with body organs such as the heart, lungs, and eyes have been experienced by people taking interferon alfa-2a. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop difficulty breathing, chest pain, blurred vision, or loss of vision.
Many patients using peginterferon alfa-2a have developed a drop in the number of white blood cells and platelets. If the number of these blood cells are too low, there is an increased risk of infection or bleeding. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop a fever, symptoms of an infection, or unusual bleeding or bruising.
If you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives), stop using peginterferon alfa-2a and seek emergency medical attention.
Flulike symptoms are likely to occur. They are most common at the start of therapy and may decrease with continued use. An over-the-counter fever reducer such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others), ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), or naproxen (Aleve); plenty of fluid; and using the medication at bedtime may help to alleviate these symptoms. Continue to use peginterferon alfa-2a and notify your doctor if you experience:
- fever or chills;
- headache;
- muscle aches or joint pain;
- nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite;
- diarrhea;
- dizziness or drowsiness;
- difficulty sleeping;
- dry or itchy skin;
- temporary hair loss; or
- redness, swelling, or irritation at the injection site.
The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer.
Interactions: Tell your doctor or pharmacist what medicines you are already taking, including those bought without a prescription and herbal medicines, before you start treatment with this medicine.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking theophylline (Theo-Dur, Theochron, Theolair, others). Peginterferon alfa-2a may increase theophylline levels in the body, which could become dangerous.
Additional Information: DO NOT SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS PRODUCT, as well as syringes and needles, if needed during treatment, out of the reach of children. Do not reuse needles, syringes, or other materials.
Additional Information: DO NOT SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS PRODUCT, as well as syringes and needles, if needed during treatment, out of the reach of children. Do not reuse needles, syringes, or other materials.
