What are side effects of interferon?
These side effects can include:
- swelling or other reactions at the injection site.
- flu-like symptoms such as headache, tiredness, and weakness.
- chills.
- fever.
- trouble sleeping.
- nausea.
- vomiting.
- diarrhea.
What are the three effects that interferons have on the immune system?
Interferons also have immunoregulatory functions—they inhibit B-lymphocyte (B-cell) activation, enhance T-lymphocyte (T-cell) activity, and increase the cellular-destruction capability of natural killer cells. Three forms of interferon—alpha (α), beta (β), and gamma (γ)—have been recognized.
Is interferon still used today?
The combination of interferon and ribavirin is now no longer used as safer, shorter highly effective and more tolerable tablet only treatments are now available. We include this information for historical reference only. If you are offered pegylated interferon and ribavirin, please call our helpline on 020 7089 6221.
What is the drug interferon used for?
Interferon alfa-2b injection is used to treat hepatitis B and C, lymphoma (lymph node cancer), malignant melanoma (skin cancer), genital warts, hairy cell leukemia (blood cell cancer), and Kaposi sarcoma (AIDS-related tumor). Interferons are substances produced by cells in the body to help fight infections and tumors.
How long do side effects of interferon last?
Occurs within 1-2 hours of treatment, may last up to 24 hours (over time the intensity of these symptoms decreases depending on the dose, how it is given, and the schedule of administration). Fatigue , drowsiness. Low blood counts . Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease.
Does interferon weaken your immune system?
There are at least two types of interferon. Along with their antiviral properties, they have recently been shown to exert a suppressive effect on the humoral and cellular immune response; they affect both B and T lymphocytes.
Can interferon be used to treat Covid 19?
The Panel recommends against the use of interferons for the treatment of nonhospitalized patients with mild or moderate COVID-19, except in a clinical trial (AIIa).
Does interferon cause heart problems?
Interferon-α (IFN-α)-induced thyroid dysfunction (TD) has been well documented, with an incidence ranging from 10% to 27.7%. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Cardiovascular complications caused by interferon consists mainly of arrhythmia, myocarditis, reversible hypertension, ischemic heart disease, pericarditis and pericardial effusion.
Can interferon cause heart problems?
2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Cardiovascular complications caused by interferon consists mainly of arrhythmia, myocarditis, reversible hypertension, ischemic heart disease, pericarditis and pericardial effusion.