What is PEGASYS interferon used for?

Posted on by Emilia Duggan

What is PEGASYS interferon used for?

PEGASYS® (peginterferon alfa-2a) is a prescription medication that is: used with other hepatitis C medicines to treat adults with chronic (lasting a long time) hepatitis C and certain types of liver problems.

Does PEGASYS cause weight loss?

Dry mouth, loss of appetite, weight loss, trouble sleeping, diarrhea, dry skin, or redness/swelling at the injection site may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Is PEGASYS chemotherapy?

Drug type: Pegaspargase is an anti-cancer (“antineoplastic” or “cytotoxic”) chemotherapy drug.

Is PEGASYS an antiviral?

PEGASYS® (peginterferon alfa-2a), as part of a combination regimen with other hepatitis C virus (HCV) antiviral drugs, is indicated for the treatment of adults with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) with compensated liver disease.

Is PEGASYS interferon an immunosuppressant?

Pegasys injection contains the active ingredient peginterferon alfa-2a, which is a type of medicine called an immunomodulator. It is a man-made form of a natural substance called interferon.

Can peginterferon alfa-2a cause dizziness?

Peginterferon alfa-2a used together with ribavirin may affect your child’s growth. Your doctor may need to check your child’s height and weight during and after treatment with these medicines. This medicine may cause some people to become drowsy, dizzy, or less alert than they are normally.

What are the 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.

Is Pegasys an immunotherapy?

Peginterferon alfa-2a (Pegasys®) is an Immunotherapy Regimen for Polycythemia Vera.

How long do you take Pegasys?

Pegasys, whether given alone or in combination with ribavirin tablets, is usually administered as a 180 mcg per 0.5 mL injection once a week for 24 to 72 weeks depending on the type of virus you are infected with and any previous treatment you have had.

How does interferon make you feel?

The more common long-term side effects of interferons are typically less severe. These side effects can include: swelling or other reactions at the injection site. flu-like symptoms such as headache, tiredness, and weakness.