|
INTERFERON ALPHA - INJECTION
(Interferon, Roferon A, )
Used for:
Interferon is a anticancer drug used in the treatment of tumors, leukemia, and
certain types of cancer and viral infections, such as HEPATITIS.
How to take interferon:
Interferon is given by injection usually three to five times a week, by yourself,
the patient or a health care professional. Be sure that you understand and follow
the dosing schedule in order for you to receive the maximum benefit from this
medication. Be sure that you drink plenty of liquids while your taking this
medication.
Side effects:
Interferon may cause flu-like symptoms such as headache, fever, vomiting, nausea,
muscle aches and pains, fatigue, and chills. These symptoms may go away once
your body adjusts to the Interferon. Acetaminophen may help relieve the above
symptoms. If your symptoms continue to bother you, let your Doctor know. If
you develop a skin rash, itching, trouble breathing, a tight feeling in your
chest, lightheadedness, a rapid heart beat, chest pain, or any unusual bleeding
or bruising, swelling or tingling sensations in your feet or hands, or mental
confusion (brain fog) let your Doctor know this as well.
Precautions:
Interferon is NOT recommended for use during pregnancy or if your breast-feeding.
Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Let your doctor know if you
have any pre- existing liver disease, heart or kidney disease, blood disorders
or allergies.
Interactions with other drugs:
Let your doctor know of any over-the-counter or prescription medications you
are taking.
Laboratory tests will be done on a regular basis to be sure the drug is working
correctly and to watch for possible side effects.
If you miss a dose:
It is important that you receive each dose at your scheduled time. If you miss
a dose, contact your doctor and he/she should help you to establish a new schedule.
Do NOT double" the dose to make up for what you missed!
Storage of Interferon:
Store the Interferon as directed, usually in the refrigerator. As with any medicines,
properly discard any unused or expired medications.
table Of Contents
Hepatitis Central
|
