Peginterferon Alfa-2b
Antiviral, Systemic · Single-subtype recombinant, pegylated interferon (rbe)
Indications
Chronic hepatitis C in patients positive for HCV antibodies with elevated ALT levels and intolerance or contraindication to ribavirin.
Dosage
Adults: 0.5 mcg or 1 mcg/kg by SC inj once weekly for 6 mth. Continue for additional 6 mth in patients showing loss of HCV-RNA at 6 mth. Children: Not recommended.
Administration
Administer by SC. Reconstitute with only 0.7 mL of the 1.25 mL of SWFI. The diluent is single use only. The reconstituted solution should be clear and colourless. Compatibility: Sterile water for injection. Stability: Refrigerate at 2°C-8°C. Do not freeze or shake. Protect from light. Intact vial may be stored at room temperature for up to 14 days. Prefilled syringe may be stored at room temperature for up to 6 days.
Adverse Effects
Fatigue, pyrexia, headache, rigour, anorexia, insomnia, depression, alopecia, flu-like symptoms, prolongation of coagulation markers, pulmonary infiltrates or severe CNS effects occur, infections, blood dyscrasias, thyroid dysfunction, hypocalcaemia, dehydration, altered appetite, visual disturbances, dry eye, lacrimal disorders, eye pain, hearing impairment, tinnitus, vertigo, palpitations, tachycardia, BP changes, flushing, dyspnoea, cough, respiratory tract congestion, pharyngolaryngeal pain, GI upset, dry mouth, dental disorders, dysphonia, gingival bleeding, hyperbilirubinaemia, hepatomegaly, myalgia, arthralgia, pain, arthritis, muscle spasms, micturition frequency, polyuria, urine abnormality, sexual dysfunction, menstrual disorders, breast pain, inj site reactions, skin reactions, wt loss.
Risk Factor (Pregnancy/Lactation)
Pregnancy: Contraindicated in pregnancy. Lactation: Contraindicated or not recommended. Contraindications: Autoimmune disease, severe hepatic dysfunction CNS dysfunction, severe cardiac disease or psychiatric disorder, uncontrolled thyroid disease, other debilitating medical conditions. Epilepsy. Precautions: Moderate to severe renal impairment; Coagulation disorders, psoriasis, sarcoidosis, organ transplant recipients, myelosuppression, monitor patients with congestive heart failure, MI, arrhythmias, ocular effects, pulmonary effects, HIV/HCV co-infection. Maintain adequate hydration. Monitor thyroid function and lipid levels. Monitor for psychiatric symptoms. Risk of HBV reactivation and growth inhibition in children.
Interactions
Substrates of CYP2D6 (flecainide) and CYP2CB/9 (warfarin/phenytoin) methadone, other nucleoside analogues, HAART, theophylline, immunosuppressants.
Advice to Patient
Contact prescriber if there is irritability, depression, aggressive behaviour, suicidal thoughts, low blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythm, fast heartbeat, chest pain, difficulty in breathing, heart muscle problems, heart attack, symptoms of stroke (such as weakness, loss of coordination, numbness), fever, chills, bloody diarrhoea, burning or pain with urination, urge to urinate often, discoloured mucus on coughing.
Pharmacokinetics
Half-life elimination: 40 hrs. Time to peak, serum: 15-44 hrs. Excretion: Urine (30%).
Brands with this active ingredient
Compiled by Healify Pharmacy from published drug references. How we compile it →
Always consult a pharmacist or doctor.