Interferon alpha
Trade Names:
Actimmune, Alferon N, Avonex, Intron A, Roferon A, IFN-a, Interferon-a 2b, Interferon-a 2a, a-interferon
Type of Drug:
Interferon alpha is a protein cytokine that belongs to a general class of synthetic substances called biological response modifiers. It is used to treat several cancers including hairy cell leukemia and Kaposi's sarcoma. Other forms of interferon, such as Interferon beta, are investigational.
How Drug Works:
Interferon alpha is similar to a substance made by the body's immune system. This drug fights viruses and cancer cells and stimulates the body's immune system to work better.
How Drug Is Given:
Interferon alpha is given by an injection under the skin, in a vein, or in a muscle. You or a family member can be taught how to give the medicine under the skin. The medicine should be kept in its original container in the refrigerator. The dose and the number of doses depend on your weight and the cancer being treated. Keep the syringes, needles, and supplies in a safe place, out of the reach of children and pets. Keep the used syringes and needles in a special sharps container. Ask your nurse or doctor about this, and when you should bring the filled container back to the office.
How Should I Take This Drug?
Take this drug exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor or nurse to explain them to you.
Read the following information. If you do not understand it or if any of it causes you special concern, check with your doctor.

Before taking this drug, tell your doctor:

  • If you are trying to become pregnant, are pregnant, or breastfeeding. This drug may cause birth defects if either the male or female is taking it at the time of conception or during pregnancy. Men and women who are taking this drug need to use some kind of birth control. However, do not use oral contraceptives ("the pill") without checking with your doctor.

  • If you think you may want to have children in the future. Many chemotherapy drugs can cause sterility.

  • If you have any of the following medical problems: chickenpox or exposure to chickenpox, gout, heart disease, congestive heart failure, shingles, kidney stones, liver disease, or other forms of cancer.

  • If you are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter drugs, including vitamins and herbals.
Should I avoid any other medicines, foods, alcohol, and/or activities?
Your prescription and nonprescription medicines may interact with other drugs, causing harm. Certain foods or alcohol can also interact with drug products. Never begin taking a new medicine"prescription or nonprescription"without asking your doctor or nurse if it will interact with alcohol, food, or other medicines. Some drug products can cause drowsiness and affect activities such as driving.
Precautions:
While you are being treated with interferon alpha, and after you stop treatment, do not have any immunizations (vaccinations) without your doctor's okay. Try to avoid contact with people who have recently taken the oral polio vaccine. Check with your doctor about this.
Interferon alpha often causes flu-like symptoms 3 to 6 hours after it is given. The fever, chills, and tiredness will decrease as you continue to take the drug. Talk to your doctor or nurse about ways to lessen these side effects.
Tell all the doctors, dentists, and pharmacists you visit that you are taking this drug.
  • Most of the following side effects probably will not occur.
  • Your doctor or nurse will want to discuss specific care instructions with you.
  • They can help you understand these side effects and help you deal with them.
Side Effects:
More Common Side Effects
  • Flu-like syndrome with fever, chills, tiredness, headache, muscle and bone aches
  • Decreased appetite
  • Mild nausea
  • Mild diarrhea
  • Seizures
  • Irritability
  • Poor mental concentration
  • Sleepiness
Less Common Side Effects
  • Changes in taste and dry mouth
  • Dizziness
  • Abnormal results on kidney function blood tests
Rare Side Effects
  • Decreased white blood cell count with increased risk of infection
  • Decreased platelet count with increased risk of bleeding
  • Vomiting
  • Confusion
  • Depression
  • Increased heart rate
  • Chest pain
  • Change in blood pressure
  • Partial hair loss
  • Rash
  • Dry throat
  • Irritation at the place of injection
  • Congestive heart failure
  • Impotence
  • Menstrual irregularities
Side Effects / Symptoms of the Drug

Tell your doctor or nurse right away if you have fever above 100.5¡F, symptoms of infection such as a cough with sputum or burning when urinating, unusual bruising, or bleeding such as nosebleeds, bleeding gums when you brush your teeth, or black, tarry stools.
Other side effects not listed above can also occur in some patients. Tell your doctor or nurse if you develop any problems.
FDA Approval: This drug is approved for cancer treatment.