Medications and Drugs

GENERIC NAME: INTERFERON ALFA(CON) - INJECTION (in-ter-FEER-on AL-fuh)

BRAND NAME(S): Alferon N, Infergen, Intron A, Roferon-A

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

WARNING: This medication can cause or worsen some serious medical conditions including psychiatric conditions (e.g., depression), immune system problems (autoimmune conditions such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis), circulation problems (e.g., cardiovascular disease/blood clots), or infections (bone marrow suppression). If your medical history includes these conditions, inform your doctor promptly. Also, tell your doctor immediately if any serious symptoms or side effects occur (see Side Effects section). These conditions occur infrequently, but some can be fatal.

USES: This medication is used in the treatment of leukemia, certain types of cancer and viral infections.

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection. Do not shake the medication container. Be sure to understand and follow the dosing schedule to receive maximum benefit from this medication. Different conditions require different dosing schedules. Drink plenty of fluids while using this medication. This medication may come with a Patient Information Leaflet. Read it carefully. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions that you may have about this medicine. Properly store and discard used needles and syringes.

SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, muscle/joint aches, diarrhea or stomach pain. These symptoms may subside as your body adjusts to the medication. Acetaminophen may help relieve the fever and headache. If these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor promptly. Unlikely but report promptly: drowsiness, dizziness, sleep disturbances, one-sided weakness (arm/leg), vision changes, poor coordination, irregular heartbeat, intolerance to heat or cold. Very unlikely but report promptly: black stools, persistent sore throat, chest tightness, unusual bleeding/bruising, tingling hands or feet, yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, seizures, change in amount of urine, unusual increase in thirst, severe stomach/abdominal pain. If you notice any of the following unlikely but serious side effects, stop your treatment with interferon and consult your doctor immediately: unusual or severe mental/mood changes (e.g., suicidal thoughts or severe depression), bloody diarrhea. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.