INTERFERON GAMMA

 

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Actimmune

GENERIC NAME(S): INTERFERON GAMMA-1B,RECOMB.

 

Description: Interferon gamma has antiviral and immunomodulating effects that increases macrophage cytotoxicity.

This medication reduces the frequency and severity of serious infections due to chronic granulomatous disease. It is often used along with antibiotics to help prevent these serious infections. Interferon gamma also slows the worsening of malignant osteopetrosis. It is thought to work by affecting cell function/growth and the body’s natural defenses (immune system) in many ways. Adding more interferon may help your body fight off serious infections.

How to use interferon gamma-1b subcutaneous

Read the Patient Information Leaflet available from your pharmacist before you start using this medication and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

This medication is given by injection under the skin, usually 3 times weekly (e.g., Monday, Wednesday, and Friday) or as directed by your doctor. This medication is best used in the evening before bedtime to reduce side effects.

If you are giving this medication to yourself at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. Do not shake the solution. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.

It is important to change the location of the injection site with each dose to avoid problem areas under the skin. Therefore, choose a different injection site with each dose. The thighs and upper arms are recommended sites for the injection. Do not inject into skin that is irritated, sore, or infected.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Do not change the dose or how often you use this medication without your doctor’s approval. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each evening that you have a scheduled dose.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly if any of these effects persist or worsen:

  • Diarrhea
  • upset stomach
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • Injection site reactions (pain/swelling/redness)

Flu-like symptoms usually last about 1 day after the injection and improve or go away after a few months of continued use.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:

  • Lightheadedness
  • Fainting
  • mental/mood changes (e.g., confusion, depression)
  • shaking (tremors)
  • trouble walking
  • slow/fast/irregular heartbeat
  • shortness of breath
  • swelling of the ankles/feet
  • increasing tiredness
  • joint pain
  • butterfly-shaped rash on the face
  • easy bleeding/bruising
  • persistent nausea/vomiting
  • seizures
  • signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat)
  • stomach/abdominal pain
  • black/tarry stools
  • dark urine
  • change in the amount of urine
  • yellowing eyes/skin

Get medical help right away if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur:

  • chest/jaw/left arm pain
  • weakness on one side of the body
  • slurred speech
  • sudden vision changes
  • pain/redness/swelling of the arms/legs
  • calf pain/swelling that is warm to the touch
  • coughing up blood

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

  • Allergic reaction to this medication
  • Patients with medical history of:
    • heart disease (e.g., angina, irregular heartbeat, congestive heart failure)
    • liver disease
    • seizure disorder
    • blood cell disorders (e.g., anemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia)
  • Children may be at greater risk for effects on the liver, especially those younger than 1 year
  • This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy
  • Consult your doctor before breast-feeding

Consult your doctor regarding the precautions mentioned above.

 

Interactions

Some products that may interact with this drug include:

  • drugs that may affect your immune system (e.g., cancer chemotherapy, prednisone, cyclosporine)
  • hydroxyurea
  • theophyllines (e.g., aminophylline, theophylline)

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others.

Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., complete blood count, kidney and liver function tests) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.

Missed Dose

For the best possible benefit, it is important to receive each scheduled dose of this medication as directed. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately to establish a new dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store in the refrigerator between 36-46 degrees F (2-8 degrees C). Do not freeze. This medication should not be left at room temperature for more than 12 hours before use. If this occurs, do not use the medication and do not put it back into the refrigerator. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

 

Brands


There are no brands containing this molecule.

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