Interferon Alpha 2b
Interferons are potent cytokines that possess antiviral, immunomodulating and antiproliferative actions. The interferones bind to specific cell-surface receptors that initiate a series of intracellular events, induction of certain enzymes, inhibition of cell-proliferation, and enhancement of immune activities. The term "interferon alfa" actually refers to at least three compounds that only differ slightly in their amino acid sequence: interferon alfa-2a, interferon alfa-2b , and interferon alfa-n3. Interferon alfa-2b, a highly purified protein that is obtained from Escherichia coli by genetic engineering. Interferon Alpha 2b is indicated in the treatment of a variety of tumours including hairy cell leukaemia, malignant melanoma, follicular lymphomaand AIDS related Kaposi`s sarcoma. Interferon alfa-2b was approved by the FDA in 1986.
Primary Characteristics
It is of Semi Synthetic origin.
Non-proprietary name: Interferon Alpha 2b.
Pharmacokinetics
Elimination: it is metabolised via Liver, plasma half-life is 4-12 hrs.
Advertisement
Indications
Interferon Alpha 2b is primarily indicated in conditions like Bladder carcinoma, Hairy cell leukaemia, Hepatitis, Hepatitis C, Herpes zoster, Human papillomavirus infections, Kaposis sarcoma, Malignant melanoma, Multiple myeloma, Non-hodgkin's lymphoma, Non-hodgkin's lymphoma, Non-hodgkin's lymphoma, Non-hodgkin's lymphoma, Viral infection.
Contraindications
Interferon Alpha 2b is contraindicated in conditions like Epilepsy, Heart disease, Hypersensitivity to any component of product.
Dosage
Interferon Alpha 2b's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 1.5 mcg/m2 | 1.5 mcg/m2 | — | S/C | |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 60 mcg/m2 | 60 mcg/m2 | — | S/C | weekly |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Interferon Alpha 2b in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Insomnia , Seizures , Depression , Hyperthyroidism .
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Interferon Alpha 2b are Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Anorexia , CNS depression.
Interferon Alpha 2b is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Alopecia, Arthralgia, Diarrhea, Fever, Headache, Myalgia, Nausea, Shivering .
Warnings / Precautions
Available Brands
Drug Classification
- 1.8.1 — Immunomodulators