Interferon Alpha
Interferons are naturally occuring protiens or glycoprotiens produced in human or animal cell type including lymphocytes and fibroblasts, in response to various stimuli including exposure to viruses. Interferons may also be produced through DNA recombinant technology. Interferons have action against viruses, they are active against malignant neoplasm and have an immunomodulating effects. Naturally occuring a inteferons are a family of at least 23 predominantly non-glyciosidic proteins.
Primary Characteristics
It is of Natural origin and belongs to Non-Glycosylated Protein.
It belongs to Interferone alpha agonist pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Biological Response Modulator pharmacological group. It is also classified under Miscellaneous Antineoplastic Agents .
Molecular Weight: 19500 · Non-proprietary name: Interferon Alpha.
Pharmacokinetics
Elimination: it is metabolised via Renal Tubules, plasma half-life is 2-7 hr.
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Indications
Interferon Alpha is primarily indicated in conditions like Bladder carcinoma, Chronic hepatitis B infection, Chronic hepatitis C, Condyloma acuminata, Cutaneous t cell lymphoma, Hairy cell leukaemia, Kaposis sarcoma, Metastatic renal carcinoma, Multiple myeloma, Myelogenous leukaemia, Non-hodgkin's lymphoma, Non-hodgkin's lymphoma.
Contraindications
Interferon Alpha is contraindicated in conditions like Anaemia, Depression, Diabetes mellitus, Hypertension, Hyperthyroidism, Thrombocytopenia, Retinopathy, Leukopenia, Seizures, Coronary artery disease, Autoimmune hepatitis.
Dosage
Interferon Alpha's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 3 millionIU | 3 millionIU | — | SC/IM | Maintenance,3 times weekly For 4 to 6 months. |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 2 millionunits/sq.meter | 2 millionunits/sq.meter | Every 24h | Subcutaneous | - |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 2 millionunits/sq.meter | 2 millionunits/sq.meter | Every 24h | Subcutaneous | - |
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 in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Sinus tachycardia , Vertigo , Cardiac arrhythmias, Cardiac arrhythmias , Anorexia , Seizures , Retinopathy , Numbness , Palpitation , Paresthesia, Dizziness , Exacerbation of asthma , Altered BP, Colitis.
Interferon Alpha produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Congestive heart failure, Pulmonary edema , Coma, Myocardial infarction, Cardiopulmonary arrest, Cerebrovascular accidents, Bone marrow. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Interferon Alpha are Coma, Lethargy, Prostration .
Interferon Alpha is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Alopecia, Anxiety, Arthralgia, Chills, Confusion, Depression, Diarrhea, Dyspnea, Epistaxis, Fever, Hallucination , Headache, Malaise, Myalgia, Paresthesias, Rashes , Skin dryness, Skin rashes, Sweating , Vomiting , Weight loss.
Warnings / Precautions
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.8.1 — Immunomodulators