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Interferon Alpha- Two B

Latest prescription information about Interferon Alpha- Two B. Learn how to pronounce the drug’s name, its indications, dosage, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, its storage instructions and warnings if any when taken during pregnancy. Also listed are the International and Indian trade name(s) of the drug and its price list.
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Generic Name : Interferon Alpha- Two B
Pronunciation : in-tuh-fer-on-al-fa-2-bee
Therapeutic Classification : anti- hepatitis agents
Trade Name(s): 
India- Viraferon, Shanferon, Realfa -2B.
International- Pegintron, Intron® A
Why it is prescribed (Indications) : 
This medication is an antiviral drug, prescribed for chronic hepatitis B and C either alone or with other medications. It is also used to cure certain types of cancer.

When it is not to be taken (Contraindications): 


Contraindicated in patients with severe liver impairment due to autoimmune disorder, and hypersensitivity.

Pregnancy Category :

A B C D X
Category C : Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.


When it is to be taken : 
Dose is based on patient’s condition.
Hepatitis B: SC/IM- The recommended dose is 30 to 35 million initial units per week
Hepatitis C- SC/IM- The recommended dose is 3 million initial units three times a week.
How it should be taken : 
It comes as a solution for injection to be administered by a healthcare provider.
Special Instruction : 
* Caution should be exercised in patients with history of kidney or liver problems, suicidal thoughts, trouble in sleeping, alcoholism, high blood pressure, heart attack, bleeding, thyroid, lung problems; any allergy, who are taking other medications, elderly, children, during pregnancy and breast-feeding.
* It may cause dizziness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.
* Avoid contact with people who have infections.
* It may reduce platelet counts; avoid injury or bruising.
* It may raise blood sugar level; monitor sugar level regularly while taking this medication.
* Patient may develop with increased risk of suicidal thoughts; if it is so consult with your doctor.
Side Effects : 
Application Site - Injection site inflammation/reaction.
Metabolic - Dry mouth, increased sweating, flushing and decrease in thyroid hormone.
Body as a Whole - Fatigue/weakness, headache, rigors, fever, weight loss, infections, abdomen pain, chest pain and uneasiness.
Central Nervous System - Dizziness, depression, anxiety, emotional lability, sleeplessness, poor concentration, agitation and nervousness.
Gastrointestinal - Nausea, loss of appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, indigestion and constipation.
Blood - Decrease in white blood cells, platelets and anemia.
Liver - Liver enlargement.
Musculoskeletal - Muscle pain and joint pain.
Genitourinary - Menstrual disorder.
Respiratory - Difficulty in breathing, cough, runny nose and inflammation of sinus.
Skin - Hair loss, itching, rash and dry skin.
Eye and ENT - Taste perversion, blurred vision and eye inflammation.
Other Precautions : 
* Avoid excess dosage.
Storage Conditions : 
Store it in refrigerator (2°-8°C), and in an airtight container.

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