Interferon Alpha

Overview

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.

Categories

Primary Characterstics

Indications

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Pharmacokinetics

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Contraindications

Interferon Alpha is contraindicated in conditions like Anaemia, Depression, Diabetes mellitus, Hypertension, Hyperthyroidism, Thrombocytopenia, Retinopathy, Leukopenia, Seizures, Coronary artery disease, Autoimmune hepatitis.

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Drug Interactions

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Side Effects

The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Interferon Alpha, which give rise to further complications 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. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Interferon Alpha therapy.

The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Interferon Alpha include Coma, Lethargy, Prostration.

The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Interferon Alpha are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Headache, Vomiting, Alopecia, Diarrhea, Fever, Myalgia, Anxiety, Dyspnea, Skin rashes, Sweating, Chills, Rashes, Confusion, Hallucination, Malaise, Depression, Arthralgia, Weight loss, Paresthesias, Skin dryness, Epistaxis, Confusion, Alopecia, Skin rashes.

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Dosage

Interferon Alpha's dosage details are as follows:
Dose Single Dose Frequency Route Instructions

Adult Dosage

3 millionIU3 (3)As recommended.SC/IMMaintenance,3 times weekly For 4 to 6 months.

Paedriatic Dosage (20kg)

1 to 3 millionunits/sq.meter2 (2)24 hourlySubcutaneous-

Neonatal Dosage (3kg)

1 to 3 millionunits/sq.meter2 (2)24 hourlySubcutaneous-

High Risk Groups

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Warning / Precautions

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Storage Conditions

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Interference in Pathology

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Brands / Trade Names of Interferon Alpha

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Manufacturers of Interferon Alpha in Pakistan

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