ADAP drugs: alpha interferon

alpha-interferon (INF-alpha, Intron A, Roferon)

Drug description

Alpha interferon is approved for treatment of Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS) if you have a T4 cell count over 200. To be effective against KS, alpha interferon has to be given intramuscularly in high doses. Alpha-interferon works best if you have a T4 cell count over 400, no prior opportunistic infections, and you do not have symptoms such as fever, night sweats, and weight loss. Low dose alpha interferon is being tried in combination with AZT. Alpha interferon may be effective in eliminating or controlling chronic hepatitis B infection. Hoffman-La Roche, Inc., who makes Roferon, has a Cost Assistance Program (800.227.7448), an Indigent Patient Program (800.526.6367), and Reimbursement Assistance (800.443.6676). Schering-Plough Corp., who makes Intron, has an Interactive Reimbursement Information Service (800.521.7157).

Side effects
The side effects of alpha-interferon can include flu-like symptoms, anorexia, fatigue, low-grade fever, and weight loss. Nausea is common. Side effects get worse with higher doses.

Dosage
Alpha-interferon is given by injection under the skin. Typical long-term doses are from 5-15 million units daily. For controlling chronic hepatitis B infection, injections of 3 to 5 million units are given three times per week.

How long it may take to work
Resolution of symptoms indicates that treatment is effective.

Managing side effects
Side effects diminish over time and it’s important to hang in through the initial fatigue and flu-like symptoms and remember it will get better. Visible improvement of KS takes many weeks and improvement can continue over many months. Motrin can help with side effects. Take lots of fluids during initial treatment to reduce nausea and dehydration.

This information is specific to the use of this medication for HIV-related conditions. For additional information about this drug for other conditions, refer to: www.nursespdr.com/ and www.healthanswers.com/Library/library_fset.asp

The drug descriptions on these pages are intended for informational purposes only. The Network does not promote or endorse the use of any specific treatment for any health-related condition. The medications described here can only be dispensed by a licensed health care professional. The information may have changed since these pages were updated, though every effort is made to keep these pages current. Please contact The Network at (800) 734-7104 to make sure you have the most up-to-date information

To drug index To Access Project home page

HOME