INTERFERON ALFA-2b
(in-ter-feer'on)
Intron A
Classifications: immunomodulator; interferon
Prototype: Interferon alfa-2a
Pregnancy Category: C
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5 million IU, 10 million IU, 18 million IU, 25 million IU, 50 million IU vials
Alpha (leukocyte) interferon is a natural product induced virally in peripheral WBC or lymphoblastoid cells. The drug interferon
alfa-2b is obtained by recombinant DNA technology from a strain of Escherichia coli bearing an interferon alfa-2b gene from human leukocytes.
Has the same actions (antiviral, immunomodulating, antiproliferative) as interferon alfa-2a.
Hairy cell leukemia in splenectomized and nonsplenectomized patients 
18 y,
chronic hepatitis B or C.
Multiple sclerosis, condylomata acuminata, AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma.
Hypersensitivity to interferon alfa-2b or to any components of the product. Safe use during pregnancy (category C), lactation,
or children <18 y is not established.
Severe, preexisting cardiac, renal, or hepatic disease; pulmonary disease (e.g., COPD); diabetes mellitus patients prone to
ketoacidosis; coagulation disorders; severe myelosuppression; recent MI; previous dysrhythmias.
Hairy Cell Leukemia
Adult: IM/SC 2 million U/m2 3 times/wk
Kaposi's Sarcoma
Adult: IM/SC 30 million U/m2 3 times/wk
Condylomata Acuminata
Adult: IM/SC 1 million U/m2 3 times/wk
Chronic Hepatitis B or C
Adult: SC 3 million U 3 times/wk x 18–24 mo
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Note: Interferon alfa-2b should be administered under the guidance of a qualified physician.
Subcutaneous/Intramuscular
- Reconstitution: The final concentration with the amount of required diluent is determined by the condition being treated (see
manufacturer's directions). Inject diluent (bacteriostatic water for injection) into interferon alfa-2b vial; gently agitate
solution before withdrawing dose with a sterile syringe.
- Make sure reconstituted solution is clear and colorless to light yellow and free of particulate material; discard if there
are particles or solution is discolored.
- Store vials and reconstituted solutions at 2°–8° C (36°–46° F); remains stable for 1 mo.
Body as a Whole:
Flu-like syndrome (fever, chills) associated with myalgia and arthralgia, leg cramps. CNS: Depression, nervousness, anxiety, confusion, dizziness, fatigue, somnolence, insomnia, altered mental states, ataxia, tremor, paresthesias, headache. CV: Hypertension, dyspnea, hot flushes. Special Senses: Epistaxis, pharyngitis, sneezing; abnormal vision. GI: Taste alteration, anorexia, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, stomatitis, diarrhea, flatulence. Hematologic: Mild thrombocytopenia, transient granulocytopenia, anemia, neutropenia, leukemia. Skin: Mild pruritus, mild alopecia, rash, dry skin, herpetic eruptions, nonherpetic cold sores, urticaria.
Drug: May increase theophylline levels; additive myelosuppression with antineoplastics, zidovudine may increase hematologic toxicity, increase doxorubicin toxicity, increase neurotoxicity with vinblastine. Use with ribavirin increases risk of hemolytic anemia; do not use in combination with ribavarin if CrCl <50 mL/min.
Peak: 6–8 h. Metabolism: Metabolized in kidneys. Half-Life: 6–7 h.
(see INTERFERON ALFA-2A)
Assessment & Drug Effects
- Assess hydration status; patient should be well hydrated, especially during initial stage of treatment and if vomiting or
diarrhea occurs.
- Lab tests: Closely monitor CBC with differential and platelet counts.
- Monitor for ecchymoses, petechiae, and bruising.
- Assess for flu-like symptoms, which may be relieved by acetaminophen (if prescribed).
- Monitor level of GI distress and ability to consume fluids and food.
- Monitor mental status and alertness; implement safety precautions if needed.
Patient & Family Education
- Learn techniques for reconstitution and administration of drug.
- Do NOT change brands of interferon without first consulting the physician.
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Note: If flu-like symptoms develop, take acetaminophen as advised by physician and take interferon at bedtime.
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Note: Fertile, nonpregnant women need to use effective contraception.
- Use caution with hazardous activities until response to drug is known.
- Learn about adverse effects and notify physician about those that cause significant discomfort.
- Do not breast feed while taking this drug without consulting physician.
Canadian drug name; 
Prototype drug