Peginterferon Alfa-2a and Alfa-2b are polyethylene glycol conjugated ‘pegylated’ derivatives of interferon alfa. Pegylation increases the persistence of the interferon in the blood.

Indications: combined with ribavirin for chronic hepatitis C, as monotherapy if ribavirin is not tolerated or contraindicated.

Cautions: interferon alfa for either monotherapy or combined therapy should be used only if neutropenia and thrombocytopenia are a particular risk.

Contra-indications: consult product/specialist literature.

Side Effects: side effects are dose-related, but commonly include anorexia, nausea, influenza-like symptoms, and lethargy. Ocular side effects, depression (including suicidal behaviour), myelosuppression, cardiovascular problems, nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity have been reported. Hypertriglyceridaemia, sometimes severe, has been observed. Other side effects include hypersensitivity reactions, thyroid abnormalities, hyperglycaemia, alopecia, psoriasiform rash, confusion, coma and seizures.