Products
Interferon alfa-2a is commercially available as an injectable (Roferon-A). It has been approved in many countries since 1997.
Structure and properties
Interferon alfa-2a is a recombinant protein obtained from a -strain by biotechnological methods. It consists of 165 amino acids and has a molecular mass of approximately 19 kDa.
Effects
Interferon alfa-2a (ATC L03AB04) has antiviral, antitumor, immunomodulatory, and antiproliferative properties. The effects are due to binding to interferon-alfa receptors on the cell surface, leading to gene transcription. Unlike peginterferon alfa-2a, interferon alfa-2a has a short half-life of approximately 5 hours.
Indications
- Cancer, e.g., leukemia, Kaposi’s sarcoma, melanoma, renal cell carcinoma.
- Chronic hepatitis B
- Chronic hepatitis C
Dosage
According to the professional information. The drug is usually injected subcutaneously once a day to three times a week.
Contraindications
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include flu-like symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, fever, muscle aches, and headache.
