Products
Interferon alfa-2b was commercially available as a drug for injection or infusion (Intron-A). It was approved in many countries as of 1998. In other countries, the drug remains available.
Structure and properties
Interferon alfa-2b is a recombinant, water-soluble 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-2b (ATC L03AB05) 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-2b, interferon alfa-2a has a short half-life of approximately 7 hours.
Indications
Indications for use include: Hepatitis:
- Chronic hepatitis B
- Chronic hepatitis C
Cancers:
- Hairy cell leukemia
- Chronic myeloid leukemia
- Multiple myeloma
- Follicular lymphoma
- Carcinoid
- Malignant melanoma
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is administered parenterally, for example, as a subcutaneous injection or intravenous infusion.
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.
