Products
Ropeginterferon alfa-2b was approved as a solution for injection in many countries in 2020 (Besremi).
Structure and properties
Ropeginterferon alfa-2b is a recombinant interferon alfa-2b linked to a two-arm methoxypolyethylene glycol (mPEG). It has a molecular mass of approximately 60 kDa and is produced by biotechnological methods.
Effects
Ropeginterferon alfa-2b (ATC L03AB15) inhibits proliferation of hematopoietic cells and fibroblast progenitor cells in bone marrow and antagonizes the effects of growth factors and other cytokines, among other effects.
Indications
For the treatment of adult patients with polycythaemia vera without symptomatic splenomegaly and with indication for cytoreductive therapy.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is injected subcutaneously.
Contraindications
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Ropeginterferon alfa-2b may affect the activity of CYP450 isozymes.
Adverse effects
The most common adverse effects include:
- Leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia, neutropenia.
- Joint pain, muscle pain, pain in the extremities.
- Fatigue
- Increased gamma-glutamyltransferase, increased alanine aminotransferase, increased aspartate aminotransferase.
- Flu-like illness, fever, headache, chills.
- Itching, hair loss
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Reactions at the injection site
