Side effects
The side effects of interferon therapy are similar within the three groups. For example, flu-like symptoms with fever, chills, fatigue and aching limbs can occur. All of these respond well to paracetamol.
In addition, interferons also have an antiproliferative (growth-inhibiting) effect on the various cell rows of the body through their desired antiproliferative effect and thus possibly cause a drop in blood platelets (thrombocytopenia) and white blood cells (leukocytopenia). A deterioration in liver function is also observed under interferon therapy, so that the liver enzymes should be checked regularly; a significant increase may be an indication of liver damage. In rare cases, autoimmune disorders such as thyroiditis or hepatitis can occur. The central nervous system can also suffer side effects, for example in the form of depression, disturbances in concentration and memory and seizures.
Contraindication
Interferon therapy should be avoided in cases of severe liver dysfunction – for example, in the context of liver cirrhosis – in severe heart, circulation, lung and kidney diseases in some autoimmune diseases, and in cases of low platelet or white blood cell counts. In the case of pre-existing mental illnesses and epilepsy, interferon therapy should be weighed up very carefully because of the benefit-risk ratio. The same applies to therapy during pregnancy and while breastfeeding due to the lack of data available to date.
Dosage
Due to the large number of interferon preparations, an interferon alpha preparation (Roferon ®) and an interferon beta preparation (Avonex ®) should be mentioned here as examples. A Roferon ® pre-filled syringe with 3 million units (I. E.) costs – on a private prescription – about 40 Euros. If a health insurance prescription is available, the share to be paid by the patient is reduced to 10 Euros.
For Avonex ® in the form of a pre-filled syringe with 30 micrograms of active ingredient, costs of around 440 euros are incurred. If a prescription is available, the portion to be paid by the patient is also reduced to 10 euros.
