interferon alfa-n3 (injectable) Health Article

Generic name(s):

interferon alfa-n3 (injectable)

Brand name(s):

interferon alfa-n3, Alferon N

What is the most important information I should know about interferon alfa-n3?

Contraception is recommended during treatment with interferon alfa-n3 to prevent pregnancy.

Interferon alfa-n3 is made from human blood and may contain infectious agents (e.g., viruses) that can cause disease. Although interferon alfa-n3 is screened, tested, and treated to reduce the possibility that it carries an infectious agent, it can still potentially transmit disease. Discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits of using interferon alfa-n3.

What is interferon alfa-n3?

Interferon alfa-n3 is a protein. Interferons are released in the body in response to viral infections. Interferons are important for fighting viruses in the body, for regulating production of cells, and for regulating the immune system.

Interferon alfa-n3 is a specific interferon used to treat venereal or genital warts caused by human papilloma virus (HPV).

Interferon alfa-n3 may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using interferon alfa-n3?

Do not use interferon alfa -n3 without first talking to your doctor if you have had an allergic reaction to an alfa interferon in the past or if you are allergic to mouse, egg, or neomycin products.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have

• heart disease or history of a heart attack;

• lung or respiratory disease such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD);

• a suppressed immune system or an autoimmune disorder such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), or psoriasis;

• diabetes;

• a bleeding or blood clotting disorder; or

• a seizure disorder.

You may not be able to use interferon alfa-n3, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Interferon alfa-n3 is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether interferon alfa-n3 will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use this medication if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Contraception is recommended during treatment with interferon alfa-n3 to prevent pregnancy. It is not known whether interferon alfa-n3 passes into breast milk. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding.

How should I use interferon alfa-n3?

Use interferon alfa-n3 exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to explain them to you.

Interferon alfa-n3 is administered by a healthcare professional as an intralesional (into the lesion) injection.

Flulike symptoms are likely to occur. They are most common at the start of therapy and may decrease with continued use. Over-the-counter fever reducers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others), ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, others), and naproxen (Aleve) and drinking plenty of fluid may help to alleviate these symptoms.

Your doctor may want you to have blood tests performed before and periodically during treatment with interferon alfa-n3.

Your healthcare provider will store interferon alfa-n3 as directed by the manufacturer. If you are storing interferon alfa-n3 at home, store the medication in the refrigerator between 36 and 46 degrees Fahrenheit (2 and 8 degrees Celsius). Do not allow interferon alfa-n3 to freeze.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Contact your doctor if a dose of interferon alfa-n3 is missed.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

Symptoms of an interferon alfa-n3 overdose are not known.

What should I avoid while using interferon alfa-n3?

Contraception is recommended during treatment with interferon alfa-n3 to prevent pregnancy.