What is Interferon chemotherapy?

Interferon alfa-2b belongs to the category of therapies called biologic response modifiers (BRM), also called immunotherapy. This is a type of treatment that mobilizes the body’s immune system to fight cancer. The therapy mainly consists of stimulating the immune system to help it do its job more effectively.

How is Interferon used to treat cancer?

Interferon alfa stimulates T cells and other immune system cells to attack the cancer. It can also encourage cancer cells to send out chemicals that attract immune system cells to them.

What are the side effects of interferon?

These side effects can include:

• swelling or other reactions at the injection site.
• flu-like symptoms such as headache, tiredness, and weakness.
• chills.
• fever.
• trouble sleeping.
• nausea.
• vomiting.
• diarrhea.

Do they still use Interferon for melanoma?

In 1995, interferon became the first adjuvant therapy that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved to treat people who have had surgery to remove advanced melanoma tumors. Following the removal of the primary melanoma, interferon may stop the growth and spread of any remaining melanoma cells.

Is interferon still used?

As well as occurring naturally in the body, interferon is also used as a treatment for various health disorders, including multiple sclerosis (MS), some types of cancer, and hepatitis C.

Does interferon cause hair loss?

Your hair may become thin, brittle, or may fall out. This typically begins two to three weeks after treatment starts. This hair loss can be all body hair, including pubic, underarm, legs/arms, eyelashes, and nose hairs.

Can you drink alcohol with interferon?

While it is safe to drink alcohol in moderation when you are taking interferon, we recommend you do not exceed the recommended weekly limits of a maximum of 21 units of alcohol per week for a man and a maximum of 14 units of alcohol per week for a woman.

Is there a generic for interferon?

Interferon alpha is the generic name for the trade name drugs Intron® A, Roferon®-A. In some cases, health care professionals may use the trade names Intron® A, Roferon®-A or other names such as IFN-alpha and alpha interferon when referring to the generic drug name interferon alfa.

Is interferon like chemo?

Interferon-alfa2b is different than a chemotherapy drug; it is actually a natural part of your body’s immune system. It is known as a cytokine, which are chemicals normally secreted by cells called leukocytes in response to a virus, bacteria, or other foreign intruders.

What kind of drug is interferon?

Interferon alfa belongs to the category of therapies called biologic response modifiers (BRM), also called immunotherapy. This is a type of treatment that mobilizes the body’s immune system to fight cancer.

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