Drug reference

peginterferon alfa 2a

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Drug class

Anti Virals (Hepatits Viruses)

Mechanism of action

Recombinant alfa-2a interferon w/ polyethylene glycol (PEG) side chain, Immunomodulatory cytokine that enhances phagocytic activity of macrophages and cytotoxic activity of lymphocytes for target cells

Common side effects

  • Alopecia
  • Arthralgia
  • Headache
  • Fatigue/asthenia
  • Myalgia
  • Pyrexia
  • Rigors

Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity reactions (eg, urticaria, angioedema, bronchoconstriction, anaphylaxis, or Stevens-Johnson syndrome) Autoimmune hepatitis Hepatic decompensation (Child-Pugh score >6 [class B and C]) in cirrhotic patients with or without HIV coinfection before treatment Use in neonat…

Related conditions

Frequently asked questions

What drug class is peginterferon alfa 2a?

peginterferon alfa 2a belongs to: Anti Virals.

How does peginterferon alfa 2a work?

Recombinant alfa-2a interferon w/ polyethylene glycol (PEG) side chain, Immunomodulatory cytokine that enhances phagocytic activity of macrophages and cytotoxic activity of lymphocytes for target cells

What are the common side effects of peginterferon alfa 2a?

Alopecia, Arthralgia, Headache, Fatigue/asthenia, Myalgia, Pyrexia, Rigors

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