Peginterferon-alfa

Peginterferon alfa is a medication used in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C and, in certain cases, melanoma. It is a form of interferon that has been pegylated, meaning a polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecule has been attached to the interferon molecule. This modification increases the medication's half-life, allowing for less frequent dosing compared to unmodified interferon.

Medical Uses

Peginterferon alfa is primarily used in the management of chronic hepatitis C, a viral infection that affects the liver. It is often prescribed in combination with other antiviral drugs, such as ribavirin or direct-acting antivirals, to enhance the antiviral effect. The goal of therapy is to achieve a sustained virologic response, which is indicative of the virus being undetectable in the blood months after treatment has concluded.

In addition to its use in hepatitis C, peginterferon alfa may be used as an adjuvant treatment in patients with melanoma, particularly those at high risk of recurrence after surgery. Its role in melanoma treatment is to stimulate the immune system to attack melanoma cells.

Mechanism of Action

Peginterferon alfa works by stimulating the body's immune response to fight off viral infections. It binds to interferon receptors on the surface of cells, activating intracellular pathways that lead to the production of enzymes that inhibit viral replication. The pegylation process, which involves attaching a PEG molecule to the interferon, slows the absorption and degradation of the drug, thereby prolonging its action in the body.

Side Effects

The use of peginterferon alfa can be associated with a range of side effects, some of which can be severe. Common side effects include flu-like symptoms, such as fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. Other possible side effects include depression, anxiety, irritability, changes in blood counts, and thyroid dysfunction. Due to the potential for serious side effects, patients undergoing treatment with peginterferon alfa require regular monitoring.

Administration

Peginterferon alfa is administered via subcutaneous injection. The frequency of dosing depends on the specific formulation (e.g., peginterferon alfa-2a or peginterferon alfa-2b) and the condition being treated. Patients are often trained to self-administer the injections at home.

See Also

• Interferon
• Chronic hepatitis C
• Melanoma
• Ribavirin