What is alpha interferon used for?

What is alpha interferon used for?

Alpha interferon is a cytokine produced by the innate immune system in response to environmental exposures including viral infections. Alpha interferon in various formulations has been developed as therapy of several forms of cancer and viral infections, but its major use has been as therapy of chronic hepatitis C.

What type of infection can be treated by injections of alfa interferon?

This medication is used to treat various cancers (e.g., leukemia, melanoma, AIDS-related Kaposi’s sarcoma). It is also used to treat virus infections (e.g., chronic hepatitis B, chronic hepatitis C, condylomata acuminata). This medication is the same as a protein that your body naturally produces (interferon).

Which is the cause for an interferon in the body?

What side effects can result from interferon? Interferon is a protein released by the cells of the body when they are under attack from a virus or other invader. When interferon is released, it sets off a series of reactions in nearby cells to help them defend against the infection.

Is interferon poisonous?

Preliminary data show evidence for some growth retardation in patients receiving long-term interferon therapy. Laboratory evidence of toxicity in the form of decreased WBC, RBC, and platelet counts occurred in five patients, and increased liver enzymes occurred in 16 patients.

How do interferons work against viruses?

Interferon is secreted by cells in response to stimulation by a virus or other foreign substance, but it does not directly inhibit the virus’s multiplication. Rather, it stimulates the infected cells and those nearby to produce proteins that prevent the virus from replicating within them.

How much is interferon injection?

The cost for Intron A injectable powder for injection 10000000 intl units is around $330 for a supply of 1 powder for injection, depending on the pharmacy you visit….Injectable Powder For Injection.