Peginterferon alfa: how to take it safely
Pegasys, PegIntron
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats chronic hepatitis B and C.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Inject under the skin of the tummy or thigh once a week, as your health worker showed you. Change the spot each time.
- You will need regular blood tests.
When to take it
Inject once a week, on the same day.
Take it with
Not applicable.
What to avoid
- Alcohol.
- Tell your doctor if you have depression, thyroid problems or autoimmune disease.
- Pregnancy.
Possible side effects
Flu-like symptoms (fever, aches, chills), tiredness, hair thinning, low mood.
Get help if
Low mood, thoughts of harming yourself, severe tiredness, fever with infection, or yellow skin or eyes: get urgent help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.