Class: Biologic therapy

Generic Name: Peginterferon (PEG-in- ter-FEAR-on)
Trade Name: Pegasys®

For which conditions is this drug approved? Peginterferon is FDA approved for the treatment of hepatitis C. It is important for patients to remember that physicians have the ability to prescribe medication for conditions other than those for which the drug has been approved by the FDA. Patients who have received a prescription of this drug for a condition other than which it is approved may wish to discuss this issue with their physician.
What is the mechanism of action? Peginterferon belongs to a group of agents called cytokines. Interferon alpha produces its anti-cancer effects by stimulating the immune system to help fight the cancer.

How is peginterferon typically given (administered)? Peginterferon may administered as an injection under the skin (subcutaneous), into the eye, or into the nose (intranasal). The dose depends on several factors, including the condition being treated, the size of the patient, and the overall health of the patient.

How are patients typically monitored? Patients will usually have scheduled meetings with their healthcare provider while they are being treated with peginterferon.  Typically, blood will be drawn to check levels of blood cells and to monitor functions of some organ systems, such as the kidneys or liver.  Patients may also undergo physical examinations, scans or other measures to assess side effects and response to therapy. Patients will also typically have their thyroid functioning monitored, blood lipid levels monitored and undergo an eye exam.  Patients may also undergo examinations of their lungs and heart. In addition, patients may be assessed for emotional stability, as peginterferon has been associated with depression and suicidal thoughts.

What are the common (occur in 30% or more of patients) side effects of treatment with peginterferon?

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Chills
• Muscle pain
• Headache
• Irritability
• Difficulty sleeping

What are the less common (occur in 10% to 29% of patients) side effects of treatment with peginterferon?

• Pain
• Diarrhea
• Low levels of white blood cells – increases risk of infection
• Weight loss
• Joint pain
• Dizziness
• Depression
• Skin abnormalities
• Pain at injection site
• Low levels of red blood cells – increases risk of anemia
• Low levels of platelets – increases risk of bleeding
• Hair loss

This is not a complete list of side effects. Some patients may experience other side effects that are not listed here. Patients may wish to discuss with their physician the other less common side effects of this drug, some of which may be serious.

Some side effects may require medical attention. Other side effects do not require medical attention and may go away during treatment. Patients should check with their physician about any side effects that continue or are bothersome.
What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?

• Pay careful attention to the physician’s instructions and inform the physician of any side effects.
• Maintain adequate rest and nutrition.
• Wear sunscreen and protective clothing and try to minimize sun exposure.
• Drink plenty of fluids. (Patients should ask their physician about the amount of liquid to consume during a day.)
• Eat small meals frequently to help alleviate nausea.
• If possible, patients should avoid large crowds or persons who are sick or not feeling well, as this drug may leave some patients susceptible to infection.
• Wash hands often to reduce the risk of infection.
• Avoid activities that may cause injury or bruising.
• Use a soft toothbrush and an electric razor to prevent cuts on the mouth or skin.

Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?

• Patients should inform their physician if they are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a family in the near future. This drug may cause birth defects. It is important to use some kind of birth control while undergoing treatment. Also, patients may want to talk to their physician if they are considering having children in the future, since some drugs may cause fertility problems.
• It is important that patients inform their physician of any pre-existing conditions (chicken pox, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, lung disease, etc.) as they may worsen with this drug.
• Patients should inform their physician of any other medication they are taking (whether prescription or over-the-counter, including vitamins, herbs, etc.) as they may interfere with treatment.
• Patients should check with their physician before starting any new drug or nutritional supplement.
• Patients should inform their physician of any known drug or food allergies or any reactions to medications they have experienced in the past.

When should patients notify their physician?

• Confusion
• Depression/feelings of suicide
• Persistent fever
• Swelling of ankles or feet
• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Noticeable changes in heart rate or rhythm
• Vision changes
• Excessive urinating and extreme thirst
• Yellowing of skin or eyes
• Abdominal pain
• Numbness or tingling of hands or feet
• Dizziness
• Bloody diarrhea
• Psoriasis that worsens with treatment
• Stomach or lower back pain
• Persistent or severe diarrhea
• Flu or cold-like symptoms: fever, chills, sore throat, cough
• Signs of infection – redness, swelling, pus, tenderness
• Persistent or severe fatigue
• Unexplained or pronounced bleeding (nosebleeds, bruising, blood in the urine, black tarry stools, etc.)

What is a package insert?
A package insert is required by the FDA and contains a summary of the essential scientific information needed for the safe and effective use of the drug for healthcare providers and consumers.  A package insert typically includes information regarding specific indications, administration schedules, dosing, side effects, contraindications, results from some clinical trials, chemical structure, pharmacokinetics and metabolism of the specific drug. By carefully reviewing the package insert, you will get the most complete and current information about how to safely use this drug. If you do not have the package insert for the drug you are using, your pharmacist or physician may be able to provide you with a copy.

Copyright © 2010 CancerConnect Last updated 07/10.

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