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Interferon Alfa 2B Injection for Dermatology Surgery

Interferon is a protein that occurs naturally in the body in small amounts.  Your injection will be a protein that is synthetically produced in a large dose.

 

Administration

 

It is given as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection most often in the abdomen or thigh.  As a rule, injections are given 3 times a week.  Interferon is given to stimulate the body’s own immune system to fight cancer.

 

Side Effects

 

Common side effects

  • Flu-like symptoms: chills, fever, joint, and muscle pains.  You may take Tylenol® before the injection to help reduce these symptoms.
  • Fatigue: feeling of tiredness, and having no energy
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Decreased appetite
  • Decreased blood count (your doctor will be ordering lab tests)
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Weight loss

Less common side effects

  • Skin irritation at the injection site
  • Dizziness
  • Depression
  • Hair loss
  • Pins and needles feeling in finger and toes

Precautions:

  • Pregnancy should be avoided during treatment and for a few months after treatment is over.  Interferon may affect your ability to have children.  In women, it may affect the menstrual cycle.  In men, it may lower the sperm count.
  • You should not have any vaccinations while you are having interferon treatments or for 3 months after you have finished your treatment.
  • Tell your doctor if you have a history of heart disease as you may be at greater risk for complications.  If you have shingles or have recently been exposed to chicken pox, Interferon may cause a flare up.
Special Concerns
  • Keep the medicine in the refrigerator until just before you use it.
  • You will be shown how to mix the drug and give an injection.  The nursing staff in the clinic will help you with this.
  • Do not take aspirin or aspirin-like products (ibuprofen) or corticosteroids while receiving Interferon.  These drugs alter the effects of Interferon.

 

Dermatology Surgery Clinic, 451 Junction Rd, (608) 265-0700.

 

 

 

 

 



The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Last Updated: 07/20/2011

Copyright © 07/20/2011 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. UWH #5994

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