Interferon Alpha 2A

Interferon Alpha 2A is used in the treatment of follicular lymphoma and hairy cell leukemia. It works by altering cell function/growth and the body's natural defenses (immune system) in many ways.

Interferon Alpha 2A is given as an injection by a qualified medical professional. Your doctor will decide what dose is necessary and how often you need to take it. This will depend on what you are being treated for and may change from time to time. You should take it exactly as your doctor has advised. Taking it in the wrong way or taking too much can cause very serious side effects. It may take several weeks or months for you to see or feel the benefits but do not stop taking it unless your doctor tells you to.

Headache, flu-like symptoms, sweating, fatigue, and muscle pain are some common side effects of this medicine. This medicine may reduce the number of blood cells (white blood cells) in your blood, thereby, increasing the susceptibility to infections. Regular blood tests are required to check your blood cells along with heart, liver and blood sugar level. You must have to inform your doctor immediately if you notice mood change, depression, and change in vision.

Before taking it, tell your doctor if you have heart disease, liver, or kidney problems or are taking any medicines to treat infections. Many other medicines can affect, or be affected by, this medicine so let your healthcare team know all medications you are using. This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy. The use of effective contraception by both males and females during treatment is important to avoid pregnancy.

• Follicular lymphoma
• Hairy cell leukemia

Follicular lymphoma
Follicular lymphoma is a cancer of the white blood cells in our body. White blood cells are those cells that help us to fight infections. Interferon Alpha 2A stimulates the immune system to restrict cancer growth, and blocks the cancer growth. Avoid being in crowds and wash your hands often to prevent any infections. Have plenty of fluids, unless otherwise advised by the doctor not to.

Hairy cell leukemia
Hairy cell leukemia is a kind of blood cancer in which there is excessive production of specific white blood cells (that fight infections) and they resemble hairy-shape when seen under a microscope. Interferon Alpha 2A boosts the immune system to kill the cancer cells and stops them from multiplying. It is an effective medicine but you should discuss the side effects and benefits of this medicine with your doctor. You should avoid drinking alcohol and smoking while having this treatment and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them

Common side effects of Exxura

• Decreased appetite
• Decreased calcium level in blood
• Decreased white blood cell count
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Flu-like symptoms
• Hair loss
• Headache
• Joint pain
• Muscle pain
• Nausea
• Rigors
• Sweating
• Vomiting

Your doctor or nurse will guide you how to use this medicine.

Interferon Alpha 2A modulates the body's immune system.

• Interferon Alpha 2A is given as an injection into the skin or veins under the supervision of a doctor.

• Do not skip any dose and complete the course as suggested by your doctor.

• Use an effective method of birth control to avoid pregnancy while taking this medication.

• Your doctor may get regular blood tests done to monitor your blood sugar level, blood cell count in your blood and liver function.

• Inform your doctor if you experience mood change, depression, change in vision and difficulty breathing.

• It is advisable to stay hydrated or drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication.

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