Generic name: interferon alfa-n3 [ in-ter-feer-on-al-fa ]
Drug class: Interferons
Dosage form: injectable solution (5000000 intl units/ml)
Availability: Prescription only
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data available
Brand names: Alferon n
What is Interferon alfa-n3?
Interferon alfa-n3 is used to treat genital warts in adults. interferon alfa-n3 is for use only on the outside of the body.
Interferon alfa-n3 is usually given after other treatments have failed.
Interferon alfa-n3 may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Call your doctor if your genital warts do not completely clear up within 3 months after your last injection of interferon alfa-n3.
How should I take Interferon alfa-n3
Interferon alfa-n3 is injected directly into each genital wart lesion, usually given 2 times per week for up to 8 weeks.
A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
Your lesions may only partially clear up after 8 weeks, but you may notice improvement even after your treatment ends.
Tell your doctor if your warts do not completely clear up within 3 months after your last injection.
Dosing information
Usual Adult Dose for Condylomata Acuminata:
Refractory or recurring external condylomata acuminata:
0.05 mL (250,000 international units) per wart, injected intralesionally 2 times a week for up to 8 weeks
-The maximum recommended dose per treatment session is 0.5 mL (2.5 million international units).
-Therapy should not be repeated for at least 3 months after the initial 8-week course of therapy (unless existing warts grow or new warts appear).
Use: For the intralesional treatment of refractory or recurring external condylomata acuminata
Before Taking
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
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low white blood cell (WBC) counts;
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an autoimmune disorder such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or psoriasis;
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liver or kidney disease;
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depression or mental illness;
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heart problems; or
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a thyroid disorder.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your interferon alfa-n3 injection.
What happens if I overdose?
In a medical setting an overdose would be treated quickly.
What should I avoid while using Interferon alfa-n3?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
Interferon alfa-n3 side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction (hives, chest tightness, wheezing, difficult breathing, swelling in your face or throat) or a severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling).
Interferon alfa-n3 may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:
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chest pain or pressure;
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a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
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blurred vision;
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a hoarse voice; or
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low white blood cell counts--fever, mouth sores, skin sores, sore throat, cough.
Common side effects of interferon alfa-n3 may include:
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headache;
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vomiting;
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fever, chills, flu-like symptoms; or
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joint or muscle pain.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See more: Interferon alfa-n3 Side EffectsWhat other drugs will affect Interferon alfa-n3?
Other drugs may affect interferon alfa-n3, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.