Description

Interferon alfa-2b therapy may be associated with a number of adverse effects that are unpleasant but which do not preclude continued therapy. Because lower doses may be less effective, reducing or stopping the drug is not recommended unless a serious reaction (hematologic toxicity, severe depression or cardiac ischemia) occurs. A number of adjustments can make less serious adverse reactions more tolerable.


 

NOTE: Dosing adjustment for hematologic toxicity is discussed in Chapter 25 and for severe depression in Chapter 18.

Reaction

Intervention

mild depression

(1) Administer an antidepressant (SSRI).

(2) Monitor closely for severe depression.

fatigue

(1) Pacing activities.

(2) Balancing rest and exercise.

(3) Good nutrition.

(4) Adequate hydration with noncaffeinated fluids.

flu-like symptoms (occurs 6-8 hours after injection)

(1) Perform injections in the evening..

(2) Prophylactic administration of an NSAID or acetaminophen.

(3) Adequate hydration with noncaffeinated fluids.

(4) Mild exercise.

headache

Administer an NSAID or acetaminophen.

injection site reaction

(1) Administer NSAID or acetaminophen.

(2) Ice the injection site.

myalgia or musculoskeletal pain

Administer an NSAID or acetaminophen.

nausea and/or vomiting

Administer an antiemetic agent.

 


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