Interferon gamma is used on its own or together with other medicines to treat chronic granulomatous diseases (inherited blood disorder affecting the white blood cell function) and malignant osteopetrosis (inherited disorder that causes an abnormal bone growth).
Use Interferon gamma exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Interferon gamma is to be injected subcutaneously (into the fatty layer under the skin, usually in the thigh, upper arm or abdomen area).
Remember to rotate the injection sites. Do not inject into the same area all the time. New injection sites should be at least 1.5 inches away from the previous injection site. Do not inject near the navel (belly button).
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on your condition.
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember and return to your normal dosing schedule thereafter.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to use your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Do not use Interferon gamma if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to this medicine or any of its ingredients.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- history of seizures
- myelosuppression (bone marrow disorder that causes reduced production of blood cells)
- heart disease
- kidney disease
- liver disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly. Routine tests (e.g. urinalysis, CBC with differential, and platelets, electrolytes, BUN and creatinine levels) may be done prior to treatment initiation and thereafter. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
This medicine may cause fatigue, confusion, disorientation, or convulsions. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects include any of the following: fever, headache, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, injection site pain, back pain, and rash.
If you develop rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes, stop the medicine and inform your doctor quickly. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking zidovudine (medicine for HIV infection).
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in the refrigerator, between 2-8°C. Do not allow to freeze. If frozen, this medicine will become ineffective and should not be used.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.