Interferon alfa-n3
Interferon alfa-n3 (Alferon N)
Interferon Alfa-n3
(in-ter- FEER-on AL-fah)
Pregnancy Category: C Alferon N (Rx)

Classification: Antineoplastic

Action/Kinetics: Made from pooled human leukocytes induced by incomplete infection with Sendai (avian) virus. Is a sterile, aqueous formulation of purified, natural, human interferon alpha proteins. Binds to receptors on cell surfaces leading to a sequence of events including inhibition of virus replication and suppression of cell proliferation. Also, causes immunomodulation characterized by enhanced phagocytosis by macrophages, augmentation of the cytotoxicity of lymphocytes, and enhancement of human leukocyte antigen expression. Intralesional use of interferon alfa-n3 does not result in detectable plasma levels of the drug.

Uses: Intralesional treatment of refractory or recurring external condylomata acuminata (genital or venereal warts) in clients 18 years of age or older. Investigational: Alpha interferons are being tested for use in a large number of neoplastic diseases and viral infections.

Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to human interferon alpha; clients who are allergic to mouse immunoglobulin (IgG), egg protein, or neomycin (the production process involves a nutrient medium containing neomycin although it has not been detected in the final product). Lactation.

Special Concerns: Due to fever and flu-like symptoms with use of interferon alfa-n3, use with caution in clients with debilitating diseases, including unstable angina, uncontrolled CHF, COPD, diabetes mellitus with ketoacidosis, thrombophlebitis, pulmonary embolism, hemophilia, severe myelosuppression, or seizure disorders. Safety and effectiveness have not been determined in children less than 18 years of age.

Side Effects: Flu-like symptoms: Commonly, fever, headache, myalgias which decrease with repeated doses. Also, chills, fatigue, malaise. CNS: Dizziness, lightheadedness, insomnia, depression, nervousness, decreased ability to concentrate. GI: N&V;, heartburn, diarrhea, tongue hyperesthesia, thirst, altered taste, increased salivation. Musculoskeletal/Skin: Arthralgia, back pain, hot sensation at bottom of feet, tingling of legs/feet, muscle cramps. Respiratory: Nose or sinus drainage, nose bleed, throat tightness, pharyngitis. Miscellaneous: Pruritus, swollen lymph nodes, heat intolerance, visual disturbances, sensitivity to allergens, papular rash on neck, hot flashes, herpes labialis, dysuria, photosensitivity, decreased WBC count.
NOTE: When used for treatment of cancer, the incidence of many of the preceding side effects was increased. Additional side effects were noted including: GI: Constipation, anorexia, stomatitis, dry mouth, mucositis, sore mouth. Laboratory Test Values: Abnormal hemoglobin, WBC count, alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin, platelet count, AST, and GGT. Miscellaneous: Insomnia, blurred vision, ocular rotation pain, sore injection site, chest pains, low BP.

How Supplied: Injection: 5 million IU/mL

Dosage
?Intralesional Injection Condylomata acuminata.
0.05 mL (250,000 IU)/wart twice a week for up to 8 weeks. The maximum recommended dose per treatment session is 0.5 mL (2.5 million IU). The safety and effectiveness of a second course of treatment have not been determined.