Interferon for Myeloma

Overview
Interferon may be referred to more specifically as Interferon alpha-2a or Interferon alpha-2b, or by brand names including Intron A and Roferon-A. In the past, Interferon has been used to modify the immune system and slow the growth of cancer cells in people with multiple myeloma. With the introduction of new medications such as Darzalex, Farydak, Empliciti, and Ninlaro, Interferon now plays a less central role in the treatment of multiple myeloma.

Interferons are proteins produced by the immune system to fight infections and cancer. Natural or synthetic interferon-alpha may be used as part of myeloma treatment. Interferon is believed to work by enhancing the immune system’s response to myeloma.

How do I take it?
Interferon is administered as a subcutaneous or intramuscular injection.

Side effects
Common side effects for Interferon include headache, dizziness, depression, irritability, hair loss, flu-like symptoms, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and injection site reaction.

Rare but serious side effects of Interferon include stroke, heart attack, worsening heart or liver disease, psychosis, suicidal thoughts or behavior, life-threatening gastrointestinal bleeding, severe infections, lung problems, vision problems, and pancreatitis.

For more details about this treatment, visit:

Interferon-alpha in the treatment of multiple myeloma. – Current Drug Targets
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21143148

Interferon alpha 2b – Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
http://www.lls.org/treatment/types-of-treatment...

Interferon alpha 2a – Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
http://www.lls.org/treatment/types-of-treatment...

Roferon-A – RxList
https://www.rxlist.com/roferon-a-drug.htm

Intron A – RxList
https://www.rxlist.com/intron-a-drug.htm