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Interferon Alfa-n3

Drug Information

Common brand names:

Alferon N

Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, & Foods

What Are Nutrient Interactions
Types of interactions:BeneficialAdverseCheck

Replenish Depleted Nutrients

  • none

Reduce Side Effects

  • Fish Oil
    Depression is one of the common side effects of interferon-alpha. In a double-blind trial, supplementing with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a fatty acid present in fish oil, significantly decreased the incidence of depression in patients taking interferon-alpha for hepatitis C. The amount of EPA used was 3.5 g per day for 2 weeks prior to the start of interferon-alpha therapy, and then discontinued during interferon-alpha treatment. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), another fatty acid in fish oil, was not effective for preventing interferon-alpha-induced depression.

Support Medicine

  • none

Reduces Effectiveness

  • none

Potential Negative Interaction

  • none

Explanation Required

  • none

The Drug-Nutrient Interactions table may not include every possible interaction. Taking medicines with meals, on an empty stomach, or with alcohol may influence their effects. For details, refer to the manufacturers’ package information as these are not covered in this table. If you take medications, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a new supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.

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