interferon alfa-n3

Pronunciation: IN ter FEER on AL fa

Brand: Alferon N

What is the most important information I should know about interferon alfa-n3?

Call your doctor if your genital warts do not completely clear up within 3 months after your last injection of interferon alfa-n3.

What is interferon alfa-n3?

Interferon alfa-n3 is used to treat genital warts in adults. This medicine is for use only on the outside of the body.

Interferon alfa-n3 is usually given after other treatments have failed.

Interferon alfa-n3 may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before receiving interferon alfa-n3?

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

  • low white blood cell (WBC) counts;
  • an autoimmune disorder such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or psoriasis;
  • liver or kidney disease;
  • depression or mental illness;
  • heart problems; or
  • a thyroid disorder.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How is interferon alfa-n3 given?

Interferon alfa-n3 is injected directly into each genital wart lesion, usually given 2 times per week for up to 8 weeks.

A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

Your lesions may only partially clear up after 8 weeks, but you may notice improvement even after your treatment ends.

Tell your doctor if your warts do not completely clear up within 3 months after your last injection.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your interferon alfa-n3 injection.

What happens if I overdose?

In a medical setting an overdose would be treated quickly.

What should I avoid while receiving interferon alfa-n3?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What are the possible side effects of interferon alfa-n3?

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction (hives, chest tightness, wheezing, difficult breathing, swelling in your face or throat) or a severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling).

Call your doctor at once if you have:

  • chest pain or pressure;
  • a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
  • blurred vision;
  • a hoarse voice; or
  • low white blood cell counts --fever, mouth sores, skin sores, sore throat, cough.

Common side effects may include:

  • headache;
  • vomiting;
  • fever, chills, flu-like symptoms; or
  • joint or muscle pain.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect interferon alfa-n3?

Other drugs may affect interferon alfa-n3, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Where can I get more information?

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about interferon alfa-n3.

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