Actimmune

Generic name:interferon gamma-1b [ in-ter-FEER-on-GAM-a ]
Drug class:Interferons

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jan 31, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Actimmune?

Actimmune is made from human proteins. Interferons help the body fight viral infections.

Actimmune is used to prevent serious infections in people with a condition called chronic granulomatous disease. This medicine is also used to slow the progression of a bone disorder called malignant osteopetrosis.

Actimmune may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Actimmune can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections and help your blood to clot. You may get an infection or bleed more easily. Call your doctor if you have unusual bruising or bleeding, or signs of infection (fever, chills, body aches).

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Actimmune if you are allergic to Actimmune, or to drug products made from E. coli bacteria.

To make sure Actimmune is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• kidney disease;

• liver disease;

• heart rhythm problems;

• congestive heart failure;

• a nerve-muscle disorder;

• bone marrow suppression;

• a history of transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), including "mini-stroke";

• a history of seizures; or

• an allergy to rubber.

It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

This medicine may affect fertility (your ability to have children), whether you are a man or a woman.

It is not known whether interferon gamma-1b passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using this medicine.

Actimmune is not approved for use by anyone younger than 1 year old.

How should I use Actimmune?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Actimmune is injected under the skin. You may be shown how to use injections at home. Do not give yourself this medicine if you do not understand how to use the injection and properly dispose of used needles and syringes.

Use only the type of syringe supplied with this medicine, or recommended by your pharmacist. Do not mix Actimmune in the same syringe with other injectable medicines.

Do not shake the medication bottle. Prepare your dose only when you are ready to give an injection. Do not use if the medicine has changed colors or has particles in it. Call yo...