Interferon gamma-1b
Generic name: interferon gamma-1b [ in-ter-FEER-on-GAM-a ]
Brand name: Actimmune
Dosage form: subcutaneous solution (2000000 intl units/0.5 mL)
Drug class:Interferons
What is interferon gamma-1b?
Interferon gamma-1b is made from human proteins. Interferons help the body fight viral infections.
Interferon gamma-1b is used to prevent serious infections in people with a condition called chronic granulomatous disease. Interferon gamma-1b is also used to slow the progression of a bone disorder called malignant osteopetrosis.
Interferon gamma-1b may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Interferon gamma-1b 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 interferon gamma-1b if you are allergic to interferon gamma-1b, or to drug products made from E. coli bacteria.
To make sure interferon gamma-1b is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
kidney 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.
Interferon gamma-1b is not approved for use by anyone younger than 1 year old.
How should I use interferon gamma-1b?
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Interferon gamma-1b 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 interferon gamma-1b in the same syringe with other injec...
