II. Indications
- Chronic Hepatitis B Infection
-
Hepatitis C Infection
- See Hepatitis C Treatment with Interferon and Ribavirin
- Replaced by other Hepatitis C Antiviral Regimens, with the exception of a few Genotypes
III. Contraindications
- Decompensated Cirrhosis (Child-Pugh Class >=6)
- Autoimmune Hepatitis
IV. Mechanism
- See Interferon Alfa-2B
- Pegylated Interferon is recombinant Interferon alfa conjugated to Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)
- PEG component decreases Interferon clearance and extends its therapeutic effects
- Pegylated Interferon is typically preferred over the non-pegylated Interferon (e.g. Interferon Alfa-2B)
V. Dosing: Chronic Hepatitis B Infection
- Store in refrigerator
- Adult
- Dose 180 mg SQ in Abdomen or thigh once weekly for 48 weeks
- Renal: Decrease dose if eGFR <30 ml/min or Hemodialysis
- Dose 135 mcg SQ weekly
VI. Adverse Effects
VII. Safety
- Pregnancy Category C
- Avoid in Lactation
VIII. Monitoring
IX. Resources
- Peginterferon Alfa-2A (DailyMed)