What is Pegasys?:
Pegasys is a specially formulated interferon that allows the user to be dosed much less often than traditional interferon.Form:
Subcutaneous injectionDosage:
- If used alone the dose is 180mcg once each week for 48 weeks.
- If used in combination with ribavirin (Copegus, Rebetol), the dose is 180mcg each week.
Side Effects to Report to Your Doctor:
- Life threatening or fatal events such as depression, suicide, relapse of drug abuse or overdose, and bacterial infections.
- Psychiatric reactions such as depression, irritability, and anxiety.
- "Flu-like symptoms such as lethargy, fatigue, and headache.
- Skin disorders
- Gastrointestinal disorders
Who Shouldn't Take Pegasys?:
- Previous allergy to Pegasys or its components.
- People with autoimmune hepatitis
- Women who are pregnant.
- Men whose female partners are pregnant.
For More Information:
For more information about Pegasys try About.com's Drug Finder.
