Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

INTERFERON GAMMA 1B - INJECTABLE

(in-ter-FEER-on gamma)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Actimmune

Uses

This medication is a certain type of interferon used to reduce the frequency and severity of serious infections due to a genetic disorder called Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD). It is often used along with antibiotics to help prevent these serious infections. This medication is also used to slow down the progress of another genetic bone disease (malignant osteopetrosis).

How To Use

Before using, gently swirl the vial solution and check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Do not shake the vial. Doing so may decrease the effectiveness of the drug. Learn how to prepare and inject the drug and review all instructions in the product package. If any of the information is unclear, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Inject this medication under the skin (SC) usually three times weekly (e.g., Monday, Wednesday, Friday); or as directed by your doctor. It is recommended to inject this drug under the skin of the upper arms (deltoid region) or thighs (anterior thigh region). The dosage is based on your weight, medical condition, and response to therapy. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.

Side Effects

Flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever, chills, unusual weakness, muscle aches), headache, nausea, and vomiting may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: muscle pain, joint pain, redness/swelling/pain at the injection site, stomach/abdominal pain. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes, back pain, dizziness or fainting, disorientation, difficulty walking, trouble breathing. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: unusually fast heartbeat, chest pain, tremor, one-sided weakness, yellowing eyes or skin, dark urine, change in amount of urine, pain or swelling in the lower legs, seizures, black or bloody stool, persistent sore throat and fever, unusual bruising or bleeding. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, severe trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: heart problems (e.g., arrhythmias, heart failure or disease), seizure disorders, nervous system problems (e.g., tremor, problems walking, chronic dizziness), low blood cell counts (e.g., neutropenia, thrombocytopenia), any allergies (especially to other interferon products). This drug is not recommended for use during pregnancy due to the risk of serious side effects for a pregnant woman. Consult your doctor for more details. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially: drugs that may suppress your immune system (e.g., cancer chemotherapy, prednisone, cyclosporine). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., blood counts, liver and kidney function) will be performed to monitor your progress and/or possible side effects.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to establish a new dosing schedule.

Storage

Store in the refrigerator between 36 and 46 degrees F (2 and 8 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Do not leave vials out of the refrigerator for greater than 12 hours. Discard any unused portion of the vial or any vials left out of the refrigerator for greater than 12 hours.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).