Prototype Drug Unit 5 & 7- Interferon Alfa-2b (Intron A)

Question 1

Therapeutic classfication

Answer 1

Immunostimulant

Question 2

Pharmacologic classification

Answer 2

Interferon, biologic response modifier

Question 3

Therapeutic effects and uses

Answer 3

Used for conditions like hairy cell leukemia, malignant melanoma, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and AIDS-related Kaposis sarcoma and viral infections. Also used for chronic myelogenous leukemia, bladder cancer, herpes simplex virus, multiple myeloma, renal cell cancer, HIV, VZV, and West Nile Virus

Question 4

Mechanism of action

Answer 4

First: enhances the general functions of the immune system
Second: The drug suppresses the growth of cancer cells

Question 5

Adverse effects

Answer 5

Flulike syndrome of fever, chills, dizziness, weight loss, and fatigue. These symptoms can diminish as therapy progresses

Question 6

Black Box Warning

Answer 6

IFNs may cause or aggravate fatal or life-threatening neuropsychiatric, autoimmune, ischemic, or infectious disorders.

Question 7

Contraindications/precautions

Answer 7

Neonates and infants because it contains benzyl alcohol. If infection occurs during therapy, antiinfectives should be started immedicately

Question 8

Drug interactions

Answer 8

Increases theophylline levels. Zidovudine may increase hematologic toxicity and cause immunosuppression