|
- Depression: There have been reports of depression and suicide among patients who received interferons. However, it is unclear whether the condition being treated or interferons caused the depression.
- Flu–like symptoms: Flu–like symptoms, including fever, chills, muscle aches, headache, and general feeling of discomfort, have been reported after injections with interferons. These symptoms, which occur in up to 50% of patients receiving intravenous interferons, vary from mild to severe. In general, flu–like symptoms diminish with future injections.
- Tissue damage: All interferons can damage the tissue near the injection site, including the skin. This is most common with interferon beta–1b (Betaseron ®) and interferon alfa–2b (Intron–A ®).
- Other: Other side effects may include fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, joint aches, abdominal pain, back pain, and dizziness. Less common side effects may include an eating disorder called anorexia, stuffy nose, increased heart rate, confusion, low white blood cell count, low red blood cell count, low platelet count, increase in liver enzymes, increase in triglycerides, mild hair loss, temporary skin rash, swelling (edema), difficulty breathing, and cough.
 |
Learn
