Peginterferon alfa-2a (Pegylated Interferon alfa-2a) | MedexInfo

Peginterferon alfa-2a (Pegylated Interferon alfa-2a)

Rx Only

Generic NamePeginterferon alfa-2a

Therapeutic ClassInterferon, Immunomodulator

Common Dose180 mcg SC once weekly

Max / 24hAs per clinical protocol

PregnancyCategory C

Indications ▼

Chronic hepatitis B infection

Chronic hepatitis C infection (with or without ribavirin)

Malignant melanoma and other select malignancies

Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼

Mechanism: Binds to cell surface receptors, activates JAK-STAT signaling, induces antiviral, antiproliferative, and immunomodulatory responses.

Pharmacokinetics: Pegylation prolongs half-life (~80 hours). Administered SC; metabolized in liver; excreted slowly. Peak plasma concentration ~72–96 hours after injection.

Dosage & Administration ▼

Patient Category	Recommended Dose	Max / 24h
Adults (Hepatitis C)	180 mcg SC once weekly (often with ribavirin)	As per protocol
Adults (Hepatitis B)	180 mcg SC once weekly	As per protocol
Elderly / Renal Impairment	Use with caution; monitor blood counts and liver function	As per clinical guidance

Note: Administer SC into thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. Rotate injection sites. Monitor CBC, liver function, and thyroid function regularly.

Side Effects ▼

Common: Flu-like symptoms, fatigue, headache, myalgia

Occasional: Nausea, injection site reactions, mood changes

Rare: Depression, autoimmune disorders, cytopenias, thyroid dysfunction

Contraindications ▼

Hypersensitivity to interferons

Severe psychiatric disorders

Uncontrolled autoimmune disease

Drug Interaction ▼

Ribavirin: commonly co-administered; monitor for anemia

Immunosuppressants: may reduce efficacy

Other hepatotoxic drugs: monitor liver function

Pregnancy & Lactation ▼

Category C; use only if benefit outweighs risk

Excretion in breast milk unknown; monitor infant if used during lactation

Clinical / Research Summary ▼

Effective in viral suppression and seroconversion in chronic hepatitis B and C.

Weekly dosing improves patient compliance compared to non-pegylated interferons.

Regular monitoring minimizes risk of hematologic and psychiatric complications.

Patient Counseling Points ▼

Rotate injection sites to reduce local irritation.

Report severe fatigue, mood changes, or signs of infection immediately.

Adhere to monitoring schedule for CBC, liver, and thyroid function.

Storage & Handling ▼

Store refrigerated 2–8°C; do not freeze

Protect from light

Keep out of reach of children

Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼

Bangladesh:

Optipeg‑A® 135 mcg/0.5 ml Optipeg‑A® 180 mcg/0.5 ml Pegferon® 180 mcg/0.5 ml Pegin® 135 mcg/0.5 ml Pegin® 180 mcg/0.5 ml

Global:

Pegasys® Peginterferon alfa-2a (Generic)

Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Reference Hubs:

• Drug Class: Interferons • Conditions: Hepatitis B & C • Clinical Evidence & Trials