ROFERON-A

Drug Name: ROFERON-A

ROFERON-A DESCRIPTION:
INTERFERON ALFA(CON) - INJECTION (in-ter-FEER-on AL-fuh)

COMMON ROFERON-A BRAND NAME(S):
Alferon N, Infergen, Intron A, Roferon-A

ROFERON-A SIDE EFFECTS:
ROFERON-A may cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, muscle aches, chills, diarrhea or stomach pain. These symptoms may subside as your body adjusts to the medication. Acetaminophen may help relieve the fever and headache. If these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor promptly. Unlikely but report promptly: drowsiness, dizziness, sleep disturbances, one-sided weakness (arm/leg), vision changes, poor coordination, irregular heartbeat, intolerance to heat or cold. Very unlikely but report promptly: black stools, persistent sore throat, chest tightness, unusual bleeding/bruising, tingling hands or feet, mental changes, yellowing of the eyes or skin. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE ROFERON-A:
ROFERON-A: ROFERON-A is given by injection. Be sure to understand and follow the dosing schedule to receive maximum benefit from ROFERON-A. Different condition require different dosing schedules. Drink plenty of fluids while using ROFERON-A. Properly store and discard used needles and syringes.

ROFERON-A WARNING:
Patients using ROFERON-A have developed mental and/or emotional conditions (e.g., depression, suicidal thoughts). Notify your doctor immediately if you start feeling sad or depressed.

ROFERON-A USES:
ROFERON-A is used in the treatment of leukemia, certain types of cancer and viral infections.

ROFERON-A PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver or kidney disease, heart disease, thyroid disease, blood disorders, history of depression or other mental condition, lung disease, diabetes, seizures, brain tumor, multiple sclerosis, lupus, sarcoidosis, any allergies (especially drug allergies). Use caution when engaging in activities requiring alertness. Limit alcohol intake. ROFERON-A should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if ROFERON-A is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

ROFERON-A DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all over-the-counter and prescription medications you may use including: zidovudine, barbiturates (e.g., phenobarbital), theophylline, vidarabine, other anticancer drugs. Tell your doctor if you take any drugs that make you drowsy such as: sedatives, sleep medication, psychiatric drugs, drugs for anxiety (e.g., diazepam), anti-seizure drugs (e.g., phenytoin), narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine); certain antihistamines. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

ROFERON-A OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include chills, fever, muscle pain, and loss of appetite.

ROFERON-A NOTES:
ROFERON-A is usually administered initially in the hospital where your condition can be monitored closely. Laboratory tests will be done periodically to be sure the drug is working properly and to monitor for possible side effects.

MISSED ROFERON-A DOSE:
It is important to receive each dose at the scheduled time. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor who will help establish a new dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

ROFERON-A STORAGE:
Store ROFERON-A as directed, usually in the refrigerator. Properly discard of any unused medication after the expiration date. Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854-1166. In Canada call 1-800-668-1507.