Interferon Gamma-1b Side Effects and Warnings

What are the precautions when taking this medicine?

• If you have bleeding problems, talk with healthcare provider.

• If you have heart disease, talk with healthcare provider. The flu-like side effects of interferon may be stressful to heart patients.

• If you have seizures, talk with healthcare provider.

• Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.

• Use birth control that you can trust to prevent pregnancy while taking this medicine.

What are some possible side effects of this medicine?

• Irritation where the shot is given.

• Flu-like symptoms. These include headache, weakness, fever, shakes, aches, pains, and sweating. Mild pain medicine may help.

• Diarrhea.

• Nausea or vomiting. Small frequent meals, frequent mouth care, sucking hard, sugar-free candy, or chewing sugar-free gum may help.

• Belly pain.

• Muscle weakness.

• Depression.

Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately

• If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center or emergency department immediately.

• Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.

• Signs or symptoms of depression, suicidal thoughts, nervousness, emotional ups and downs, abnormal thinking, anxiety, or lack of interest in life.

• Unusual bruising or bleeding.

• Dark urine or yellow skin or eyes.

• Feeling extremely tired or weak.

• Not able to eat.

• Severe nausea or vomiting.

• Severe belly pain.

• Severe skin irritation.

• If you become pregnant while taking this medicine.

• Any rash.

• No improvement in condition or feeling worse.