Interferon gamma-1b Side Effects

Some side effects of interferon gamma-1b may not be reported. Always consult your doctor or healthcare specialist for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA.

For the Consumer

Applies to interferon gamma-1b: subcutaneous solution

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction while taking interferon gamma-1b: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using interferon gamma-1b and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;

• easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness;

• feeling light-headed, fainting;

• fast or uneven heart rate; or

• sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body.

Less serious side effects of interferon gamma-1b may include:

• problems with memory or concentration;

• weakness, tired feeling, lack of coordination;

• pain or redness where the injection was given;

• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;

• muscle or joint pain; or

• headache.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to interferon gamma-1b: subcutaneous solution

General

General flu-like side effects have been reported most frequently. These have included fever (52%), headache (33%), chills (14%), fatigue (14%), myalgia (6%), and arthralgia (2%). Chest discomfort has been reported.

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects have been reported frequently. These have included diarrhea (14%), vomiting (13%), and nausea (10%). Gastrointestinal bleeding has been reported rarely.

Dermatologic

Dermatologic side effects have included rash (17%).

Local

Local side effects have included erythema or tenderness at the site of injection (14%).

Cardiovascular

Cardiovascular side effects have been reported rarely. These have included hypotension, syncope, tachyarrhythmia, heart block, heart failure, and myocardial infarction.

Nervous system

Nervous system side effects have been reported rarely. These have included confusion, disorientation, gait disturbance, Parkinsonian symptoms, seizure, hallucinations, and transient ischemic attacks.

Respiratory

Respiratory side effects have included tachypnea, bronchospasm, and interstitial pneumonitis.

Hematologic

Hematologic side effects have been reported rarely. These have included deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.

Renal

Renal side effects have included renal insufficiency which was reversible.

Metabolic

Metabolic side effects have included hyponatremia, hyperglycemia, and hypertriglyceridemia.

Immunologic

Immunologic side effects have included increased autoantibodies and lupus-like syndrome.

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