Intron A

Generic Name: interferon alfa-2b

Drug Class: Recombinant Human Interferon Alfa

Company: Merck

Approval Status: Approved

Generic Version Available: No

Drug Indication

Generally, Intron A is not used to treat adults with chronic hepatitis B infections but may be used in children who are at least 1 year old.

Intron A is an injectable medication. It is supplied in powder form that is reconstituted before each use and cannot be stored.

Dosing Info: Do not change your dose or stop taking Intron A without talking to your medical provider.

Many side effects are associated with Intron A, ranging from mild to severe in intensity. Intron A may cause or aggravate life-threatening neuropsychiatric, autoimmune, ischemic or infectious disorders.
Some common side effects are cough, runny nose, sore throat, depression, irritability, moodiness, anxiety, dizziness, dry mouth/skin/eyes, fatigue, weakness flu-like symptoms (chills, fever, joint and muscle aches), gastrointestinal disorders (abdominal pain, decreased appetite, diarrhea, nausea), hair loss, headache, injection site reaction, insomnia, neutropenia (low white cells), pain (back, joint, muscle) and thrombocytopenia (low platelets).

For a review of drug interactions, including prescription and over-the-counter medications and supplements that should not be taken with Intron A or may require dose adjustments, consult the Intron A prescribing information.

There are no adequate, well-controlled studies in pregnant women who have taken Intron A, and this medication should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
The safety of breastfeeding while taking Intron A has not been established, and it is recommended that Intron A or breastfeeding be discontinued.

Last Reviewed: December 22, 2021