Pegaron
Generic Name
Peginterferon alfa-2a
Manufacturer
ABC Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| pegaron 25 mg capsule | ৳ 10.00 | ৳ 60.00 |
| pegaron 50 mg capsule | ৳ 14.00 | ৳ 84.00 |
| pegaron 75 mg capsule | ৳ 18.00 | ৳ 108.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Pegaron contains Peginterferon alfa-2a, a modified version of interferon alfa-2a. It is used to treat chronic hepatitis B and chronic hepatitis C by boosting the body's immune response and inhibiting viral replication.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Chronic Hepatitis C: 180 mcg subcutaneously once weekly for 24-48 weeks (duration depends on genotype and co-therapy). Chronic Hepatitis B: 180 mcg subcutaneously once weekly for 48 weeks.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is generally required, but close monitoring for adverse effects is recommended.
Renal_impairment
Dose adjustment required. For creatinine clearance 30-50 mL/min, 135 mcg once weekly; for <30 mL/min or hemodialysis, 90 mcg once weekly.
How to Take
Administer by subcutaneous injection into the abdomen or thigh. Rotate injection sites. Do not inject into areas where the skin is tender, bruised, red, or hard. It should be administered on the same day each week.
Mechanism of Action
Peginterferon alfa-2a binds to specific receptors on the surface of cells, initiating an intracellular signaling cascade that leads to the induction of gene expression. This results in antiviral, antiproliferative, and immunomodulatory effects, inhibiting viral replication and enhancing host immune responses.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Antiviral effects are typically seen within weeks to months of initiating treatment.
Excretion
Primarily excreted by the kidneys, with minimal fecal excretion.
Half life
Prolonged elimination half-life of approximately 80 to 160 hours due to pegylation, allowing once-weekly dosing.
Absorption
Slow and sustained absorption after subcutaneous injection. Peak serum concentrations are typically observed 72 to 96 hours post-dose.
Metabolism
The exact metabolic pathway is not fully elucidated, but it is believed to undergo catabolism in the liver and kidneys.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to peginterferon alfa-2a or any component of the formulation.
- Autoimmune hepatitis or history of severe autoimmune disease.
- Decompensated liver disease.
- History of severe psychiatric disorder, especially depression with suicidal ideation.
- Neonates and infants due to benzyl alcohol content (if applicable).
Drug Interactions
Methadone
May reduce methadone levels; monitor for signs of methadone withdrawal.
Ribavirin
Increased risk of anemia and other side effects when combined; dose adjustments may be needed.
Theophylline
Interferon may inhibit cytochrome P450 enzymes, potentially increasing theophylline levels. Monitor serum theophylline levels.
Storage
Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze. Protect from light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Experience with overdose is limited. Management should be supportive and aimed at alleviating any symptoms. Close monitoring for myelosuppression and neurotoxicity is advised.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. If used in combination with ribavirin, pregnancy is contraindicated (Category X). Exercise caution when administering to a nursing mother; it is not known if peginterferon alfa-2a is excreted in human milk.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to peginterferon alfa-2a or any component of the formulation.
- Autoimmune hepatitis or history of severe autoimmune disease.
- Decompensated liver disease.
- History of severe psychiatric disorder, especially depression with suicidal ideation.
- Neonates and infants due to benzyl alcohol content (if applicable).
Drug Interactions
Methadone
May reduce methadone levels; monitor for signs of methadone withdrawal.
Ribavirin
Increased risk of anemia and other side effects when combined; dose adjustments may be needed.
Theophylline
Interferon may inhibit cytochrome P450 enzymes, potentially increasing theophylline levels. Monitor serum theophylline levels.
Storage
Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze. Protect from light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Experience with overdose is limited. Management should be supportive and aimed at alleviating any symptoms. Close monitoring for myelosuppression and neurotoxicity is advised.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. If used in combination with ribavirin, pregnancy is contraindicated (Category X). Exercise caution when administering to a nursing mother; it is not known if peginterferon alfa-2a is excreted in human milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 to 36 months when stored as recommended, consult package insert for exact expiry.
Availability
Hospitals and specialized pharmacies
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Patent expired for original formulation
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of Peginterferon alfa-2a in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B and C, showing sustained virologic response rates.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential (before treatment, at week 2 and 4, then periodically)
- Liver Function Tests (LFTs) (before treatment, at week 2 and 4, then periodically)
- Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) (before treatment and periodically)
- Viral load (HCV RNA or HBV DNA)
Doctor Notes
- Patients on Peginterferon alfa-2a require comprehensive monitoring including regular psychiatric evaluation, hematologic counts, and thyroid function tests due to potential severe adverse effects.
- Consider dose reduction or temporary discontinuation in cases of severe adverse reactions.
Patient Guidelines
- It is crucial to adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage and schedule.
- Report any severe side effects, especially mood changes or depression, to your doctor immediately.
- Do not stop treatment without consulting your doctor.
- Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed by less than 2 days, take it as soon as remembered. If more than 2 days have passed, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.
Driving Precautions
Peginterferon alfa-2a may cause fatigue, dizziness, and impaired concentration. Patients should be cautioned against driving or operating machinery until they know how Pegaron affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle.
- Ensure adequate hydration.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking.
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