Interferon Gamma (Interferon Gamma)
Overview of Interferon Gamma
Interferons are potent cytokines that possess antiviral, immunomodulating and antiproliferative actions. The interferones bind to specific cell-surface receptors that initiate a series of intracellular events, induction of certain enzymes, inhibition of cell-proliferation, and enhancement of immune activities. it-1b is a parenteral recombinant DNA drug that is essentially identical to natural gamma interferon. Interferon Gamma is chemically and pharmacologically distinct from interferon alfa or interferon beta. Recombinant it-1b is derived from genetically engineered Escherichia coli and is currently used in the treatment of chronic granulomatous disease, an inherited disorder of phagocytic oxidative metabolism. it-1b was approved by the FDA in December 1990. I
Indication of Interferon Gamma
Interferon Gamma is primarily indicated in conditions like Chronic granulomatonus disease, and can also be given in adjunctive therapy as an alternative drug of choice in Adjunct in the treatment of opiod dependence, Leishmaniasis, Lepromatous leprosy, Oncological indications.
Contraindication of Interferon Gamma
Interferon Gamma is contraindicated in conditions like Hypersensitivity.
Side Effects of Interferon Gamma
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Interferon Gamma, which give rise to further complications include Bronchospasm, Pancreatitis, Neutropenia, Hyponatremia, Interstitial pneumonitis, Hypoglycemia, Hepatic insufficiency, Renal insufficiency.,Interferon Gamma produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Myocardial infarction, GI bleeding, Pulmonary embolism, Heart failure. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Interferon Gamma therapy.,The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Interferon Gamma include Ataxia, Dizziness, Clouding of conciousness.,The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Interferon Gamma are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Headache, Fatigue, Nausea, Vomiting, Fever, Myalgia, Chills, Parkinsonism, Arthralgia, Syncope, Tachypnea.
Precautions of Interferon Gamma
It should be used with caution in patients with any pre-existing liver, kidney, heart or thyroid disease, blood disorders, history of depression or other mental condition, lung disease, diabetes, seizures, brain tumor, multiple sclerosis, lupus, sarcoidosis or any drug allergy. It should be used with caution when engaging in activities requiring alertness. Limit alcohol intake. It should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Im injection should be administered with caution in the patients receiving Interferon gamma. The drug is contraindicated in the patient with the prior history of E.coli protein hypersensitivity.