Biologic Response Modifiers
TERMS
□ interferon alfa-2a (Roferon-A)
□ aldesleukin (Proleukin)
□ epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit)
□ filgrastim (Neupogen)
QUICK LOOK AT THE CHAPTER AHEAD
The biologic response modifiers are a group of drugs that can either extend the immune system’s ability to rid the body of damaging attackers or help the immune system to function normally. This group is composed of the interferons, interleukins, hematopoietic agents, and colony-stimulating factors. They are mainly used in the treatment of cancer and in other autoimmune diseases. While these drugs play an important role in the battle against life-altering diseases, they have serious side effects which make it very difficult for clients to deal with.
Table 68-1 Biologic Response Modifiers | |||||||||||||||
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BIOLOGIC RESPONSE MODIFIERS CLIENT TEACHINGFor All Biologic Response Modifiers
Tell all health care providers you are taking one of these drugs.
Wash hands frequently.
Avoid crowds and those who are sick.
Follow-up blood tests and physician visits must be done.
Tell all health care providers you are taking one of these drugs.
Wash hands frequently.Interferons
Increase fluid intake.
Take drug at hour of sleep to decreases common side effects.
Avoid crowds and those who are sick.
Keep drug in refrigerator.
Vial must not be shaken or frozen.
Learn correct injection technique.
Use the same brand.
Do not get pregnant.
Take drug at hour of sleep to decreases common side effects.Interleukins
Do not get pregnant.
No over-the-counter drugs unless approved by physician.
No over-the-counter drugs unless approved by physician.Hematopoietic Agents
Do not breast-feed.
Headache is common.
Seizures may occur during first 3 months of therapy, so no activities that require concentration
Go to all check-ups.
Seizures may occur during first 3 months of therapy, so no activities that require concentrationColony-Stimulating Factors
Do not breast-feed.
Tell physician if you have bone pain, so you will be given pain medication.
Tell physician if you have bone pain, so you will be given pain medication.
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