Interferon Gamma-1b
(in ter feer’ on)
Actimmune
PREGNANCY CATEGORY C
Drug Classes
Immunomodulator
Interferon
Therapeutic Actions
Interferons are produced by human leukocytes in response to viral infections and other stimuli; interferon gamma-1b block has potent phagocyte-activating effects; acts as an interleukin; produced by Escherichia coli bacteria.
Indications
For reducing the frequency and severity of serious infections associated with chronic granulomatous disease
For delaying time to disease progression in patients with severe, malignant osteopetrosis
Orphan drug use: Renal cell carcinoma
Contraindications and Cautions
Contraindicated with allergy to interferon gamma, E. coli, or product components; lactation.
Use cautiously with seizure disorders, compromised CNS function, cardiac disease, myelosuppression, pregnancy.
Available Forms
Injection—100 mcg/0.5 mL (2 million international units)
Dosages
Adults
50 mcg/m2 (1 million international units/m2) subcutaneously three times/wk in patients who
have a body surface area greater than 0.5 m2; 1.5 mcg/kg per dose in patients who have a body surface area less than or equal to 0.5 m2 subcutaneously three times/wk. Reduce dose by 50% or hold therapy for severe reactions.
have a body surface area greater than 0.5 m2; 1.5 mcg/kg per dose in patients who have a body surface area less than or equal to 0.5 m2 subcutaneously three times/wk. Reduce dose by 50% or hold therapy for severe reactions.