Uses of interferon

Interferon-α is used in chronic HBV as an individual agent or in combination with other drugs. When used in combinations with ribavirin, the progression of acute HCV infection to chronic HCV is reduced. Pegylated IFN-α together with ribavirin is superior to standard forms of IFN-α in chronic HCV. Other uses of IFN-α include treatment of Kaposi’s sarcoma, papillomatosis, and topically for genital warts. is a family of naturally occurring, inducible glycoproteins that interfere with the ability of viruses to infect cells. Although interferon inhibits the growth of many viruses in vitro, its activity in vivo against viruses has been disappointing. The interferons are synthesized by recombinant DNA technology. At least three types of interferons exist, α, β, and γ interferon-α-2b, has been approved for treatment of hepatitis B and C In so-called “pegylated” formulations, bis-monomethoxy polyethylene glycol has been covalently attached to either interferon-α-2a or -α-2b to increase the size of the molecule. The larger molecular size delays absorption from the injection site, lengthens the duration of action of the drug, and also decreases its clearance. it may be administered intralesionally, subcutaneously, or intravenously. Cellular uptake and metabolism by the liver and kidney account for the disappearance of interferon from the plasma. Negligible renal elimination occurs.