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Interferons are currently used clinically to treat viral infections such as hepatitis C, cancers including non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis. This activity outlines the different types of interferons, namely interferon alpha, beta, and gamma. It discusses the pharmacological properties of different interferons, their medical uses, methods of administration, potential adverse effects, and other properties. It also highlights the important role that providers play in terms of correctly administering and dosing interferon medication, regularly monitoring patients for adverse effects, and counseling patients on the importance of medication adherence. Objectives: Describe the different forms of interferons and their medical indications. Review the potential adverse effects of interferons. Summarize the methods of administration of interferon therapy and the necessary monitoring of patients on this treatment. Explain the importance of collaboration amongst the interprofessional team to enhance care delivery by ensuring that patients receive education regarding the importance of medication adherence and undergo routine monitoring while taking interferon. Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.

Interferon-alpha Depression, delirium, and cognitive impairments have occurred with interferon-alpha therapy. Patients taking interferon-alpha are at risk for decreased blood counts, cardiotoxicity, pulmonary toxicity, hepatotoxicity, endocrine dysfunction (most commonly manifesting as diabetes mellitus and thyroid dysfunction), renal toxicity manifesting as proteinuria, and gastrointestinal toxicity (which leads to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and altered taste). Patients taking interferon-alpha are also at risk for developing autoimmune disorders and neurological impairments, such as seizures.[14] Interferon-beta Interferon-beta increases the risk of bone marrow suppression, pancreatitis, acute liver failure, and injection site reactions, including infection and necrosis.[3] Interferon-gamma Interferon-gamma increases the risk of gastrointestinal toxicity, induction of autoimmunity, encephalopathy, acute renal failure, and graft versus host disease following bone marrow transplantation.[17]

Interferon therapy has been shown to have therapeutic value for various diseases, including autoimmune diseases, viral diseases, and various forms of cancer. Interferons have also demonstrated significant immunomodulatory effects, making them beneficial for treating immune-related conditions such as multiple sclerosis and chronic granulomatous disease. However, given the potential for hepatotoxicity, renal toxicity, myelosuppression, autoimmune reactions, and other adverse outcomes, it is imperative for health care professionals to routinely monitor their patients through blood work while administering this medication. It is also essential that all interprofessional healthcare team members collaborate to determine the correct dosage and form of interferon therapy, as well as any adjuvant therapies, given there is significant variability in adverse effects. Lastly, medication adherence can be an issue with interferon treatment.[18] Healthcare teams can address this issue by working as a cohesive unit to educate patients about the importance of medication adherence and providing regular reminders to patients.