Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Plegridy (Peginterferon-beta-1a).
Blood counts: Plegridy (Peginterferon-beta-1a) can decrease the number of neutrophils (a type of white blood cell that helps fight infection) and platelets (which help your blood to clot). Your doctor will do blood tests to monitor this. If you notice any signs of infection (e.g., fever, chills, or sore throat) or unusual bleeding or bruising, contact your doctor immediately.
Depression and suicidal behaviour: If you have or have had depression or bipolar disorder, you may be at an increased risk of feeling agitated (restless, anxious, aggressive, emotional, and feeling not like yourself), or wanting to hurt yourself or others. If you develop severe depression or experience other mood or behaviour changes, stop using this medication and contact your doctor immediately. If you have thoughts or feelings about harming yourself, get immediate medical attention.
Fever and flu-like symptoms: Plegridy (Peginterferon-beta-1a) can cause fever and other flu-like symptoms such as chills and headache. Gradually increasing the dose of Plegridy (Peginterferon-beta-1a) when you start using it should also help reduce these symptoms. Your doctor may suggest that you take Acetaminophen if you develop these symptoms.
If you have a persistent fever while using Plegridy (Peginterferon-beta-1a), contact your doctor.
Heart problems: Plegridy (Peginterferon-beta-1a) may worsen symptoms of heart disease. If you have heart disease such as Angina, Congestive Heart Failure, or arrhythmia, discuss with your doctor how Plegridy (Peginterferon-beta-1a) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Plegridy (Peginterferon-beta-1a), and whether any special monitoring is needed. Contact your doctor as soon as possible if you develop symptoms of heart problems such as shortness of breath, chest pain, rapid heartbeat, or swollen ankles.
Liver function: Peginterferon beta-1a may cause decreased liver function and occasionally, liver failure. If you have liver problems, discuss with your doctor how Plegridy (Peginterferon-beta-1a) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed. Your doctor may recommend regular liver tests while you are using Plegridy (Peginterferon-beta-1a). If you have severe changes in liver function, your doctor may recommend that you take a lower dose of Plegridy (Peginterferon-beta-1a) or stop taking it altogether.
If you experience symptoms of liver problems such as fatigue, feeling unwell, loss of appetite, nausea, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, dark urine, pale stools, abdominal pain or swelling, and itchy skin, contact your doctor immediately.
Seizures: There have been occasional reports of seizures occurring with interferons. Seizures are more likely to occur when higher doses of Plegridy (Peginterferon-beta-1a) are taken. If you have a history of Epilepsy or medical conditions that increase the risk of seizures, discuss with your doctor how Plegridy (Peginterferon-beta-1a) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Plegridy (Peginterferon-beta-1a), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Thyroid problems: Some people taking Plegridy (Peginterferon-beta-1a) develop changes in the function of their thyroid. Symptoms of these changes include increased sweating, rapid heartbeat, weight loss without a change in your diet or amount of exercise you get, or feeling emotional or anxious. Contact your doctor if you experience these symptoms.
Pregnancy: Plegridy (Peginterferon-beta-1a) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Plegridy (Peginterferon-beta-1a), contact your doctor immediately. It is important to use effective birth control while taking Plegridy (Peginterferon-beta-1a).
Breast-feeding: It is not known if peginterferon beta-1a passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking this medication, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of using this medication have not been established for children.
