Preferon 80 MCG Injection 0.7 ML

Preferon 80 MCG Injection 0.7 ML is used for the following:

• Treatment of chronic hepatitis C infection in adults

• Prevention of complications such as cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer

• Reduction of hepatitis C viral load

• Immune system modulation against hepatitis C virus

• Suitable for patients with compensated liver disease, especially those untreated with interferon

Follow these instructions when administering Preferon 80 MCG Injection 0.7 ML:

• This medicine must be administered only by a qualified doctor or healthcare provider.

• The injection is given under the skin (subcutaneous).

• Common injection sites include the abdomen or thigh area.

• Ensure the injection site is cleaned before administration.

• Do not shake the vial vigorously.

• Use each vial only once and discard any unused portion.

• Regular blood tests will be needed to monitor your response.

• Never attempt to self-administer this medicine.

Preferon 80 MCG Injection 0.7 ML is administered via a subcutaneous route.

Preferon 80 MCG Injection 0.7 ML contains pegylated interferon alpha 2B (0.08 mg), which works on the body as follows:

• Immune system modulation: Pegylated interferon alpha 2B activates multiple components of your immune system, particularly natural killer cells and T-lymphocytes, which are essential for attacking virus-infected cells.

• Antiviral protein production: The medicine stimulates the production of various antiviral proteins within your cells, creating an environment that suppresses viral multiplication.

• Viral replication inhibition: It acts on different molecular pathways to prevent the hepatitis C virus from multiplying within your liver cells, thereby reducing the amount of virus in your body.

• Extended duration of action: The pegylation process (attachment of polyethylene glycol molecules to the interferon protein) significantly enhances the medicine's stability and extends how long it remains active in your body.

• Store Preferon 80 MCG Injection 0.7 ML at a temperature between 2°C and 8°C.

• Keep the injection in its original packaging and protect it from light.

• Never freeze the medication as this damages the protein structure.

• Store well out of reach of children and pets.

• Check the expiry date before use and discard if it has expired.

• Maintain a liver-friendly diet with plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while avoiding alcohol altogether during your hepatitis C treatment, as alcohol can worsen liver damage and reduce the effectiveness of pegylated interferon therapy.

• Stay well-hydrated by drinking 8-10 glasses of water daily to help your liver function optimally and minimise side effects such as fatigue and headaches.