What are Pegylated Alpha Interferons?
Pegylated Alpha Interferons are made by attaching a large water-soluble molecule called polyethylene glycol (PEG) to the Alpha Interferon molecule. Attachment of PEG increases the size of the Interferon so it takes longer for the body to get rid of if. Currently, there are two types of Pegylated Alpha Interferons available, PegInterferon Alpha-2a and PegInterferon Alpha-2b. Although both these agents are effective in the treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C, the major difference between the two is in dosing. The dose of Alpha-2a is the same for all patients, regardless of weight or size. The dosing of Alpha-2b is individualized based on the patient’s weight.
Alpha Interferons Already Exist in Your Body. Alpha interferons are proteins made naturally by your body to boost your immune system and defend against invaders. Pegylated alpha interferons are manufactured by attaching a large water-soluble molecule (called polyethylene glycol) to the alpha interferon molecule. The drug reduces the amount of virus in the body and helps the body’s immune system fight the virus. These new molecules stay in the body longer and have shown to be more effective in treating chronic hepatitis C than non-pegylated interferon.
