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Brand Names: Actimmune

Generic Name: interferon gamma-1b (Pronunciation: in ter FEER on GAM a)

• What is interferon gamma-1b (Actimmune)?
• What are the possible side effects of interferon gamma-1b (Actimmune)?
• What is the most important information I should know about interferon gamma-1b (Actimmune)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using interferon gamma-1b (Actimmune)?
• How should I use interferon gamma-1b (Actimmune)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Actimmune)?
• What happens if I overdose (Actimmune)?
• What should I avoid while using interferon gamma-1b (Actimmune)?
• What other drugs will affect interferon gamma-1b (Actimmune)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is interferon gamma-1b (Actimmune)?

Interferon gamma-1b is made from human proteins. Interferons help the body fight viral infections.

Interferon gamma-1b is a specific interferon used to prevent infections in people with a condition called chronic granulomatous disease. Interferon gamma-1b is also used to treat a congenital bone disorder called osteopetrosis.

Interferon gamma-1b may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of interferon gamma-1b (Actimmune)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using interferon gamma-1b and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;
• easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness;
• feeling light-headed, fainting;
• fast or uneven heart rate; or
• sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body.

Less serious side effects may include:

• problems with memory or concentration;
• weakness, tired feeling, lack of coordination;
• pain or redness where the injection was given;
• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
• muscle or joint pain; or
• headache.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about interferon gamma-1b (Actimmune)?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to interferon gamma-1b, or to drug products made from E. Coli bacteria.

Before using interferon gamma-1b, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have heart rhythm problems, congestive heart failure, history of heart disease or blood clots, or epilepsy or another seizure disorder.

Interferon gamma-1b is usually given three times weekly. Do not use the medication every day unless your doctor has told you to.

Store interferon gamma-1b in the refrigerator but do not allow it to freeze. Throw away any interferon gamma-1b that has been out of the refrigerator for more than 12 hours. Do not put it back into the refrigerator.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your blood may need to be tested on a regular basis. Your liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.