interferon gamma-1b: clinical use

Prescribing considerations

• Use does not remove the need for appropriate antimicrobial prophylaxis or treatment in chronic granulomatous disease.
• Use caution with cardiac disease, seizure disorders, impaired central nervous system function, serious hepatic or severe renal impairment, and myelosuppression.
• Consider uncertain potential effects on fertility and limited paediatric experience.
• Check for latex allergy because the vial stopper contains natural rubber.

Contraindications and cautions

• Hypersensitivity to interferon gamma-1b, closely related interferons or any product excipient.

Monitoring

• Before treatment and periodically: full blood count with differential and platelets.
• Liver and renal biochemical tests.
• Urinalysis.
• Assess for infection, hepatic toxicity, cytopenias, neurological effects and injection reactions.

Clinical pharmacology

Recombinant human interferon gamma-1b is produced using an E. coli expression system. It is presumed to enhance macrophage cytotoxicity and antimicrobial respiratory-burst activity while increasing HLA-DR and Fc-receptor expression. Its exact therapeutic mechanism in chronic granulomatous disease remains uncertain; the liver and kidneys contribute to clearance.

Formulation and product differences

• The product is a clear, colourless solution for subcutaneous injection.
• It is preservative-free and supplied in single-use glass vials.
• The vial stopper contains a natural-rubber latex derivative.
• Do not mix with other medicines, shake vigorously or freeze.

Injection

Route: Parenteral

Strengths: 0.1 mg, 106 units