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Peginterferon-α-2a
Peginterferon-α-2a is a pegylated form of interferon-alpha that activates innate and adaptive immune responses to suppress viral replication and inhibit cell proliferation.
Peginterferon-α-2a is a pegylated form of interferon-alpha that activates innate and adaptive immune responses to suppress viral replication and inhibit cell proliferation. Used for Chronic hepatitis C virus infection, Chronic hepatitis B virus infection, Certain hematologic malignancies (e.g., chronic myeloid leukemia, lymphomas).
At a glance
| Generic name | Peginterferon-α-2a |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Pegasys® |
| Sponsor | Ministry of Health, Malaysia |
| Drug class | Interferon-alpha, pegylated |
| Target | Interferon-alpha receptor (IFNAR) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Immunology, Virology, Oncology |
| Phase | Phase 3 |
Mechanism of action
Peginterferon-α-2a binds to interferon-alpha receptors on cell surfaces, triggering JAK-STAT signaling pathways that induce antiviral and antiproliferative gene expression. The pegylation (attachment of polyethylene glycol) extends the drug's half-life, allowing for less frequent dosing. It is used primarily in chronic viral infections and certain malignancies where immune activation is therapeutically beneficial.
Approved indications
- Chronic hepatitis C virus infection
- Chronic hepatitis B virus infection
- Certain hematologic malignancies (e.g., chronic myeloid leukemia, lymphomas)
Common side effects
- Flu-like symptoms (fever, fatigue, myalgia)
- Headache
- Neutropenia
- Thrombocytopenia
- Depression and psychiatric effects
- Thyroid dysfunction
- Injection site reactions
Key clinical trials
- To Optimize the Therapeutic Pathway of Peginterferon Treatment in Patients With CHB Based on IFNA2p.Ala120Thr /ISGs. (NA)
- Malaysia Stop Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Trial (PHASE3)
- Short Duration Combination Therapy With Daclatasvir, Asunaprevir, BMS-791325 and Sofosbuvir in Subjects Infected With Chronic Hepatitis-C (FOURward Study) (PHASE2)
- Real-world Effectiveness and Safety of Treatment With DAAs in Patients With CHC(Chronic Hepatitis C)
- The Changes of Natural Killer Cells Frequency and Function During Antiviral Therapy (PHASE4)
- The Changes of CD4+T Cells Frequency and Function During Antiviral Therapy (PHASE4)
- The Changes of CD8+T Cells Frequency and Function During Antiviral Therapy (PHASE4)
- The Changes of Cytokines During Antiviral Therapy (NA)
Primary sources
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| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |