Interferon vs pegInterferon

[PT99]

Hi all

Can I please ask if anyone has moved away from normal to pegInterferon as a result of side effects and in particular, after feeling depressed?

If so, did it help?

Thanks

Pete

[Paul123456]

And if I can please ride on the back of Pete’s post, how long did it take for Peg to affect blood counts? And did you notice an increase or decrease in our usual symptoms (pruritus, cramps, fatigue etc)?

Thanks Paul

[Lab-Rat in reply to Paul123456]

Paul: Within 5 weeks after starting Peg at 90 mcg per week my platelet counts dropped from 1.3m to 500, Hb, RCC, WBC and neutrophils all dropped to within normal range. So in my case the effect was quite rapid. Peg did improve the usual symptoms and I felt great. However, after about 9 months of Peg (dose now 90 mcg every 3 weeks, counts stable) I now feel worse compared to before starting Peg. I have bone pain, cramps all the time, increased fatigue and low mood. I am considering discussing with my oncologist as I suspect that potential side effects of Peg are maybe catching up with me. I take the usual supplements such as magnesium, folic acid, etc. I live in South Africa, lots of sun shine, so symptoms not due to any deficiency.

Pete: I do hope that Peg will improve your mood compared to regular Interferon. However, Peg can also cause depression. Discuss with your dr.

[Susana7 in reply to Lab-Rat]

Hi Yvette, I have been on Pegasys for 2.5 years with excellent results - normal bloods, minimal side effects. I am currently on a maintenance dose of 45mcg fortnightly. But I have also noticed increased joint pain, particularly in the legs, and worse when waking up, or after sitting down for a while. I was hoping it was due to lack of exercise, rather than Pegasys, but will mention it to my haemo next time. Will be interested to know how you get on. Susana x

[Lab-Rat in reply to Susana7]

Hi Susana, thanks for your reply. Interested in your haem’s opinion on your increased joint pain. Take care.

[Susana7]

Hi Pete, I have always been on Pegasys but other people on the Facebook Interferon support group have made the move from standard to pegylated interferon and found it much more tolerable. Depression is still a possible side effect and you may need to take anti depressants if you are affected. Good luck! Susana x

[PT99 in reply to Susana7]

Hi Susana

Thanks for your reply. It’s still early days so I think I’ll stick with it for the time especially being if depression is still a side effect of pegasys. Sometimes it’s hard to know if it’s the drug causing it or just dealing with the condition itself.

Thanks again

Pete