Interferon v Peg. Interferon

[StreetPastor]

Does anyone know if the new Peg. Interferon is more expensive than the standard Interferon?

[ETphonehome]

Peg IFN is one of the most expensive drugs available on the NHS, I am pretty certain it is more expensive than IFN.

[AliCaldwell]

Yes it is, my consultant had a real battle to get me onto peg. I got authorised in the end because I was on a high dose of standard inf (9mu daily) and I think peg worked out cost effective!

[Rachamim in reply to AliCaldwell]

I have been trying to get on to PEG IFN for a number of years because of the reduced frequency of injection but every time my consultant has asked for the OK, it has been refused by the 'committee' on cost grounds. It is already in use by patients with other conditions at the hospital with which I am linked.

John Churchill

[ETphonehome in reply to Rachamim]

Rachamim,

Hydroxyurea is still considered the gold star treatment for MPN's in the UK however docs are becoming more open to using Peg IFN as more studies support the efficacy of the drug.

Peg IFN is also relatively new and a whole lot more expensive so some haems are reluctant to prescribe, however if any of the following apply:

>40 years of age.

quality of life is adversely affected by your present treatment.

you want to start a family.......

.....I would say you have reasonable grounds to request Peg IFN.

[StreetPastor in reply to ETphonehome]

I am over 40 & my quality of life has been adversely affected. I wonder will I be told that I have to try standard interferon first and if this happens what case I could put forward besides having such a rough ride to date on Hydrox. & Anag. and wanting a break?.......................

[AliCaldwell]

Are you in the UK?

[StreetPastor in reply to AliCaldwell]

Yes I am

[StreetPastor]

Thanks, you are all fantastic....this will help me with my forth coming check up