The interferon molecule does not kill viruses directly. Instead, it makes healthy cells less susceptible to the effects of the virus and prevents the virus from infecting healthy cells. Alpha interferon is a type of biologic therapy (sometimes called biotherapy). Biologic therapy involves administering natural substances produced in the body (by humans and other mammals) to treat disease. Although some alpha interferons are also used for the treatment of some cancers, they are not typically considered chemotherapy since chemotherapy involves administration of chemicals to treat cancer.

Alpha interferons are either used alone (referred to as monotherapy) or in combination with an antiviral agent called ribavirin (referred to as combination therapy) for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C. Combination therapy has been found to be significantly more effective in reducing the hepatitis C viral load to undetectable levels than alpha interferon monotherapy. Because of this, combination therapy with an alpha interferon and the antiviral drug ribavirin has become the standard of care for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C.

Alpha interferon-based therapy is not right for all patients with chronic hepatitis C. This treatment is associated with serious side effects including problems with pregnancy, mental health problems and suicide, heart, blood and/or body organ problems. Patients must discuss the possible benefits and side effects of treatment with their physician.

Talk to your doctor about treatments for chronic hepatitis C.

Back to Approved Treatments for Hepatitis C.
Go to About Pegylated Alpha Interferons
Go to About Ribavirin