Interferon Alfacon-1injectionMEDICATION GUIDE

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible

information. If you have questions about this medicine talk to

your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

What is this medicine?INTERFERON ALFACON-1 (in ter FEER on AL fa kon-1) helps

your immune system work better. This medicine is used to

treat hepatitis C.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health

care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

How should I use this medicine?This medicine is for injection under the skin. It is usually given

by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

If you get this medicine at home, you will be taught how to

prepare and give this medicine. Use exactly as directed. Take

your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often

than directed.

It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a

special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you

do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or

healthcare provider to get one.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with

each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information

carefully each time.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in

children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this

medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at

once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine

with others.

What if I miss a dose?If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. Wait at least 48

hours before taking your next dose. Do not take double or extra

doses.

What should I tell my health careprovider before I take thismedicine?They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Alcoholism or other drug abuse or addiction

• Autoimmune disease like psoriasis, Raynaud's phenomenon,

rheumatoid arthritis, or systemic lupus erythematosus-blood

or bleeding disorders

• Depression or mental disorders

• Diabetes

• Eye disorders

• Heart disease

• Immune system problems

• Kidney disease

• Liver disease

• Lung disease

• Stomach problems

• Thyroid disease

• Transplant recipient

• An unusual or allergic reaction to interferons, E. Coli protein,

other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• Breast-feeding

What may interact with thismedicine?• Telbivudine

• Zidovudine (AZT)

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your

health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-

prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell

them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some

items may interact with your medicine.

What side effects may I noticefrom receiving this medicine?Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care

professional as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of

the face, lips, or tongue

• Breathing problems

• Changes in vision

• Chest pain or palpitations

• Confusion

• Dizziness

• Fast, irregular heartbeat

• Fever or chills

• Muscle aches

• Pain, tingling, numbness in the hands or feet

• Suicidal thoughts or other mood changes

• Trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

• Unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention

(report to your doctor or health care professional if they

continue or are bothersome):

• Arm, back, or leg pain

• Headache

• Irritation at site where injected

• Joint pain

• Loss of appetite

• Nervousness

• Nausea or stomach upset

• Stomach pain

• Trouble sleeping

• Vomiting

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your

doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report

side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What should I watch for whileusing this medicine?Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks

on your progress. You will need regular blood checks.

Do not change brands without consulting your doctor or health

care professional. Different brands of this medicine can act

differently in your body. Check with your pharmacist if your

refills do not look like your original product.

This medicine can cause flu-like symptoms especially during

the first few weeks of treatment. These symptoms may include

fever, chills, fatigue, muscle aches, nausea, and decreased

appetite. If you get a fever or sore throat after the first few

weeks of treatment, do not treat yourself. Call your doctor or

health care professional as soon as you can if you think you

have an infection.

Do not become pregnant while taking this medicine. Women

should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or

think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious

side effects to an unborn child. Talk to your health care

professional or pharmacist for more information.

This medicine can cause blood problems and may increase

your risk to bruise or bleed. Call your doctor or health care

professional if you notice any unusual bleeding. Be careful not

to cut, bruise, or injure yourself because you may get an

infection and bleed more than usual.

Be careful brushing and flossing your teeth or using a toothpick

while receiving this medicine because you may get an infection

or bleed more easily. If you have any dental work done, tell your

dentist you are receiving this medicine.

Where should I keep mymedicine?Keep out of the reach of children.

Store in a refrigerator between 2 and 8 degrees C (36 and 46

degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused vials or

syringes after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible

information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to

your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.