Peginterferon

Patients who are suffering from liver damage as a result of chronic hepatitis C infection are often prescribed peginterferon. This medication is taken by itself or in conjunction with other medications. This medication decreases the amount of hepatitis C virus in the body. However, it cannot cure hepatitis C or stop the virus from spreading altogether.

Side Effects/Warnings

Patients who suffer from mental illness may have worse psychiatric symptoms after taking this medication. This medication can cause mood swings and can trigger intense desires to harm oneself or others. It can also increase the temptation to abuse illegal drugs if a patient had a drug addiction problem in the past.

This medication can intensify symptoms of autoimmune disorders, ischemic disorders and infectious disorders. Patients who have a history of any of these disorders are at risk of a recurrence of the disorder if they take this medication.