​Pharmacology - Inteferon Alpha

​Pharmacology - Inteferon Alpha 
Activity of the Interferon-alpha 
A virus and virus-infected cells are both eliminated.

Method of Operation
It does this by stimulating the production of host enzymes, which then degrade viral mRNA (which in turn inhibits viral protein synthesis and stops replication) as well as host cell mRNA in the infected cell, which ultimately results in the cell's fatality.

Given intravenously, the half life is between two and four hours. The half life of peginterferon-alfa2a is significantly longer. 

To treat viral hepatitis B in clinical settings; to treat chronic viral hepatitis C when combined with ribavirin.

Allergies and Reactions 
Common symptoms include fever, headache, and myalgia. The cardiovascular system, the liver, and the bone marrow can all be affected by this condition.