The dose and duration of treatment will vary according to the condition being treated. In the early stages of treatment many people experience 'flu like symptoms such as fever, chills, tiredness, nausea and muscle aches and pains. The severity and duration of these symptoms varies between individuals and are often helped by taking the injections along with two paracetamol tablets. Some people report minor problems whereas others are considerably affected. The symptoms usually subside after 1-2 weeks as the body becomes used to the interferon.
Most people are able to carry on normal activities during their treatment.
However, a minority of people who experience ongoing problems may not be able to tolerate a full course. Rarely other side effects may occur, such as hair loss, mood changes, bacterial infections and thyroid disease. Everyone on interferon treatment will be monitored regularly by their specialist and frequent blood tests are taken to check the reduction in the number of blood cells and response rate. Changes in the dose and duration of treatment may be required in the light of these tests. Not everyone with hepatitis B and C is suitable for treatment and not everyone responds to interferon.