Interferon is a substance made by the body in response to a viral infection. Its role is to destroy viruses which are infecting the body. When interferon is given to treat hepatitis C, much higher doses are given than are made naturally by the body. The aim is to eliminate the virus from the body. Interferon is given by injection into the fat under the skin, usually three times a week for 6-12 months.
Most people learn to inject themselves.
Ask your doctor or nurse for more information. This is a drug that has been available for many years to treat a virus that causes chest infections in children. More recently it has been shown to be active against hepatitis C too. It is thought to act as an immune stimulator. Ribavirin is a capsule which is taken twice a day.