Hepatitis C Medication: Interferon Versus Peginterferon (Pegylated Interferon)
Alpha interferon is a substance that is made naturally in your liver and in other parts of your body. It is a protein that helps your immune system work better to fight off infections, such as hepatitis.
The interferon drug that is often prescribed for
hepatitis C is a man-made version of alpha interferon. This means that it is made in a laboratory, but looks the same and does the same things as the natural protein.
There is an older and newer version of the man-made alpha interferon. The older version is taken by injecting it under the skin -- usually three times a week. The newer version, called "pegylated interferon" or "peginterferon," stays in your body longer than the older version, so you only have to inject it once a week. Studies have shown that this hepatitis C medication is also more effective than the older version in treating hepatitis C.
Hepatitis C Medication: Ribavirin
Ribavirin is a pill that you take in the morning and in the evening every day for as long as you are on combination therapy.
Ribavirin may actually help strengthen your immune system, which is your body's natural defense against infection. With a stronger immune system, your body can be more effective in getting rid of the
hepatitis C virus.
Since ribavirin does not treat hepatitis C by itself, it must be used with either alpha interferon or peginterferon. Together, these hepatitis C medications can slow down the rate at which the virus multiplies.
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