Have you ever wondered how our bodies fight off an enemy like a virus when it enters our bodies? Our bodies have an amazing defense system. One of the most important 'signaling agents' in that system is called interferon. These are actually proteins that our bodies produce themselves. Also, artificially produced interferon is given as a drug as a treatment for some medical conditions. Let's talk about this in a simple way today.
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Simply put, what is interferon?
Imagine that our body is a big city. This city is protected by an army called the immune system. Now an enemy, such as a virus or a cancer cell, enters this city. At that moment, the cells (for example, white blood cells) that are present in the area where this enemy is located, emit a warning signal. The protein that gives that signal is called interferon.
This name is quite interesting. These "interfere" with germs like viruses from multiplying inside the body, that is, from becoming infectious. That's why they are called 'interferons'.
So, while these are naturally produced in our bodies, they are also made artificially by scientists in laboratories and used as treatments for various diseases. Interferon was first created in this way in 1986 to treat certain types of cancer.
How does interferon work?
Interferons are like the first line of defense in our body's defense system. When a cell is infected with a virus, that cell produces interferons and sends a warning to the healthy cells around it. As if to say, "Here comes an enemy, activate your defenses too!"
When this signal is received, other cells also prepare to fight the virus. Interferon also calls on other fighters in our immune system (such as another type of protein called cytokines) to join the fight.
This is the same thing that happens with artificially administered interferon.
- It tells the immune system to "destroy these cells."
- It stops cancer cells and viruses from dividing and spreading.
- Helps healthy cells fight infections.
There are three main types of interferons.
- Interferon-alpha
- Interferon-beta
- Interferon-gamma
What diseases are treated with interferon as a medicine?
Different types of interferons are used to treat different conditions. See the table below for an easy-to-understand explanation.
| Type of interferon | Conditions being treated |
|---|---|
| Interferon-alpha |
|
| Interferon-beta | For various types of the autoimmune disease called Multiple Sclerosis (MS). This helps reduce inflammation in the nerves in the brain and spinal cord. |
| Interferon-gamma |
|
How is this treatment given?
Your doctor will usually give you this medicine as an injection under the skin or into a muscle . Sometimes it may also be given as an infusion into a vein in your arm. This treatment is usually given in a hospital or clinic. But in some cases, your doctor or nurse will teach you how to give yourself the injection at home.
The type of medication given, the dosage, and how long it is given for will depend on your medical condition.
What are the side effects and risks of interferon treatment?
Like any powerful medication, interferon therapy can have side effects and complications. But remember, your doctor is recommending this treatment for you because the benefits far outweigh the potential risks.
Don't be afraid to openly discuss any of these side effects with your doctor so he can take the necessary steps.
| Common side effects and potentially serious complications | |
|---|---|
| Common side effects that many people experience | |
| Flu-like symptoms | Symptoms such as fever, chills, body aches, headache, and nausea may occur a few hours after taking the medicine. These usually subside within 24 hours. |
| Other side effects | Skin rashes, extreme fatigue, hair loss (alopecia), loss of appetite, and erectile dysfunction in men can occur. |
| Potentially serious complications that require special attention | |
| Heart problems | Some people may experience low blood pressure, irregular or rapid heartbeat. Your doctor will be especially concerned if you have a heart condition. |
| Mental health problems | Some people may experience depression or negative thoughts about life. If you already have a mental health problem, your doctor will monitor you closely during this treatment. |
| Eye problems | If you have conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, this medicine may worsen them. Therefore, your doctor will recommend that you have your eyes checked before and during treatment. |
| Thyroid problems | Some people may experience conditions such as an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) or an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism). |
| Lung problems | If you have lung diseases such as bronchitis or pneumonia, this medication may worsen them. |
💡 Take-Home Message
- Interferon is a natural defense mechanism in our body that fights germs and cancer cells.
- Interferon, produced in laboratories, is a powerful treatment for serious diseases such as hepatitis, multiple sclerosis (MS), and some cancers.
- This treatment can cause side effects, such as fever. There is also a small risk of serious complications. It is important to be aware of this.
- Feel free to talk to your doctor about any discomfort or side effects you may experience.
- Never change the dosage or stop taking your medication without medical advice. Your doctor has chosen this treatment for your own well-being.
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