Peginterferon Alfa–2a (Systemic)

Brand Names : Pegasys

Side Effects of This Medicine

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

black, tarry, stools; chills ; cough; discouragement; feeling sad or empty; fever; irritability ; lack of appetite ; loss of interest or pleasure ; lower back or side pain; painful or difficult urination; pale skin; shortness of breath; sore throat; tiredness ; trouble concentrating ; trouble sleeping; ulcers, sores, or white spots in mouth; unusual bleeding or bruising; unusual tiredness or weakness

Less common

bone pain; chest pain or discomfort; confusion; constipation; depressed mood; difficult urination; dizziness; dry skin and hair; fainting; fast heartbeat; feeling cold ; hair loss; headache; heart murmur; hoarseness or husky voice ; lightheadedness; muscle cramps and stiffness; pale skin; rapid, shallow breathing; slowed heartbeat; sneezing; stomach pain; tightness in chest; troubled breathing with exertion; unusual bleeding or bruising; unusual tiredness or weakness; wheezing; weight gain

Other side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. However, check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome.

More Common

back pain; blistering, crusting, irritation, itching, or reddening of skin; cracked, dry, scaly skin; diarrhea; dry mouth; fear; feeling unusually cold, shivering; fever; hair loss or thinning; muscle or joint pain; nervousness; numbness; pain; rash; redness ; scarring ; soreness; stinging; stomach pain; swelling; tenderness ; tingling; ulceration; vomiting; warmth

Less common

acid or sour stomach; belching ; blurred vision; heartburn ; indigestion ; memory problems; stomach discomfort upset or pain

Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor.