Prior to the introduction of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) in 2013—which include the drugs Sovaldi, Harvoni, Daklinza, and Viekira Pak, among others—the most effective way to treat hepatitis C was with a combination of peginterferon and ribavirin. The dual therapy is known to have a high level of treatment side effects, some of which can be profo...

Pegylated interferon is injected once weekly. The exact dose will vary based on a number of factors, including the genotype of your virus, the type of peginterferon you’ll be using, and the accompanying drug(s) it will be co-administered with. Your nurse will teach you how to correctly administer the injection, usually subcutaneously (beneath the s...

The side effects of peginterferon will vary from person to person, with some individuals managing will minimal ill events while others experience symptoms they consider intolerable. The most common side effects associated with pegylated interferon use are: 1. Flu-like symptoms (a headache, fever, chills, muscle aches) 2. Insomnia 3. Depression and ...