PEG-Intron is the brand name of peginterferon alfa-2b, a synthetic form of substances that normally occur in the body and fight infection, according to Drugs.com. PEG-Intron may be prescribed to treat individuals with liver damage. Physicians' Desktop Reference (PDR) reports that PEG-Intron can also be used to treat hepatitis C. As with any medication, PEG-Intron has the potential for side effects.
Mild Side Effects
The most common side effects PEG-Intron users experience are considered mild unless they are persistent or bothersome, according to Drugs.com. These effects may include aching in the sinuses, fullness or tension in the sinuses, flushing of the skin, hair loss, indigestion, pain in the bones or muscles, nose congestion and running, sneezing and/or sore throat. It is also common for users to experience discomfort at the site of injection. Drugs.com reports the discomfort to include bruising, irritation, itching, redness or bleeding.
Serious Side Effects
Drugs.com lists several possible serious side effects associated with the use of PEG-Intron. These include abdominal pain, stomach pain, anxiety, black or tarry stools, blood in the urine or stools, bloody diarrhea, chills, coughing, hoarseness, depression, fever, secondary infection, irritability, lower back or side pain, mood swings, nausea, painful urination, trouble urinating, tiny red spots on the skin, trouble sleeping, unusual bleeding or bruising, and vomiting. Drugs.com warns users to report any of these common serious side effects to a medical professional.
Rare Side Effects
Rare side effects include discomfort or stiffness in the joints, aggressive behavior, suicidal thoughts or attempts, backache, severe chest pain, cool or pale skin, reduced vision clarity, drug addiction or overdose, pain in the eyes, fast or irregular heartbeat, loss of appetite, muscle weakness, paralysis, restlessness, vertigo, sensitivity to heat, shortness of breath and thick scaly skin. Rare serious effects, according to Drugs.com, include changes in menstrual cycle, constipation, drowsiness, dry hair and skin, sensitivity to cold, unusual tiredness or weakness, and weight gain.
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