What Are Interferons?
A way to help your body heal
Interferons are proteins made by your body in response to infection or disease.
Your body has a complex system for detecting and responding to harm. It's called the "immune system." The source of harm can be a bacteria or virus, or it can be a type of cancer or other disease.
Interferons are special proteins in your immune system. They work by "interfering" with the foreign invaders (bacteria or viruses) that may cause infection. Interferons can also prevent the growth and spread of diseased cells, including some types of cancer cells.
Scientists have studied interferons and how they work. They've been able to create man-made interferons to boost the body's supply and help overcome disease. One type of interferon that has been used successfully is called INTRON® A (Interferon alfa-2b, recombinant) for Injection.
Since interferons are proteins, you cannot swallow them in a pill or liquid. Your stomach would digest them like the proteins in food and they could not work. Man-made interferons like INTRON® A have to be taken by infusion (IV) or injection, bypassing the stomach. Often, you can learn to do this yourself at home during the maintenance phase of treatment.
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- Cancer
- A general term for more than 100 different diseases that involve the uncontrolled increase of abnormal new cells. These cells form tumors that can destroy surrounding tissue and spread throughout the body.
- Cell
- The individual unit that makes up the tissues of the body. All living things are made up of one or more cells.
- Interferons
- Proteins produced naturally by white blood cells that stimulate the growth of certain disease-fighting blood cells in the immune system. Manufactured forms of interferons are used in cancer immunotherapy to improve the body's natural response to disease.
- Immune system
- The complex group of organs and cells that defends the body against infections and other diseases.
- Infusion
- A method of putting fluids, including drugs, into the bloodstream. Also called intravenous (IV) infusion.
- Injection
- Use of a syringe and needle to push fluids or drugs into the body; often called a "shot."
- IV
- Into a vein.
- Maintenance therapy
- Treatment that is given to help a primary (original) treatment keep working. Maintenance therapy is often given to help keep cancer in remission.
- Protein
- A molecule made up of amino acids that are needed for the body to function properly. Proteins are the basis of body structures such as skin and hair and of substances such as enzymes, cytokines, and antibodies.
Treatment Basics
Learn about the INTRON® A routine. Find ideas for planning ahead, talking to family and coworkers, or setting up your support team.
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