Generic Name and Formulations:
Peginterferon alfa-2b 296mcg, 444mcg, 888mcg; per vial; pwd for SC inj after reconstitution.

Company:
Merck & Co., Inc
Indications for SYLATRON:
Adjuvant treatment of melanoma with microscopic or gross nodal involvement within 84 days of definitive surgical resection including complete lymphadenectomy.

Adult Dose for SYLATRON:
≥18yrs: Give by SC inj. Rotate inj sites. Premedicate with acetaminophen. 6mcg/kg/week for 8 doses, followed by 3mcg/kg/week for up to 5 years. Withhold dose if ANC <0.5x109/L, platelets <50x109/L, ECOG PS ≥2, or for non-hematologic toxicity ≥ Grade 3. Resume at reduced dose (see literature) when: ANC ≥0.5x109/L, platelets ≥50x109/L, ECOG PS 0–1, and non-hematologic toxicity has completely resolved or improved to Grade 1.

Children's Dose for SYLATRON:
<18yrs: not established.

Pharmacological Class:
Alpha interferon.

Contraindications:
Anaphylaxis to peginterferon alfa-2b or interferon alfa-2b. Autoimmune hepatitis. Hepatic decompensation (Child-Pugh score >6 [Class B and C]).

Warnings/Precautions:
Increased risk of depression and other neuropsychiatric disorders. Permanently discontinue for: persistent severe or worsening neuropsychiatric disorders (eg, depression, psychosis, encephalopathy); new onset ventricular arrhythmia or cardiovascular decompensation; new or worsening retinopathy; severe (Grade 3) hepatic injury or hepatic decompensation; hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, or diabetes mellitus that cannot be effectively managed; or if unable to tolerate a dose of 1mcg/kg/week. Monitor for signs/symptoms of depression/psychosis every 3 weeks during first 8 weeks, then every 6 months, continue for at least 6 months after last dose. Perform eye exam in patients with retinopathy and those with vision changes during therapy. Monitor hepatic function with serum bilirubin, ALT/AST, alkaline phosphate, and LDH at 2 and 8 weeks, and 2 and 3 months following initiation, then every 6 months. Obtain TSH levels within 4 weeks prior to initiation, at 3 and 6 months following initiation, then every 6 months. Moderate-to-severe renal impairment (monitor). Pregnancy (Cat.C). Nursing mothers: not recommended.

Interactions:
Therapeutic effect of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9 or CYP2D6 may be altered.

Adverse Reactions:
Fatigue, increased ALT/AST, pyrexia, headache, anorexia, myalgia, nausea, chills, inj site reactions; neuropsychiatric disorders.

Elimination:
Renal.

Generic Availability:
NO

How Supplied:
Single-use vial—1, 4 (w. diluent)