Adverse reactions in long-term interferon treatment

Adverse reactions in interferon treatment were studied in long-term treatment schedules. Thirteen patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma treated with 10(7) units interferon-2b s.c. daily for 6 months showed serious side effects. The general condition worsened in 10 patients. The average weight loss was 7 kg per patient. The remissions achieved (1 complete, 2 partial) were seen after 2-3 months of treatment. In 11 patients treated in an adjunctive setting (10(7) units interferon-2b s.c. 3 times weekly) side effects were less severe. Generally the treatment was tolerated well. In one patient the general condition worsened, weight loss was mild and restricted to the first treatment month.