Pegasys

Maker:
Genentech

What it does:
Treats chronic hepatitis C or B, alone or in combination with other drugs

Traditional dosage:

180 micrograms, once weekly, by subcutaneous injection.

Drug interactions, precautions, & recommendations:
Do not take if you have autoimmune hepatitis or liver problems. Do not take with Copegus or Rebetol if you are pregnant or if you or your partner plan to become pregnant. Do not take with Videx. Use with caution if taking Tyzeka, Theo-24, Elixophyllin, Uniphyl, Theolair, Azasan, Imuran, warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven), phenytoin (Dilantin, Phenytek, Dilantin-125, Cerebyx), or methadone.

Side effects:
Most serious: evere eye, blood, liver, nerve, intestines, eye, thyroid, or lung problems; stroke, heart attack, pancreatitis, severe infections, suppression of bone marrow function, colitis, high blood sugar or diabetes, allergic reaction, growth inhibition in pediatric patients;  neuropsychiatric reactions including suicide, homicidal ideation, relapse of drug addiction, and drug overdose
Other: flu-like symptoms, tiredness, weakness, stomach problems, loss of appetite, skin reactions, tongue discoloration, hair thinning, insomnia