pegIFNalpha has less side effects compared to standard IFN alpha because of a more favorable kinetics. Side effects are really variable. Most HBV patients will manage side effects quite well, maybe apart from the first couple of weeks. Some will have significant side effects and will have to stop the drug within 4 weeks. Young patients tend to tolerate the drug better than older ones
Prof. Pietro Lampertico, MD, PhD
Full Professor of Gastroenterology
Head of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Division
Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico
University of Milan
Via Francesco Sforza 35
20122- Milan
Italy
Phone +390255035432
Fax +390250320410
Email pietro.lampertico@unimi.it