North York General Hospital – Using Interferon in SARS

 

Prepared by Dr. Mona Loutfy  - June 2, 2003

 

 

Experience on 8 west

·        We have given Interferon to 7 patients

• 1 patient was well and D/Ced because he was doing well and didn’t require it
• 5 patients were started on interferon with pulsed solumedrol 4 days ago with dramatic improvements – see CXRs
• 1 more patient started today
• Minimal side effects – likely steroids suppressing steroids; depression not a problem because of short course

 

 

Indication

·        Probable SARS

·        On prednisone

·        Worsening – earlier rather than later is better

·        On 8 West – w have mainly given it as we have given pulsed solumedrol but I think earlier would be better

 

 

STEPS to GIVE

·        Bring in patient information and special access consent to patients room

·        Review with patient – why giving it and review side effects

·        Have patient sign consent at leisure

·        Fill out pre-written order sheet

·        Tell nurse and ask her to call the lab for the pre-interferon tests

 

 

Dose

·        9 ug SC OD X 7  - 10 days

·        If side effects -> we can dose reduce to 6 ug

·        If worsening, can increase dose to 15 ug

 

 

Side effects to watch out for

·        Neutropenia (if develops -> dose reduce to 6 ug)

·        Chills

·        Flu-like symptoms

·         Depression from long-term use