IFN
Medical abbreviation · Drug
| Stands for | Interferon |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
IFN stands for Interferon, a drug abbreviation.
Family of signaling proteins with antiviral and immune-modulating effects, used as drugs: interferon beta for multiple sclerosis, interferon alfa formerly for hepatitis B and C and some cancers, and interferon gamma for chronic granulomatous disease.
Example: Pegylated IFN plus ribavirin was standard for hepatitis C before DAAs.
Usage notes
Interferons were named in 1957 for their ability to "interfere" with viral replication. Flu-like symptoms, fatigue and depression are common side effects. Pegylation, which attaches polyethylene glycol, lengthens their effect so injections can be weekly instead of several times a week.
Related abbreviations
More drug abbreviations
- HC – Hydrocortisone
- HCl – Hydrochloride
- HCQ – Hydroxychloroquine
- HCT – Hydrocortisone
- HCTZ – Hydrochlorothiazide
- HQ – Hydroquinone
- INH – Isoniazid
- ISDN – Isosorbide dinitrate
- ISMN – Isosorbide mononitrate
- IVIG – Intravenous immunoglobulin
- IVMP – Intravenous methylprednisolone
- KCl – Potassium chloride
See all 170 drug abbreviations →
This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.