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Regimen Information

For INTRON-A, including Side Effects

INTRON-A

Drugs in this Regimen:

For the treatment of Melanoma

How INTRON-A chemotherapy is given and possible side effects.

INTRON-A for the treatment of Melanoma

Intron-A (interferon) is used in the treatment of melanoma.

MOST COMMON SIDE EFFECTS OF INTRON-A

  • Risk of Infection

  • Diarrhea

  • Nausea & Vomiting

  • Appetite Loss

For more information, see the 'Expert Resources' tab below.

Community Responses

Often, the most helpful information regarding treatment side effects comes not from clinical brochures, but rather from other patients like you. We've collected the most helpful community resources to help you prepare for the side effects and coping tips for your chemotherapy regimen.

What side effects did you experience while on this medication?

I'm Patrick Miller, and I survived Melanoma

Interferon…what a fun year! I did however learn a few things that I would do differently if i had to undergo another round (which, by the way, I would). Side effects were the usual with, thankfully, one exception. Flue like symptoms, loss of appetite and taste resulting in a 55 pound weight loss, some hair loss, dry mouth and a tough time concentrating. What I did not have to contend with was nausea. My doctor was very aggressive on that issue.
What would I do differently? I always scheduled chemo late in the day so I could go home and go to bed when the side effects hit-usually an hour after treatment-but next time I would force myself to eat and exercise even if only a little bit.
Today I am NED, run 4 miles a day and feel completely recovered so press on!

  • Thu Nov 8, 2012
I'm Laura, and I'm living with Melanoma

I did 1 month of Intraferon, My body was not tolerating it well at all. I did NOT drink enough water!!!!!! so the toxicity was to much and we had to stop. It was taxing my kidneys and liver. Mind you the water issue was because of nausea. so my advice…….drink plenty of fluids and LOTS of rest!!!

  • Thu Nov 8, 2012

This discussion needs your voice!

What were the specific side effects that you experienced while taking this medication? How did you manage them?

What coping tips would you give to new patients on this regimen?

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This discussion needs your voice!

What do you wish you had known before taking this medication? What information would you like to pass on to patients who are beginning this medication?

Treatment Overview

This chemotherapy regimen is commonly used to treat:

Other chemotherapy regimens for the treatment of Melanoma:

  • INTRON-A

See Expert Resources

The Navigating Care Library includes articles about cancer, chemotherapy regimens and drugs from the the National Cancer Institute and other experts.