Interferon alfa-n3

Type I Interferon (natural Human Leukocyte Derived)Rx: PrescriptionCompound: Approved

Also known as: alfa-n3, Alferon N, human leukocyte interferon alpha, n-alpha interferon

Educational Only — Not medical advice. Consult a qualified clinician before using any peptide.

Summary

Interferon alfa-n3 is a natural, human leukocyte-derived mixture of alpha interferons approved for intralesional treatment of refractory or recurring condylomata acuminata (genital warts) caused by HPV in adults. It is a purified blend of natural alfa interferons rather than a recombinant single subtype, marketed as Alferon N Injection.

Mechanism of Action

Binds to type I interferon receptors (IFNAR1/IFNAR2) on cell surfaces, activating the JAK-STAT signaling pathway (JAK1 and TYK2), which induces transcription of interferon-stimulated genes. This leads to antiviral, antiproliferative, and immunomodulatory effects. In condylomata acuminata, it exerts direct antiviral activity against human papillomavirus (HPV) and enhances immune-mediated clearance.

Routes of Administration

Intralesional

Goals & Uses

  • ImmunomodulationImmunologyModerate
  • Treatment of condylomata acuminata (genital warts)Antiviral / DermatologyHigh
  • Antiviral activity against HPVAntiviralHigh

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to mouse immunoglobulinAllergy / ImmunologyHigh
  • Autoimmune diseaseImmuneModerateMay worsen or interact with immune-mediated disease
  • Severe psychiatric disorders (pre-existing)PsychiatricHigh
  • Hypersensitivity to human interferon alfa or any product componentAllergy / ImmunologyHigh
  • Hypersensitivity to egg protein or neomycinAllergyHigh

Adverse Effects

  • Flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, myalgia, headache)SystemicCommon
  • Fatigue / malaiseSystemicCommon
  • Injection site reactions (pain, burning)LocalCommon
  • Depression / neuropsychiatric effectsPsychiatric / NeurologicalUncommon
  • Elevated liver enzymesHepaticUncommonIncrease in AST/ALT or other hepatic markers
  • Leukopenia / neutropeniaHematologicUncommon

Drug Interactions

  • Myelosuppressive agentsModerate
  • CNS depressants / psychotropic agentsModerate
  • TheophyllineModerate

Population Constraints

  • PregnancyReproductive SafetyRelative
  • Pediatric patients (<18 years)AgeAbsolute
  • Severe hepatic or renal impairmentOrgan ImpairmentRelative
  • Immunocompromised patientsImmunologicRelative

Regulatory Status

  • European UnionUnknownNot widely approved as a distinct product in EU; other interferon alfa products are used
  • United StatesApprovedApproved: Refractory or recurring external condylomata acuminata (genital warts) in adults ≥18 yearsFDA-approved since 1989; marketed as Alferon N Injection by Hemispherx Biopharma; availability has been sporadic
  • United KingdomUnknownNo specific MHRA approval identified for interferon alfa-n3 as a distinct product

FDA-approved in 1989 for intralesional treatment of refractory or recurring external condylomata acuminata in patients 18 years of age or older. Manufactured by Interferon Sciences / Hemispherx Biopharma. Supply and availability have been intermittent.

Evidence & Sources

No sources recorded yet.

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