Pegasys (Peginterferon Alfa-2a)

Prescription medicineOnly Available By Prescription

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We guarantee the lowest price on all of our prescription products. If you find your medications cheaper at any other recognized licensed mail order pharmacy, we will not only match their price, we will beat it by 25% of the difference. It is our 125% price match guarantee!

Example: If you find a product on Canada Drugs Direct for $50.00 and find the same product for $40.00 at another mail order pharmacy, we will provide you with a $12.50 discount, bringing your total to $37.50.

To get the discount please make sure to mention the price match to the customer service team when they call to collect payment for your order. Or call toll free at 1-888-904-8467 to place the order through the phone.

Terms & Conditions of Program

  • Guaranteed lowest price is only valid at the time of sale.
  • We will only match the current advertised price.
  • Products must be identical and in stock at the time of placing an order with a licensed mail order pharmacy. They must be an online Canadian pharmacy with an address in Canada.
  • Products must be authentic in brand and size (same manufacturer, same country of manufacture, same pack size, same strength and same quantity).
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  • Price match can only be issued over the phone with our customer service team. Please note at this time we cannot offer price matching for the products Ozempic or Saxenda.
What is a Generic Drug?

A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.

The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.

Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.

Description

Pegasys, or Peginterferon Alfa-2a, is a medication produced using recombinant DNA technology. It works by stimulating the body's immune system to fight off viral infections, and it belongs to a class of drugs known as interferons. Healthcare providers typically prescribe Pegasys for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C, a viral infection that affects the liver. Sometimes, it's also used to treat chronic hepatitis B, another serious liver infection.

Directions

Patients should administer Pegasys subcutaneously, meaning the injection goes just under the skin. Typically, adults and children aged five and older may receive a starting dose that varies depending on their medical condition, body weight, and any other medications they might be taking. It's important to follow the specific dosing schedule prescribed by a healthcare provider, which often includes weekly injections.

Ingredients

Peginterferon Alfa-2a is the key active ingredient in Pegasys.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:

  • Known allergies to Pegasys or any of its components
  • Autoimmune hepatitis or other conditions that the drug might worsen
  • Severe hepatic impairment or decompensated liver disease
  • Use in neonates and infants

Cautions

  • Consult a healthcare provider about any of the following before starting treatment with Pegasys medication:
    • Whether you have any allergies
    • Whether you’re pregnant or breastfeeding
    • If you have other medical conditions
    • If you take other medications
  • If you're using Pegasys and Ribavirin, it's crucial to avoid pregnancy due to risks to the baby. You'll need a pregnancy test before starting, use two effective birth control methods, and have monthly pregnancy tests.
  • Pegasys can affect how you feel and act, such as making you feel very sad or anxious. If you notice changes in your mood or thoughts of hurting yourself, it's important to tell a doctor right away.
  • Those with heart conditions need to be cautious, as Pegasys might worsen these issues. Keep an eye on any new or worsening symptoms and talk to your doctor about them.
  • Pegasys can lead to changes in your blood, which might make you more prone to infections or bleeding. Expect regular blood tests to monitor this.
  • The medication can sometimes trigger autoimmune problems or affect your thyroid, changing your energy levels or causing high blood sugar. Report any new symptoms to your healthcare provider.
  • Vision changes or other eye issues can occur with Pegasys. If you experience any changes in your sight, don't wait to get it checked out.
  • Although it's rare, there's a slight increase in the risk of stroke. Be aware of stroke signs like sudden weakness or difficulty speaking, and seek immediate medical help if they occur.
  • For those with liver disease, especially from hepatitis, Pegasys could make liver health worse. Liver function will be closely monitored.
  • Some people may experience problems with their breathing. If it becomes hard to breathe, see a doctor as soon as possible.
  • Your ability to fight off infections might be weaker with Pegasys. Watch out for signs of infection and report them.
  • If you have severe abdominal pain, it could be a sign of pancreatitis or colitis. These need immediate medical attention.
  • Watch out for any new or severe changes in your skin. Serious reactions need quick medical care.
  • For kids on Pegasys, there's a watchful eye on growth, as it can be affected by the treatment.
  • Combining Pegasys with telbivudine can cause nerve pain. Let your doctor know if you experience this.

Side Effects

Pegasys treatment often leads to flu-like symptoms, including fatigue, fever, chills, muscle and joint pain, and headaches. Pegasys side effects may be lessened by taking the dose in the evening and using specific over-the-counter medications as advised by a healthcare provider.

Pegasys may cause serious health issues, such as blood disorders leading to anemia, infections, and bleeding problems; thyroid irregularities affecting weight and temperature sensitivity; and blood sugar fluctuations that could trigger or worsen diabetes. Vision problems, potentially resulting in loss of sight, significant liver issues including failure, lung complications like pneumonia, intestinal and pancreatic inflammation, severe allergic reactions, impacts on children's growth, and nerve damage in those treated for hepatitis B are also risks. Undergo regular health checks and consult a healthcare provider immediately upon noticing any severe symptoms.

References:

  1. Pegasys (Peginterferon Alfa-2a) Product Monograph. Vienna, AUT: zr pharma& GmbH; 2021.
  2. Pegasys (Peginterferon Alfa-2a) Drug Label Information. Vienna, AUT: zr pharma& GmbH; 2024.



IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.

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