Taking IL-2 and managing its side effects

March 2007     View PDF     En español

When you’re prescribed IL-2 therapy, it’s important that your doctor or nurse teach you how to inject the drug and how to store, prepare and safely dispose of the syringes. Moreover, there are a number of tips for preventing and managing the side effects.

At a minimum, you should not begin IL-2 without having on hand plenty of liquids that contain electrolytes (Gatorade, chicken soup, etc.) as well as filled prescriptions for antihistamines and ibuprofen. (Note: Some antihistamines have serious interactions with commonly used anti-HIV drugs. Be sure to discuss the best choice with your doctor and/or pharmacist.) Finally, before starting therapy, talk to your doctor and pharmacist about other drugs that you’re taking, including non-prescription over-the-counter drugs. Some of these may cause adverse effects when taken with IL-2.