Besremi (ropeginterferon alfa-2b-njft)
AOP Orphan Pharmaceuticals · Pegylated Interferon Alfa / JAK-STAT Pathway Modifier
What is Besremi? Besremi (ropeginterferon alfa-2b-njft) is a long-acting pegylated interferon alfa approved for adults with polycythemia vera (PV). It is administered every 2 weeks and can achieve molecular remission in some patients, including JAK2 allele burden reduction.
About Besremi
| Brand Name | Besremi |
| Generic / INN | ropeginterferon alfa-2b-njft |
| Drug Class | Pegylated Interferon Alfa / JAK-STAT Pathway Modifier |
| Manufacturer | AOP Orphan Pharmaceuticals |
| Administration | Subcutaneous (SC) injection |
| FDA Approval | 2021 |
FDA-Approved Uses
- Polycythemia vera (PV) — adults, without symptomatic splenomegaly
How Does Besremi Work?
Ropeginterferon alfa-2b is a mono-pegylated interferon that activates JAK-STAT signaling, suppressing JAK2V617F-mutated hematopoietic progenitor cell proliferation while sparing normal stem cells. Over time, this can reduce the JAK2V617F allele burden — a unique feature distinguishing it from hydroxyurea.
Dosage & Administration
Starting dose: 100 mcg SC every 2 weeks. Titrate based on response and tolerability (up to 500 mcg every 2 weeks). Given by SC injection in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Allow to reach room temperature before injection.
Dosing is individualized by the treating oncologist. Do not adjust without medical guidance. This page is educational only.
Warnings & Side Effects
- Neuropsychiatric disorders — depression, suicidal ideation
- Hepatotoxicity
- Cardiovascular events
- Thyroid disorders
- Embryo-fetal toxicity
Common Side Effects
- Influenza-like symptoms
- Fatigue
- Arthralgia
- Pruritus
- Elevated LFTs
- Depression
- Thyroid disorders
- Injection site reactions
Storage & Handling
Refrigerate at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze. Allow to reach room temperature 30 minutes before injection.
💰 Medication Cost & Insurance Coverage
Approximate Wholesale Acquisition Cost (WAC / List Price)
~$8,000–$12,000/month
SC every 2 weeks
Insurance & Prior Authorization
Besremi requires prior authorization from all major insurance plans. BiologicHealthPlus handles the full PA process — clinical documentation, peer-to-peer reviews, and appeals — at no cost to patients or providers.
Prior Authorization Guide Patient Assistance Insurance & Savings
Frequently Asked Questions — Besremi
Besremi is a long-acting pegylated interferon alfa approved for polycythemia vera. It can reduce JAK2 allele burden over time — a unique advantage over hydroxyurea.
Both reduce blood cell counts in PV, but Besremi (interferon) can reduce the JAK2 allele burden — potentially achieving molecular remission — while hydroxyurea does not. Besremi is preferred for younger patients or those wanting disease modification.
Besremi is covered by most commercial insurance and Medicare Part D with prior authorization for PV. AOP patient support programs are available.
Related Medications & Conditions
Related Medications
Hydroxyurea (Hydrea) · Jakafi (ruxolitinib) · Phlebotomy (standard PV management)
Related Conditions
Polycythemia vera (PV) · Myeloproliferative neoplasms · JAK2 V617F-mutated conditions