@birgitr No, I have not taken any of the interferons. In talking with other ET patients, it seems that ropeginterferon has fewer side effects than Pegasys. Older people (over age 60) often stopped Pegasys because it caused depression. Those currently taking Besremi (ropeginterferon), seem to be doing well with it. In some parts of Europe, the standard protocol was for those under age 40 to receive interferon, which does not cause birth defects, and for those between 40 and 60 to have a choice between interferon and hydroxyurea. Those over age 60 were usually steered toward hydroxyurea. But since Besremi became available, that may have changed. Is it more widely available in Germany?