Objective: To investigate interferon (IFN) alpha 2 b for treating patients with JAK2V617F positive polycythemia vera (PV) and essential thrombocytosis (ET). Methods: Interferon alpha 2 b was used to treat patients with JAK2V617F positive PV and ET. In control group, hydroxyurea was used. Endpoint of study was to compare rates of hematological and molecular remission. Results: Patients in the interferon alpha 2 b group achieved higher rates of hematologic and molecular remission than patients in the hydroxyurea group, with a lower incidence of thrombosis. Conclusion: Compared with hydroxyurea, interferon alpha 2 b could reduce JAK2V617F load for patients with PV and ET, and achieve higher molecular remission, improve treatment efficacy and reduce complications.