When treating herpes, topical antiviral agents are used. Gels and ointments reduce the activity of the virus, relieving unpleasant symptoms and preventing the spread of infection. Patients often have the question of which is better - Infagel or Acyclovir. Studying the characteristics of the drugs helps you get the answer.
Infagel or Acyclovir reduce the activity of the virus, relieving unpleasant symptoms and preventing the spread of infection.
A word for pediatricians
Why is the medicine "Infagel" so often prescribed to children? Reviews from doctors indicate that the drug has a fairly simple method of use. However, this does not reduce its effectiveness. The medication is also used for treatment and prevention purposes. Pediatricians say that Infagel has only positive reviews. This is an affordable and quite effective drug.
Doctors say that before using this composition, like any other medicine, you should consult a doctor. Otherwise, you may encounter unexpected reactions from the child’s body. Let's find out how to properly give Infagel to children. Reviews about the drug will be presented to your attention below.
Ointment analogues
Therapeutic drugs like Infagel include a whole group of drugs. All of them have antiviral and immunomodulating effects. The most popular analogues in the treatment of herpes are:
- Ointments for local external use - Diaferon, Alfarekin, Interferon alpha-2 Interal.
- Nasal spray - Laferon.
- Reaferon-ES-Lipint in the form of a suspension, which is taken orally.
- Solution for subcutaneous injection Roferon-A.
Analogues, like the original, must be prescribed by a doctor. Their cost does not differ significantly from Infagel, a domestic certified manufacturer.
Indications for use in children of different ages
The medicine "Infagel" (ointment) is prescribed for the treatment of pathological conditions or for prevention purposes. Among children, the medication is widely used to prevent diseases that are transmitted by air or droplets. The drug is also often recommended for adaptation to a preschool educational institution.
In children, the medicine can be used for facial herpes or herpes zoster. It is often recommended in complex therapy for the treatment of damaged skin and mucous membranes.
What else does the drug help with?
Ointment with interferon is recommended for the prevention of other viral infections: acute respiratory infections, influenza, sexually transmitted infections (during pregnancy or after accidental sexual intercourse without using a condom), conjunctivitis in children.
In addition, Infagel is prescribed for intrauterine infectious lesions in newborns (herpetic disease, cytomegalovirus, chlamydia, candidiasis).
The ointment copes well with the papilloma virus, ureaplasma, mycoplasma, gardnerella.
In the treatment of chickenpox, the gel is indicated as an anti-inflammatory agent that eliminates itching and swelling and has a cosmetic effect.
Infagel effectively copes with the treatment of chronic rhinitis, preventing the occurrence of sinusitis and sinusitis. The ointment does not dry out the mucous tissue of the nasal passages, so it can be used even by children (of all age groups).
Contraindications to the use of the drug "Infagel" and restrictions
The instructions say that you should not use the medicine “Infagel” during pregnancy and subsequent lactation. However, sometimes the medication is prescribed by a doctor. In this case, the risk of adverse reactions is always specified.
The drug should not be used if a child or adult patient is likely to have an allergic reaction to any of the constituent substances. The instructions also limit the use to those people who suffer from hypersensitivity to one of the components.
Instructions for use
For adults
Infagel is recommended to be used immediately after the first symptoms of a viral disease. For therapeutic purposes, skin rashes are lubricated with gentle circular movements. In this case, the ointment is rubbed in in such a way as not to damage the integrity of the bubbles. The composition is applied up to three times a day for 2 weeks. After the source of infection has been treated with ointment, it is necessary to leave it open for 15-20 minutes so that the ointment forms a special film on the surface of the skin.
- To cure the flu and acute respiratory infections, the nasal passages are lubricated with ointment. You can also do this procedure 2-3 times a day for 7-10 days. For preventive purposes, such a procedure should be carried out before going outside, but no more than 2 times a day.
- To treat herpes, the affected area is treated with ointment after the first rash. The gel is applied in a small amount to the mucous membrane or skin and left for 15 minutes to dry. The procedure is repeated 2 times a day until the infection completely disappears.
Children and newborns
Infagel can be used as treatment and prevention in children from birth, including premature infants.
To eliminate influenza and viral infections, the drug is applied in a small amount into the nasal passages. Cough syrups can be used in combination. The nose is lubricated no more than 2 times a day for 5-7 days. For preventive purposes, the ointment is applied to the nasal passages 1-2 times a day for no more than a month.
During pregnancy and lactation
- During pregnancy and the lactation period, women can use Infagel with standard restrictions. Thanks to its external use, the constituent components of the drug do not have a negative effect on the body.
- It is not recommended to lubricate the oral cavity in the first trimester of pregnancy, since interferons penetrating with saliva can contribute to abortion.
- During lactation, it is allowed to use this drug for both treatment and prevention. However, you should refrain from treating areas of the skin where the newborn can lick off the drug.
For medicinal purposes
The medicine “Infagel” for herpes is prescribed to both adults and children. This disease can affect a person at almost any age. In this case, children often become infected while passing through the mother's birth canal. To cure herpetic rashes, it is necessary to apply the drug in a thin layer to the affected areas. After this, wait until the composition dries completely. This will take from 5 to 15 minutes. The drug "Infagel" for herpes is used until complete recovery and disappearance of the ulcers.
If the skin and mucous membranes are damaged, the medication is used for five days. Only a specialist can extend the course of treatment. The medicine must be applied regularly, with a break of 12 hours. When treating mucous areas, it is necessary to first clean and dry the surface. Be careful not to get the medicine in your child's eyes.
Properties and quality composition of the ointment
Infagel is based on the action of an active protein identical to human leukocyte interferon, which penetrates the cells of the inflamed area of the body and has the necessary therapeutic effect. Interferon penetrates well into the bloodstream and skin cells, accumulating in tissues after 4 hours of use.
The drug was developed to actively combat the herpes virus and prevent recurrence of the disease. The gel is used externally, applied to the area affected by the virus. It treats all stages of herpetic lesions at any location.
Infagel is released in tubes of 2; 3; 5 and 10 g. There is a dosage form in bottles, but it is not as convenient as in tubes.
Infagel in the photo in different release forms:
The chemical composition is represented by 10,000 IU of human recombinant interferon alpha-2b in 1 gram of ointment. As an immunomodulator, interferon, which is the composition and basis of the ointment, activates cells that protect humans from pathogenic microorganisms.
The medicine has antiviral, antitumor and immunity-boosting properties: it copes well with inflammation, swelling and itching at the site of the lesion.
The price of Infagel ointment ranges from 80 to 150 rubles. You can buy Infagel without a prescription, over the counter.
Preventive actions
The medicine can be used for prophylactic purposes. In this case, the composition is applied to the inner surface of the nasal passages using a finger or a cotton swab. The procedure should be carried out after cleansing the nose, before going outside.
If your baby is going to have contact with an infected person, use the drug in the same way 30 minutes before contact. Remember that such prevention does not have to continue continuously. After seven days of use, stop using the medicine for one week. After this, you can repeat the scheme.
Features of treatment and prevention
For more effective treatment, Infagel should be applied at the first manifestations of the disease. After three days of use, the activity of the drug will decrease.
Prescribed for:
- Acute forms and relapse of herpes types 1 and 2. Apply a thin layer of gel directly to the rash areas twice a day for 4-5 days. It is advisable to do this with a cotton swab or spatula to avoid spreading the infection to other areas of the body.
- Herpetic stomatitis, gingivitis.
- For cytomegalovirus, sexually transmitted infections (trichomoniasis, mycoplasmosis, chlamydia) as an adjuvant.
- During an epidemic of influenza, ARVI for prevention. Apply 2 rubles to the nasal mucosa. per day with an interval of 12 hours (morning and evening).
The drug "Infagel": reviews, price
What do consumers think about this medication? Patients talk about the availability of this remedy. The average cost of a package containing 3 grams of the drug is no more than 100 rubles. In this case, the consumer can purchase a larger or smaller volume of Infagel.
Despite the low cost, the medicine is very effective. Reviews testify to this. Let's consider the main opinions that people who have used the medicine "Infagel" have formed.
Reviews from doctors and patients
Natalya, 35 years old, Rostov-on-Don: “Every autumn, rashes appear on the lip, which I associate with a decrease in immunity. I always used Acyclovir until I learned about Infagel from a pharmacist. Unlike traditional herpes treatment, the gel dries out the ulcer. On the 3rd day of treatment, a dense crust forms at the wound site. After application, a slight burning sensation is felt, which goes away after a few minutes. Infagel should be used when the first signs of herpes appear. It needs to be applied in a thin layer.”
Valentina, 45 years old, Murmansk, dermatologist: “I consider Infagel an effective and safe treatment for herpes. Unlike traditional Acyclovir, the drug has virtually no contraindications or side effects. The gel forms a thin film on the skin that prevents bacteria from entering the wound. With regular use, the signs of herpes disappear faster. The gel can be applied both to the skin and mucous membranes.”
Yulia, 29 years old, Moscow: “In the autumn-winter period, my son often develops rashes on his lips. The pediatrician advised the use of Infagel, which is a safer drug than Acyclovir. The gel quickly eliminates blisters, itching and burning. Within a few days, no trace remains of the rash. The tube is enough for several courses.”
Is the drug effective? What do consumers think about this?
What kind of medication does Infagel have reviews of? Most consumers talk about the undoubted effectiveness of the product. However, there is one caveat. The drug will really be useful to the patient only if the specified regimen of use is followed. It is worth saying that an overdose of a medication can be more dangerous than not receiving the specified portion of the drug.
The drug has positive reviews among parents of small children. Most mothers and fathers, on the recommendation of pediatricians, use this remedy during epidemics and the cold season. Such prevention helps to minimize viral diseases. It is worth noting that the drug "Infagel" does not have a cumulative effect. It begins to act immediately after application. A thin film forms in the nasal passages, which protects the mucous membranes from the penetration of viruses and microbes.
The medication is used very often to treat damage to the skin and mucous surfaces. Its effectiveness is undeniable. Consumers say that improvement occurs within two days of regular use of the drug. When applied to the skin, the medicine forms a film. The medication damages the structure of the virus shell and blocks its reproduction. The drug also prevents subsequent damage to neighboring healthy tissues. The convenience of using the product lies in the fact that it does not need to be applied several times a day. It is enough to use Infagel in the morning and evening. The duration of such treatment is quite short compared to similar formulations. Partial recovery occurs already on the third day. Patients can continue using the drug for up to five days. Usually by this time the maximum effect of treatment occurs.
Pharmacists note that in recent years, drugs containing interferon have gained the greatest popularity. Infagel is one of these medications.
Characteristics of Acyclovir
Acyclovir has the following characteristics:
- Release form and composition. The drug is offered in 2 forms: tablets for oral administration and ointments for topical use. Each tablet contains 200 mg of acyclovir, magnesium stearate, potato starch, cellulose powder. 1 g of ointment contains 50 mg of active ingredient, propylene glycol, poultry fat, distilled water, macrogol 400.
- Pharmachologic effect. After penetration into the affected cells, the active substance is converted into acyclovir triphosphate, which has specific antiviral activity. The chemical compound is integrated into the DNA of the herpes virus, stopping the construction of the genetic chain. The high effectiveness and safety of the drug is explained by its accumulation predominantly in affected cells. The drug prevents the appearance of new rashes and the generalization of herpes infection.
- Pharmacokinetics. When used externally, the drug acts within the epidermis and dermis. When taken orally, acyclovir is evenly distributed throughout the tissues and fluids of the body. The substance penetrates histohematic barriers and is excreted in breast milk. In the liver, the substance is converted to an inactive metabolite, which is excreted in the urine.
- Indications for use. Tablets are used in the treatment of herpetic lesions of the skin, mucous membranes and internal organs (including genital herpes and herpetic stomatitis). For preventive purposes, Acyclovir is prescribed after organ transplantation, for HIV infection, and for taking immunosuppressants and cytostatics. The ointment is used for labial and genital herpes, chicken pox and herpes zoster.
- Contraindications. Tablets and ointment are not prescribed to children under 3 years of age and to patients with individual intolerance to acyclovir. The safety of the drug for pregnant women has not been established.
- Mode of application. Tablets are taken at 200 mg every 6 hours. For generalized herpetic infections, the single dose is increased to 400 mg. The course of treatment takes at least 5 days. Apply a thin layer of ointment to the areas of skin affected by rashes. The procedure is repeated every 4-6 hours. Treat until the affected areas are completely healed.
- Side effects. When taking pills, there is often a decrease in appetite, nausea and a feeling of heaviness in the stomach. Less frequently, liver enzyme activity and bilirubin levels change. The effect of Acyclovir on the nervous system is manifested by the occurrence of headache, tremors of the limbs, dizziness, and convulsive seizures. When using the ointment, skin itching, rashes in the form of hives, and hair loss may occur.
- Interaction. Tubular secretion blockers may slow down the elimination of acyclovir, increasing its concentration in the blood. Since the bioavailability of the antiviral agent decreases with increasing dose, no adjustment of the therapeutic regimen is required.
When using Acyclovir ointment, skin itching, rashes in the form of hives, and hair loss may occur.
Medicine Infagel indications
Of course, it is worth understanding the main indications for use. As already mentioned, this gel is an antiviral agent and is widely used not only for treatment, but also for the prevention of infectious diseases. This drug is used to treat the skin and some areas of the mucous membranes.
- Infagel helps against herpes, regardless of the location of the rash. The gel is used to treat affected areas in the nose, lips and inner surface of the cheeks, in the genital area, etc.
- The drug is effective against influenza and acute respiratory infections. By the way, the medicine is often prescribed to children for precisely this purpose.
- The gel is used as part of therapy for sexually transmitted infections in pregnant women. The list of indications includes chlamydia, trichomoniasis, candidiasis, gardnerellosis, mycoplasmosis, ureaplasmosis, infection with the human papillomavirus.
- The medicine is prescribed to patients with herpetic stomatitis.
- Indications also include gingivitis and some other inflammatory diseases of the oral cavity.
- The gel is used to lubricate pimples and wounds on the skin due to chickenpox.
As you can see, this medicine helps to cope with a lot of problems. However, you should not use it without the knowledge of your doctor.
How to treat nasal passages with ointment
The gel can be used to gently treat the mucous membranes of the nose. This treatment regimen is recommended for the treatment of influenza and acute respiratory diseases of viral origin. The procedure must be repeated several times a day. Naturally, the use of ointment is only part of complex therapy in the treatment of viral infections.
The nasal passages are treated with gel for prevention. In such cases, the procedure should be carried out before going outside or before going to places where large numbers of people gather. If we are talking about prevention, then the drug should be used throughout the entire period of the epidemic, however, the duration of treatment should not exceed 1 month.
This drug is also prescribed to patients with chronic rhinitis. It is believed that the ointment can prevent the development of complications such as sinusitis or sinusitis. The gel is recommended to be placed in the nasal passages for a week. Therapy lasts about a week.
Peculiarities of use in pediatrics
Quite often, doctors prescribe the drug “Infagel” to young patients. The drug is considered safe for children, so it is used to treat newborns and even premature babies. Research results have shown that the use of ointment significantly alleviates the course of the disease and speeds up the recovery process.
"Infagel" is used for influenza and ARVI, to which children, due to the immaturity of the immune system, are more prone than adults. In addition, the ointment is recommended for treating rashes caused by herpes and chickenpox. The drug relieves swelling of skin tissue, eliminates itching and inflammation, and significantly alleviates the child’s condition.
Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics
Interferon , interacting with specific areas located on the surface of infected cells, triggers a mechanism to suppress the replication of viral proteins , promotes the production of a large number of protein kinases , thereby destroying the cellular RNA of the virus and host cells.
Together with indirect antiviral effects, it helps improve immunity by enhancing the phagocytic effect of macrophages and activating natural killer cells .
It also has radioprotective and antitumor effects and affects many processes occurring in the body, including the functionality of the central nervous system.
With local external use of the gel, interferon exhibits low systemic absorption.
Instructions for use
Enterosorbent is considered an absolutely safe medicine, therefore it is prescribed to children from the first days of life (with the exception of sweet paste). Before use, it is better to consult a pediatrician to determine the exact dose and duration of treatment.
Enterosgel paste is already ready for use, but for newborns and infants it is mixed in triple the volume of breast milk. Older children and adults simply take the drug with water or another drink.
For infants, the required amount of paste is dissolved in breast milk
The daily dose and frequency of use depend on the severity of the condition and the age of the child:
- For infants, the drug is given before each feeding (up to 6 times a day);
- for older children, the dosage is increased and the number of medications taken is reduced (3 times a day between meals).
The duration of the therapeutic course, as a rule, ranges from 7 to 14 days. In especially severe cases, taking Enterosgel can be extended to two months.
pharmachologic effect
The drug Infagel contains highly purified recombinant protein molecules, which are obtained using genetic engineering techniques. These recombinant interferon molecules have antiviral activity. The effect is realized through binding to membrane receptors with stimulation of the synthesis of specific proteins that stop the normal reproductive processes of viral cells and prevent the release of viruses from the cellular space. The drug is capable of exhibiting immunomodulatory effects by stimulating phagocytic activity; enhancing the synthesis of antibodies and lymphokine molecules. The drug has antiproliferative activity against pathological tumor cell structures. Infagel has a bacteriostatic effect.
