Types of interferons
There are about 9 types of interferon, including alpha, beta, gamma and lambda.
IFNα is most often used in medicine. The mechanism of its action is the expression of genes that disrupt the penetration of the virus into the cell and the translation of viral proteins, as well as triggering apoptosis of infected cells. ii According to the recommendation of WHO and the US National Committee on Interferon, to qualify biologically active substances as IFN, the following definition is currently accepted: “The factor determined as interferon must be of a protein nature, and also have antiviral activity against various viruses.”
To classify IFNs, the international system of IFN nomenclature is used, which is based on differences in their antigenic, biological and physicochemical properties. In humans, scientists identify nine types of IFN, and based on their ability to interact with 3 types of receptors, they are combined into 3 families:
Type I – IFNα, IFNβ, IFNε, IFNκ, IFNω
Type II – IFNγ
III type – λ1, λ2 and λ3 iv
In turn, IFNα preparations are divided into 2 large groups: biological (for the preparation of which human blood leukocytes are used) and human recombinant (for the production of which modern biotechnology is used - human genes responsible for the synthesis of IFNα are inserted into bacteria).
Pharmacological action of the drug
Interferon, as a drug, is a combination of different types of alpha interferon, obtained from human blood or laboratory-derived.
Interferon has the following properties:
- Immunomodulatory: stimulates the activity of macrophages, important for protecting the body
- Antiviral: increases the resistance of body cells to the effects of the virus.
- Antiproliferative: stops the growth of pathologically altered cells.
The advantage of interferon in suppositories
One of the most convenient forms of medications to use are suppositories. Rectal administration ensures the rapid entry of IFN into the blood and, accordingly, the immediate onset of the therapeutic effect of the drug on the body. Interferon suppositories are used to treat both adults and children.
The main advantages of suppositories are:
- Speed of action. Thanks to the dense network of blood vessels, the active substance of the drug quickly enters the blood and begins to act.
- Confidence in dosage. Using suppositories when treating children, the parent knows for sure that the entire dosage has gone inside, which cannot be said about tablets and syrups, which the child can easily spit out.
- No negative effects on the liver and stomach. Suppositories are an excellent alternative to tablet medications if the patient is already taking a large amount of medications. The rectal route of administration allows the active substance to bypass the liver and not place additional stress on it.
- Independence from food intake. Suppositories, unlike many other dosage forms of drugs, can be used at any time, without taking into account meals.
- Independence from vomiting attacks. Some infectious diseases occur with frequent bouts of vomiting. In these cases, the swallowed tablet with vomit may come out without having time to have a therapeutic effect.
- Minimal risk of developing allergies. Suppositories, unlike other oral medications, do not require various sweeteners, dyes or flavors for their production, which significantly reduces the risk of developing an allergic reaction.
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special instructions
Due to low systemic absorption, there is no effect on vehicle control.
Interaction with other pharmaceutical drugs
Due to the low concentration in the blood, it is impossible to assess the interaction with other drugs, however, clinical practice shows good compatibility of Viferon 3,000,000 suppositories with antibacterial agents, glucocorticosteroids and chemotherapy drugs.
The immunomodulatory effect of interferon in some cases makes it possible to reduce the dose of antibacterial drugs and glucocorticosteroids, which reduces the risk of side effects when taking them.
Can it be combined with alcoholic drinks?
Due to their low concentration in the blood, the components of the suppository do not interact with ethyl alcohol.
Properties, composition and release forms of interferon
Alpha-2b interferon plays the most important role in the treatment of diseases of a viral nature. It is on its basis that most of the therapeutic drugs of this group (hereinafter referred to as IFN) are manufactured.
Interferon is an immunomodulator that increases the body’s immunity to viruses and blocks their further reproduction upon penetration into the cell. The drug is universal and has a wide range of antiviral activity, since IFNs are not virus specific.
In pediatrics, interferon is used in the form of drops, suppositories and ointments, which allows you to select the most effective type of therapy for each child. The drug can be used from the first days of the baby’s life.
Drops for instillation into the nose are made by parents themselves from lyophilisate 1000 IU. Depending on the volume of added water, the amount of active substance in the resulting solution ranges from 500-1000 IU.
Suppositories are available with different concentrations of the main substance, but in pediatrics they use drugs with a dosage of 150,000-500,000 IU. In addition to alpha interferon, the suppositories include: ascorbic acid, alpha-tocopherol acetate, cocoa butter, confectionery fat.
The concentration of interferon in the ointment is 500,000 IU. In addition to the main substance, the ointment contains a complex immunoglobulin preparation and a fat base.
Introduction
Suppositories (candles) are a widely used form of interferon preparations.
They are used in the treatment of viral infections, which include HPV. Interferon suppositories are classified according to the dosage of the active component and the number of excipients. Each type of suppository has its own characteristics of impact on the body.
REFERENCE. Interferons are protein molecules that are found in the human body and help it resist the effects of viruses, bacteria, and prevent the development of cancer cells. These molecules are protectors of the body, stimulating the activity of the immune system. Suppositories contain artificially produced interferon, which is identical in effect on the body to natural interferon.
Suppositories with interferon are also used in cases of reduced immunity and insufficient production of antibodies in humans to fight viruses and bacteria.
Directions for use and doses
This drug is taken rectally or vaginally, having previously been cleared of the membrane. Before use, consult a doctor.
In children with infectious and inflammatory diseases, it is necessary to use the drug according to age.
Please note that newborns, including low birth weight infants, those with a history of illness, and gestational age infants, are prescribed alpha interferon. It must be taken strictly according to the indicated dosage. The standard dosage regimen is 150; the drug must be used twice a day. This dosage is prescribed at the specified childhood age for 5 days; you should not use it for more than that, as adverse reactions may occur.
As for premature babies, the drug is prescribed in the same dosage as described above. But, the dosage regimen is 3 times a day. This means that it is necessary to use the drug only once every 8 hours. The therapeutic course is the same.
At the discretion of the doctor, the course of treatment with this drug can be repeated after 5 days.
Operating principle
Interferon does not have a direct antiviral effect, but such proteins are capable of changing the cells that are adjacent to the affected ones, as a result of which viral particles cannot multiply in them, which prevents the spread of infection to healthy tissues. In addition, interferon has a stimulating effect on the immune system. Under its influence, substances are more actively released that activate the work of T cells, natural killer cells and macrophages.
How it works for adults
One of the drugs that contains IFN is the complex antiviral immunomodulatory drug VIFERON with a broad spectrum of action for children and adults. It has a double effect - it helps block the virus and restore immunity. The original formula of the drug is a combination of interferon alpha-2b and highly active antioxidants (vitamins C and E). It has a universal effect against a wide range of viruses and other pathogens.
VIFERON contains recombinant IFN, which is produced without the use of human blood products, thus preventing infection with HIV, hepatitis and other dangerous diseases.
1 suppository of the drug VIFERON contains human recombinant interferon alpha-2b as an active substance in dosages of 150,000 IU, 500,000 IU, 1,000,000 IU and 3,000,000 IU.
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The drug VIFERON Suppositories (suppositories) suppresses the activity of viruses and increases the effectiveness of the body’s own immune response to pathogenic microorganisms.
Cocoa butter, which is part of the drug, also has a number of unique properties:
- has excellent sliding properties, ensuring painless and atraumatic insertion;
- has anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effects, activates lipid metabolism;
- polyphenols in cocoa butter have an antiallergic effect, while unlike cocoa powder, butter does not contain allergens;
- melts quickly, causing no discomfort from the presence of a foreign body in the rectum, which is especially in demand in pediatrics;
- ensures rapid absorption of all components of the suppository and, unlike various synthetic fats that have dehydrating properties and a high melting point, does not have an irritating effect.
Taking the drug VIFERON Candles (suppositories) is allowed during pregnancy (from the 14th week).
ARVI, including influenza, including those complicated by bacterial infection, pneumonia | Infectious and inflammatory diseases of the urogenital tract | Herpetic infection of the skin and mucous membranes, including the urogenital form in adults |
The recommended dose of the drug VIFERON with interferon for adults, including pregnant women and children over 7 years old is VIFERON 500,000 IU, 1 suppository 2 times a day after 12 hours every day for 5 days. According to clinical indications, therapy can be continued. | The recommended dose for adults is VIFERON 500,000 IU, 1 suppository 2 times a day after 12 hours every day for 5-10 days. According to clinical indications, therapy can be continued. | The recommended dose for adults is VIFERON 1,000,000 IU, 1 suppository 2 times a day every 12 hours every day for 10 days or more for recurrent infections. According to clinical indications, therapy can be continued. |
How it works for children
ARVI, including influenza, including those complicated by bacterial infection, pneumonia
Children under 7 years old, incl. newborns and premature infants with a gestational age of more than 34 weeks are prescribed VIFERON 150,000 IU, 1 suppository 2 times a day every 12 hours every day for 5 days. According to clinical indications, therapy can be continued. The break between courses is 5 days.
Premature newborns with a gestational age of less than 34 weeks are prescribed VIFERON 150,000 IU, 1 suppository 3 times a day after 8 hours every day for 5 days. According to clinical indications, therapy can be continued. The break between courses is 5 days.
Infectious and inflammatory diseases of newborns, including premature babies: meningitis, sepsis, intrauterine infection
Recommended dose for newborns, incl. premature babies with a gestational age of more than 34 weeks - VIFERON 150,000 IU daily, 1 suppository 2 times a day after 12 hours. The course of treatment is 5 days.
Premature newborns with a gestational age of less than 34 weeks are prescribed VIFERON 150,000 IU daily, 1 suppository 3 times a day every 8 hours. The course of treatment is 5 days.
Recommended number of courses for various infectious and inflammatory diseases: sepsis - 2-3 courses, meningitis - 1-2 courses, herpes infection - 2 courses, enterovirus infection - 1-2 courses, cytomegalovirus infection - 2-3 courses, mycoplasmosis, candidiasis, incl. visceral – 2-3 courses. The break between courses is 5 days. According to clinical indications, therapy can be continued.
Descriptions of the medication
A yellow or white-yellow candle has the shape of a bullet. The diameter of the suppository is less than 1 cm.
For ease of insertion into the rectum, there is a recess at the blunt end of the suppository.
Release form
Rectal suppositories Viferon 3,000,000 IU are available in a cardboard box of 5 or 10 pieces. Candles are in PVC packaging, divided into 5 or 10 cells. Each candle is in a separate cell for easy removal.
Composition and main active ingredient
The main active substance of the drug is human recombinant interferon alpha-2b. Each suppository contains 3,000,000 IU of active ingredient.
In addition to it, the composition contains additional components:
- ascorbic acid;
- alpha tocopherol;
- polysorbate;
- sodium ascorbate;
- cocoa butter substitute.
ATX code
The ATC code for this drug is L03AB05 (interferon alfa-2b).
Pharmacokinetics
Viferon 3,000,000 IU suppositories are used topically. With this method of administration, the absorption of interferon is extremely small, which does not allow tracking the metabolism of the substance in the body.
Pharmacodynamics
Human recombinant interferon alpha-2b has antiviral, immunomodulatory and antiproliferative properties.
The main active ingredient of the drug suppresses the formation of viral RNA and DNA, due to which the drug has an antiviral effect.
Together with alpha-tocopherol and ascorbic acid, interferon alpha-2b increases the activity of phagocytes and leukocytes against bacterial and viral agents; with the use of Viferon, the level of secretory immunoglobulin A increases, which ensures the immunomodulatory activity of the drug.
General recommendations
Insert rectal suppositories with clean hands, first place the child on his side. Do this slowly and carefully until you feel the suppository “failure”. This sensation will mean that the candle has crossed the boundaries of the sphincter and is located in the rectum.
The anus does not require any pre-treatment, but sometimes parents use Vaseline oil to facilitate the insertion of the suppository.
Monitor your child carefully during the first 24 hours after starting the drug. Allergic reactions, if any, will appear in the first 24 hours. If this happens, tell your doctor and stop taking the drug.
Do not use antiviral suppositories more than two courses per year. This can have a negative impact on the child’s immune system.
Sources:
- https://viferon.su/svechi-s-interferonom/
- https://zdorrov.com/instruktsii-po-primeneniyu/interferon1.html
- https://VseProRebenka.ru/zdorove/preparaty/svechi-interferon-dlya-detej.html
- https://drugs.medelement.com/drug/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D1%84%D0%B5%D1%80%D0%BE%D0%BD-150000%D0%BC%D0%B5 -%D0%B8%D0%BD%D1%81%D1%82%D1%80%D1%83%D0%BA%D1%86%D0%B8%D1%8F/816330631477650942?instruction_lang=RU
- https://o-krohe.ru/protivovirusnye/interferon/
- https://o-krohe.ru/protivovirusnye/svechi/
- https://gaimoritstop.ru/interferon-svechi.html
- https://vseopapillome.com/lekarstva/instrukciya-po-primeneniyu-svechi-interferon.html
Analogues of rectal suppositories
There are other drugs on the pharmaceutical market in the form of suppositories with immunomodulatory activity based on human interferons.
The most popular analogues include the following drugs:
- Kipferon.
- Genferon.
- Giaferon.
- Interal et al.
Important!
These drugs, despite their similar composition, have different dosages and different indications for use. If it is necessary to replace the medicine with a similar one, you should consult your doctor.
Contraindications
Having considered the indications for Viferon suppositories (for children), it is necessary to note the only case when the use of this product is strictly prohibited - allergies. It manifests itself in the form of redness and the presence of itching sensations. If there are any signs of allergy to Viferon suppositories (in a child) or to one of the components included in the product, its use should be stopped immediately. Practice shows that all symptoms are eliminated almost immediately.
Medical experts say that cases of allergies in children to the components of the drug are quite rare. They also note that this phenomenon cannot in any way be related to an overdose of the drug - its cases are simply not observed.
The use of "Viferon" is possible in combination with most other drugs, which can be considered one of the advantages of the drug
Conclusions: what you need to know for treatment with geneferon
Genferon is one of the latest drugs to stimulate the immune system. In addition to traditional interferon, it additionally contains taurine and an anesthetic. The combined action of these components provides a therapeutic effect - suppositories help in the treatment of herpes and other sexually transmitted infections . However, high concentrations often cause allergic reactions or side effects.
Genferon suppositories can be administered rectally (into the intestines) or vaginally (into the vagina) . Where to administer depends on gender and disease. When treating any infections in men, geneferon is administered rectally. When treating women, it is administered vaginally ( for inflammation of the genital organs
) and rectally - for the treatment of all other infections.
VIFERON 3 million suppositories for the treatment of HPV, original treatment regimens
The human papillomavirus, which leads to the development of human papillomavirus infection, is a large group of genetically diverse viruses containing DNA. These viruses can infect the skin and mucous membranes. Warts on the hands and feet, filamentous growths on the neck, genital warts - all these are manifestations of the human papillomavirus.
Up to 80% or more of the adult population of the planet is infected with HPV during their lifetime, and they are not necessarily infected from a sexual partner; household transmission of the virus from mother to child is also common.i The virus can also be transmitted through touching hands during greetings, during general use personal hygiene items, after trying on someone else's underwear and while visiting a swimming pool, bathhouse and fitness clubs with shared showers.
During sexual intercourse, the use of condoms reduces the risk of infection, but does not eliminate it completely. The risk remains high when the tumors are located outside the organs protected by the contraceptive. In “sleep” mode, the virus can exist in the body for many years without making itself felt. There is also a phenomenon called “self-elimination,” when strong immunity completely eliminates HPV from the body. Most often this happens to young people under 30 years of age.
Unfortunately, human papillomavirus infection is not at all harmless - HPV viruses of high oncogenic risk significantly increase the risk of developing cancer of the cervix, penis in men and anal canal. Therefore, today the search for the most effective methods for treating the manifestations of this disease remains relevant.
Only human papillomaviruses of high oncogenic risk lead to the development of cancer. Low-risk viruses only lead to the appearance of condylomas on the genitals. These tumors are not precancerous and need to be removed for aesthetic reasons.
Studies on the use of the drug VIFERON in high dosage in the presence of clinical symptoms of HPV were conducted at the Moscow Scientific and Practical Center of Dermatovenereology and Cosmetology of the Moscow Department of Health. As an additional treatment, topical antiviral agents applied to the skin have been used.1
Reviews
Genferon did not suit me. For 8 days of taking the drug (I took it rectally, because I was taking Hexicon at the same time), I just experienced wild pain in my stomach, slept disgustingly at night, not to mention the consequences that did not leave me during the day)) The husband who took this drug together with me, the sensations were the same. Natalie, like you, I was prescribed Genferon 1 million units per night, do as the doctor prescribed.
Guest , https://www.woman.ru/health/woman-health/thread/4010293/
These suppositories treat many diseases of the “female” organs. I used them to cure both thrush and herpes very quickly and without negative consequences for the rest of the body. I was recently diagnosed with cervical erosion and told to do cauterization. But I decided to try to be cured with medication and immediately remembered the candles. I put them on for 10 days and saw a doctor a month later - the erosion had decreased. And a year later she was no longer there!
Lydia , https://www.piluli.ru/product/Genferon/review
The gynecologist prescribed them for me - she discovered a slight erosion and the smear analysis was not so great, in general I took a course of 5 suppositories every night - they are comfortable, small and do not leak, in the morning there are no greasy spots on the bed. During the reception, my lower stomach ached a little, but not much. The erosion after them healed quite well, by the way.
Natasha , https://www.piluli.ru/product/Genferon/review
Good evening everyone. I am 18 weeks pregnant. The doctor prescribed Genferon Light suppositories (I have chronic thrush). On the second day of using them, I developed severe itching and burning. This was not observed before the introduction. It's been going on for 2 days now. Itching and burning appear from time to time.
Iza , https://deti.mail.ru/id1013471887/
Consequences of overdose for a child's health
Often, an overdose of Interferon does not manifest itself, but sometimes the following side effects can be observed:
- allergic manifestations in the form of rash or itching;
- heart failure (arrhythmia, pressure surges);
- nausea, vomiting;
- dizziness;
- seizures;
- overexcitation, sleep disturbance;
- pain in the muscles;
- constipation or diarrhea.
Important!
With frequent or long-term use, the child’s immunity stops working without the support of Interferon.
If any of these negative effects occur, consult your doctor immediately.
Cautions
Do not combine the use of suppositories with taking other rectal medications that are made on the basis of an oily ingredient (sea buckthorn and pumpkin oil). The lining of the inside of the rectum, due to the oily barrier, complicates the absorption of interferon - as a result, the effectiveness of using the drug is significantly reduced.
The drug must be stored in a place protected from children and exposure to light. Safe ambient temperature limits are from +2 to +8 degrees (refrigerated storage). The shelf life of Viferon-3 suppositories expires two years after the release of the drug. If an allergy occurs, the symptoms disappear completely after a 3-day period from the moment you stop taking the suppositories.
Indications
In addition to a dozen different viral diseases, Interferon in the form of suppositories not only perfectly counteracts the herpes virus, but also fights such troubles as:
- Acute respiratory infections and ARVI of advanced form with complications in the form of pneumonia, meningitis.
- Flu.
- Urogenital herpes.
- Venereal diseases.
- Children's viral diseases - measles, chickenpox, rubella.
- Infectious diseases of the genitourinary system.
- Prevention of various viral diseases.