Tablets for colds and flu: ingavirin, arbidol, rimantadine, cycloferon, amiksin and kagocel. Comparison of antivirals

In the autumn-winter period, when there is a high risk of influenza, it’s time to replenish your first aid kit with the necessary medications. Which medicine should I choose? There are two main types of medications to treat viral infections. The first are substances that have a direct effect on viruses. They damage important components of the virus and stop its reproduction. The second are drugs that act on the human immune system. They mobilize the body's own cells to fight infection.

What is the difference?

Belongs to the pharmaceutical group of antiviral drugs, i.e., drugs with direct antiviral action (the first type of drugs discussed). It contains an active substance with a similar name rimantadine. The main difference between Cycloferon is that it belongs to the second type of drugs. Its active component, called methylglucamine acridone acetate, is an interferon inducer.

Cycloferon is a domestically produced medicine. It is produced by Polisan (Russia) in the following dosage forms:

1. 5% liniment (for external use),
2. tablets of 0.15 g of active substance (for oral administration),
3. solution 125 mg/ml (for IM and IV administration).

In terms of release form, the difference between Remantadine is that it exists only in the form of tablets of 0.05 g. Manufacturers:

• OLAINFARM (Latvia),
• Biokhimik and Rozfarm (Russia).

How do they affect the virus and the immune system?

Rimantadine was discovered and patented in the USA back in the 70s of the last century. In the 90s it was introduced into clinical practice. To understand how rimantadine works, let's learn a little about the biological cycle of the influenza virus.

Many cells in the human body have the ability to absorb the smallest particles or droplets through endocytosis. At the same time, a depression with an absorbed particle is formed in their membrane, which closes into a vesicle (endosome). Endosomes are needed to store and transport substances within the cell.

Viruses have adapted this cellular mechanism for their own purposes. First, the virus binds to the cell surface, then enters the cell as part of the endosomal contents. The acidic environment in the endosome promotes the activation of a special protein of the virus, called the M2 protein. After this, the virus sheds its envelope, the viral RNAs enter the cell and infect its nucleus. Now the cell is “enslaved” and becomes a factory for the production of new viral particles.

Rimantadine acts on the M2 protein, inhibiting it and thereby preventing the virus from reproducing. However, it is only effective against influenza A, since other types of influenza do not have such a protein.

Meglumine acridone acetate (Cycloferon) is a domestic synthetic immunostimulant and inducer of interferon production. It has quite a long experience of use, since it was introduced into clinical practice back in the 90s of the last century. In Western medicine, acridone acetate has not been tested and is not used, but in ours it is included in the list of the most important and vital medicines.

Opponents have completely different mechanisms of action. We already know that when a virus enters a cell of the human body, it reassigns it and forces it to work for itself. But the affected cells continue to resist and communicate the viral invasion to their fellow cells using proteins called interferons. Interferons produced by infected cells are able to stop the chain of synthesis of viral particles and, in addition, “call for help” to an army of immune cells. Thus, by common efforts the virus will be defeated.

However, the release of interferons during a viral attack is short-lived and may not be enough for complete victory. Acridone acetate allows you to prolong the production of interferon up to 3 days. It has been established that, in addition to antiviral activity, this substance has:

• antitumor,
• radioprotective,
• anti-inflammatory,
• analgesic effect.

Is it possible to take them together?

For severe forms of influenza, both types of drugs are used - with direct antiviral action and interferon inducers (or simply interferon). However, at present they are rarely prescribed simultaneously. The fact is that since 2005, new strains of the influenza A virus have appeared that are not sensitive to the M2 blocker rimantadine. It is noted that now more than half of the cases cannot be cured with this antiviral drug. Therefore, the modern protocol for the treatment of severe influenza in combination with Cycloferon includes other antiviral drugs, for example, oseltamivir and zanamivir.

How effective?

Experimental and clinical observations can tell us about this. For example, in experiments on mice infected with influenza, it was found that Cycloferon protected 60-70% of animals from death, regardless of the subtype of the virus used. But the effectiveness of the direct antiviral drugs rimantadine and Tamiflu (oseltamivir) was very different. Tamiflu on average protected about 70% of animals, also regardless of the type of virus.

Rimantadine was able to protect up to 97% of animals, however, provided that the mice were infected with a strain sensitive to its action. Unfortunately, determining the sensitivity of the virus requires time, which is so lacking in severe and complicated forms of influenza.

A retrospective analysis of the clinical use of Cycloferon indicates its high effectiveness in the emergency prevention of influenza (a situation when someone nearby has already become infected with the flu, and you really don’t want to be next). Against the background of its intake, the level of anti-influenza protection is about 65%. In the remaining 35%, the disease is mild, the period of fever is reduced to 2 days, and the number of complications is reduced by almost 10 times.

How much will treatment courses cost?

The decision to take this or that drug, as well as the treatment regimen, should be made by the doctor, depending on the symptoms of the disease and the severity of the patient’s condition. Here we provide general information about the drugs, an approximate course of their use and average daily norms.

Adults for a course of treatment with Cycloferon will need 20 tablets at the rate of: taking 4 tablets/day for 5 days (in the first two days, then on days 4, 6, and 8). A package of the drug (20 tablets) costs from 370 to 450 rubles.

Rimantadine is prescribed to adults according to the scheme “from higher to lower doses”: 6 tablets. for 1 day, 4 tablets. on days 2 and 3, 2 tablets. on days 4 and 5. A total of 18 tablets are required. A package (20 pcs.), depending on the manufacturer, costs 2-4 times less than Cycloferon.

On the eve of the autumn-winter season, the topic of treating influenza is, after all, relevant. After all, the period from November to the end of March is the most favorable for the occurrence of influenza epidemics and pandemics.

Influenza is an infectious disease of the upper respiratory tract, which is acute and caused by the influenza virus.

Influenza infection occurs through airborne droplets and household contact. In the first option, the influenza virus passes from a sick person to a healthy person by breathing, coughing, talking or sneezing with droplets of mucus, sputum or saliva that contain the pathogen.

Through contact and household contact, viruses are transferred to a healthy body through hands and household items.

After the pathogen enters the human body, it takes some time for it to multiply - this is the so-called incubation period, which lasts from several hours to 2-4 days. After which the patient appears in the form of general weakness, fatigue, high fever, headache, pain in muscles and joints, cough.

Treatment of influenza and ARVI

Treatment of influenza and colds is based on three principles - eliminating the pathogen (etiotropic therapy), stopping the development of the disease (pathogenetic therapy) and relieving symptoms (symptomatic therapy).

Many would like to find an effective, inexpensive, and most importantly safe remedy for getting rid of the flu. In this article I will try to talk in detail about the most popular and effective drugs that are used in the fight against influenza and colds.

The basis of Tamiflu is oseltamivir, which binds the neuromidase of the viral cell and thus prevents the reproduction and spread of the virus in the body.

Tamiflu significantly shortens the period of influenza illness, reduces the risk of complications, reduces the severity of symptoms, and also reduces the incidence of illness by 92% in those who have been in contact with patients with influenza. If you start taking the drug on the first day, its effectiveness increases significantly.

During therapy with oseltamivir, there was no inhibition of the formation of antibodies to influenza viruses, and resistance to the drug did not develop.

Tamiflu is used to treat diseases caused by influenza A and B viruses in adults and children over one year of age (for infants over six months of age during an influenza epidemic). For the purpose of prevention, the drug is prescribed to persons who have had contact with a patient with influenza.

Tamiflu is not effective for acute respiratory diseases caused by other pathogens.

Interesting! Tamiflu acts prophylactically only while taking it, and cannot in any way replace vaccine prophylaxis.

Unfortunately, the following side effects are observed when taking the drug:

• from the digestive tract: nausea and vomiting (appears when taking the first doses of the drug, goes away on its own), epigastric pain, diarrhea;
• from the nervous system: headaches, dizziness, seizures, insomnia, general weakness. Very rarely - delirium, inappropriate behavior, hallucinations, nightmares. The direct relationship of these manifestations with the use of oseltamivir has not been monitored;
• from the respiratory system: inflammation of the bronchi, trachea, larynx, nasal mucosa, cough;
• from the liver: drug-induced hepatitis, development of liver failure;
• allergic reactions in the form of eczema, dermatitis, urticaria, bronchospasm, toxic epidermal necrolysis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome;
• nosebleeds, inflammation of the conjunctiva and middle ear, enlarged lymph nodes, heart rhythm disturbances.

Important! The drug is strictly not prescribed to persons with hypersensitivity to the components of Tamiflu, children under six months, and patients with end-stage renal failure.

The drug can be prescribed to pregnant women, since its negative effect on the fetus has not been proven. Tamiflu is used in children aged 6 to 12 months only when the expected effect exceeds the risk of side effects of the drug.

The drug is available in the form of tablets and powder for the preparation of suspension.

Relenza (Zanamivir)

Relenza is an antiviral drug that selectively acts on influenza A and B viruses. The active ingredient of the drug is zanamivir, which inhibits the neuromidase of viral cells. Without neuromidase, the virus cannot penetrate the epithelium of the upper respiratory tract and spread from cell to cell.

Relenza reduces the incidence of influenza in contacts by 78%.

Relenza is used in the form of inhalations through a diskhaler in adults and children over five years of age as etiotropic therapy for influenza. The drug is also effective in preventing the disease in risk groups.

Relenza, like Tamiflu, shortens the period of illness, the severity of symptoms and reduces the risk of complications.

The following side effects may occur during inhalation:

• allergic reactions in the form of angioedema, bronchospasm, difficulty breathing, urticaria, erythema, toxic epidermal necrolysis, Steven-Johnson syndrome;
• rarely there may be convulsions, hallucinations, delirium, and inappropriate behavior.

Relenza is not used in the following conditions:

• hypersensitivity to the components of the drug;
• with a history of bronchospasm;
• in the first trimester of pregnancy;
• in children under five years of age;
• during breastfeeding.

Remantadine is an antiviral drug based on adamantane. The drug has a detrimental effect on influenza A and B viruses, as well as arboviruses. Remantadine blocks the synthesis of viral envelope proteins, namely M2 channels.

Rimantadine is used in the early treatment of influenza in adults and children over seven years of age. Also for the prevention of influenza and viral tick-borne encephalitis.

Taking Remantadine may be accompanied by the following side effects:

• indigestion, diarrhea;
• skin rash;
• sleep, attention and movement disorders, depression;
• noise in ears;
• hoarseness of voice.

• acute kidney pathology or exacerbation of chronic diseases;
• acute liver pathology;
• the period of bearing a child and breastfeeding;
• hypersensitivity to the components of Remantadine;
• increased thyroid function.

Remantadine is available in tablet form.

Arbidol

Arbidol is an excellent antiviral agent for the treatment of influenza A and B.

The basis of the drug is umifenovir, which increases the body’s ability to produce its own interferons. Interferons are special proteins that fight viruses.

Interesting! The main purpose of Arbidol is the treatment and prevention of influenza A and B. The earlier therapy with the drug is started, the higher its effectiveness.

When treated with Arbidol, allergic reactions may occur in the form of rash, dermatitis, Quincke's edema.

The drug is not used in patients with concomitant diseases of the cardiovascular system, liver and kidneys in the terminal stages, as well as in cases of hypersensitivity to its components.

Amiksin is an excellent antiviral drug that is not inferior in effectiveness to Arbidol.

The active ingredient of Amiksin is tilorone, which is an effective low-molecular synthetic inducer of interferons A, B and G. Interferons are produced in the intestinal epithelium, neutrophils, hepatocytes, granulocytes, T-lymphocytes.

The main purpose of Amiksin is the treatment of influenza, ARVI, viral hepatitis, herpetic and cytomegalovirus infections. The drug is effective in preventing influenza and ARVI. Reception should begin as early as possible.

Arbidol may cause the following side effects:

• diarrhea and abdominal pain, nausea;
• depression;
• urticaria, dermatitis, Quincke's edema;
• chills.

Important! Amiksin is contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, pregnant women and children under seven years of age.

The drug is available in tablet form.

Groprinosine is made from inosine pranobex and excipients. The mechanism of action of inosine pranobex is to suppress the synthesis of viral mRNA (direct antiviral effect), as well as to activate the synthesis of cytokines and increase the phagocytic activity of macrophages.

Groprinosin is effective for the following conditions and diseases:

• treatment of ARVI, viral bronchitis, measles, mumps, herpes, cytomegalovirus infection, viral hepatitis B;
• treatment of infectious diseases of the genitourinary and respiratory systems caused by intracellular pathogens.

Note! To obtain the desired effect from treatment with Groprinosin, treatment should be started no later than 48 hours from the onset of the first symptoms of the disease.

Groprinosin is well tolerated by patients, but sometimes transient increases in the amount of uric acid, loss of appetite, nausea, pain in the pit of the stomach, stool disorders, headaches, dizziness, dermatitis, insomnia, and joint pain may occur.

Gronprinosin is contraindicated in case of individual hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, pregnancy, breastfeeding, urolithiasis, end-stage renal failure.

Groprinosin is available in tablet form.

Cycloferon is a drug based on acridoneacetic acid with immunomodulatory, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative and antitumor effects.

Cycloferon increases the secretion of its own interferons in the liver, spleen, lungs, intestinal mucosa and the formation of granulocytes by stem cells. The drug disrupts the formation of tumor cells and metastases.

It can also suppress autoimmune processes in the body, thereby reducing pain and symptoms of inflammation in systemic diseases.

Antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory effects are manifested with local use of the drug, acute respiratory viral infections,

Cycloferon is used to treat herpetic infections, influenza, ARVI, intestinal infections, neuroinfections, secondary immunodeficiency, chronic viral hepatitis A, B, D and C, HIV infection 2A-3B, systemic lupus erythematosus, cytomegalovirus infection, chlamydia, arthrosis deformans.

Local use of cycloferon can complement the treatment of nonspecific vaginosis, balanoposthitis, urethritis, genital candidiasis, gonorrhea, and trichomonas infection.

Cycloferon is well tolerated by patients. Sometimes allergic reactions to the components of the drug may occur in the form of urticaria, erythema, Quincke's edema.

Cycloferon is not used in the terminal stage of liver cirrhosis, in case of hypersensitivity to its components, as well as in pregnant and lactating mothers.

Cycloferon is available in the form of tablets, solution for parenteral administration and liniment.

Grippferon is a new drug with immunomodulatory, antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects in the form of nasal drops or spray. The drug consists of interferon alpha-2 and its stabilizers.

active against coronaviruses, rhinoviruses, adenoviruses, influenza and parainfluenza viruses. The development of viral resistance to the drug was not observed.

Grippferon reduces the severity of clinical manifestations of viral infections, shortens the febrile period and reduces the risk of complications.

The drug is widely used for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes for ARVI and influenza.

Grippferon has a minimal number of side effects - allergic reactions in the form of Quincke's edema, urticaria, dermatitis.

Grippferon can be prescribed for the treatment and prevention of influenza and ARVI in pregnant and lactating women.

Grippferon is available in the form of metered nasal drops and nasal spray.

Viferon is an effective antiviral, immunomodulatory and antiproliferative drug, which consists of human recombinant alpha-2-interferon, ascorbic acid and alpha-tocopherol acetate.

The drug activates T-helper cells, cytotoxic T-lymphocytes, B-lymphocytes, which prevent the proliferation of viruses. Vitamins A and E are powerful antioxidants and membrane stabilizers, thanks to which interferon activity increases 10-15 times. Taking the drug for a long time does not lead to the development of viral resistance.

Viferon is used rectally in the complex treatment of many infectious and inflammatory diseases, acute respiratory viral infections, pneumonia, meningitis, sepsis, as well as intrauterine infection with chlamydia, herpesvirus, cytomegalovirus, candidiasis, mycoplasmosis.

Viferon has proven itself well in the complex treatment of hepatitis B, C and D, urogenital infections (chlamydia, cytomegalovirus infection, ureaplasmosis, trichomoniasis, gardnerellosis, human papillomavirus infection, bacterial vaginosis, recurrent vaginal candidiasis, mycoplasmosis), herpetic infection.

Viferon very rarely causes side effects such as allergic dermatitis or urticaria.

The drug is not used if there is hypersensitivity to its components.

Viferon in the form of an ointment is safe for pregnant and lactating women. Viferon suppositories are recommended for use from the 14th week of pregnancy.

Lavomax is a drug based on tilorone, which has immunomodulatory and antiviral effects by increasing the formation of endogenous alpha, beta and gamma interferons, as well as stimulating the secretion of antibodies by the bone marrow.

The drug has a detrimental effect on influenza and acute respiratory infections viruses, parainfluenza, herpes simplex and hepatitis. Tiloron inhibits the reproduction of viruses in the cells of the body.

Lavomax is effective in the treatment and prevention of influenza and ARVI, viral hepatitis A, B and C, cytomegalovirus infection, herpes infection, urogenital infections, chlamydia.

Most patients tolerate the drug well. In some cases, adverse reactions may occur in the form of chills, allergies, diarrhea, and nausea.

The use of Lavomax is strictly prohibited in case of hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, in pregnant and lactating women, and in childhood.

Lavomax is available in tablet form.

Before taking any medication, to avoid its side and negative effects on your body, you should definitely consult your doctor. If you notice an adverse reaction to the drug, immediately stop taking it and notify your doctor. Don't self-medicate and stay healthy!

Every year, with the onset of cold weather, the human body becomes vulnerable to acute respiratory viral infections, colloquially called “colds,” as well as to their more dangerous representative, the flu. Most adults and children remember these diseases at a time when it is too late to think about preventive measures.

What to do when the disease has already begun to affect the body, and there is not enough time to go to the doctor? How to choose the right tablets among the wide variety of cold and flu remedies on pharmacy shelves if you don’t want to take antibiotics at all?

There is a whole list of medications (the names are given below) that help cope with the symptoms of viral and infectious diseases, as well as strengthen the human immune system. These drugs enhance the effectiveness of drugs such as antibiotics, increasing human immunity.

The most effective and popular medications for colds and flu:

• Immunostimulants ( Arbidol, Cycloferon, Amiksin) – strengthening agents that should be taken to restore immunity and alleviate the symptoms of viral diseases;
• Antiviral ( Ingavirin, Remantadine, Arbidol, Kagocel) – tablets, the main purpose of which is the prevention and suppression of infectious and viral diseases.

To treat serious forms of colds or flu, antibiotics are needed, since the substances contained in medications help cope only with the initial stage of the disease.

Immunostimulants

Arbidol

Arbidol is an immunostimulant that specifically suppresses influenza A, B and coronavirus. According to the mechanism of action, it can be classified as an inhibitor, since the components included in the composition prevent the influence of viruses on the body, preventing their fusion with cell membranes. Arbidol has a moderate immunomodulatory effect, as well as an interferon-inducing effect, stimulating cellular and humoral reactions of the immune system, increasing the body's resistance to colds and flu, both for children and adults.

Arbidol has the following advantages:

• Arbidol prevents the development of complications after infectious diseases;
• Arbidol is an indispensable tool in the fight against chronic bacterial diseases;
• Arbidol reduces the severity of clinical phenomena and general intoxication, reducing the duration of the disease.

Arbidol is widely used as a prevention of influenza and colds in adults and children over three years of age.

For pregnant women, Arbidol is prescribed if the benefit to the mother exceeds the potential risk to the fetus. For children, it is recommended to take this drug in the minimum dosages calculated by the pediatrician.

Cycloferon

Fig 1. Cyclopheon release forms

Tablets of the drug Cycloferon can be replaced with injections or ointment, which allows patients who have contraindications to take the drug. The variety of forms of the product produced is shown in the photo ( rice. 1). Cycloferon is an inducer of interferons, acting as an immunomodulatory and antiviral agent that should be taken against the primary symptoms of infectious diseases.

Cycloferon has the following effects on the body:

• Cycloferon has a wide spectrum of antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects;
• Cycloferon tablets induce high titers of interferon, which contain lymphoid elements;
• Cycloferon, like antibiotics, effectively fights not only flu and cold symptoms, but also helps against tick-borne encephalitis, herpes and hepatitis;
• Cycloferon promotes the activation of phagocytosis and cytotoxic cells.

Cycloferon should be taken by children over four years of age and adults, the purpose of which is not only to prevent viral diseases, but also to accelerate the recovery process.

Tablets should not be taken if you have hypersensitivity to their components or cirrhosis of the liver. Cycloferon is also not recommended for pregnant and lactating women.

Amiksin

Amiksin tablets are a low-molecular synthetic interferon inducer that stimulates the formation of gamma, beta and alpha interferon in the body. The drug should be taken in strictly prescribed dosages, despite the fact that it is non-toxic and well tolerated. Amiksin is not only a strengthening and therapeutic agent, as it can also be used for preventive purposes.

Amiksin has the following pharmacological properties:

• Amiksin, due to the enhancement of the immune system, suppresses the activity of viruses and infections that cause flu or colds, so it should be taken for the primary manifestations of these diseases;
• Amiksin can be used as an adjuvant during drug therapy, the main therapeutic drug of which is antibiotics;
• Amiksin activates the growth of stem cells, helping to strengthen the immune system and fight viruses;
• Amiksin tablets are indispensable against herpes and hepatitis, and are also effective in preventing cytomegalovirus infection.

Amiksin tablets are recommended for children over seven years of age and adults who do not have individual intolerance to their components. The drug has contraindications such as early childhood, hypersensitivity and breastfeeding. Amiksin is contraindicated in pregnant women, but some doctors weigh the benefits for the mother against the risks for the fetus.

Antiviral drugs

Ingavirin

Fig 2. Ingavirin capsules

The innovative drug Ingavirin is a Russian drug effective against influenza A and B viruses, respiratory syncytial virus, parainfluenza viruses and adenovirus infection. Ingavirin is available in capsules shown in the photo ( Fig.2), the active ingredient of which is pentanedionic acid, which has a multi-vector effect:

• Ingavirin as an immunomodulatory agent - imidazolylethanamide, contained in pentandynic acid, has a stimulating effect on the immune system, and also increases the interferon-producing activity of leukocytes and the number of virus-eliminating cells;
• Ingavirin as an antiviral drug - the components of the drug inhibit the reproduction of viruses and inhibit the activity of varion proteins in the cell nucleus, which is similar to the effect that antibiotics have;
• Ingavirin has an anti-inflammatory effect, which helps fight colds and flu.

Prevention of viral infections with this remedy is very effective, as it avoids the need for drugs such as antibiotics.

Remantadine

Figure 3. Packaging of Remantadine

The antiviral drug Remantadine is often called Rimantadine, but the latter option is erroneous, as confirmed by the photo ( Fig.3). Remantadine is available in the form of tablets or syrup, which should be taken not only against the first signs of a cold, but also against influenza A. This drug has an immunomodulatory and antitoxic effect, and is also used as the prevention of infectious diseases, which is achieved due to its polymer structure.

Remantadine has the following pharmacological actions:

Remantadine is recommended for adults to drink in the form of tablets, and for children this medicine is available in the form of syrup, the image of which is shown in the photo ( Fig.4). Although rimantadine is safe and more of a preventative than a therapeutic agent, it should not be taken without consulting a doctor.

Kagocel

Kagocel is an anti-inflammatory agent that induces the production of late interferon, which is highly active in the fight against viruses. The maximum dosage of the drug in the blood serum is achieved 2 days after its administration and circulates for 4-5 days. The drug Kagocel is non-toxic when strictly observed in therapeutic dosages, and also does not have carcinogenic, embryotoxic, teratogenic and mutagenic effects.

For pregnant women in the first trimester, Kagocel is not recommended, because it can negatively affect the development of the fetus and the course of the gestation process itself.

Kagocel has the following indications for use:

The dosage of Kagocel should not be exceeded, as an overdose may occur, which requires drinking plenty of fluids and inducing vomiting to eliminate. Treatment can be resumed only after medical consultation.

In conclusion, I would like to draw attention to the fact that even harmless drugs such as immunostimulants and antivirals should not be taken without prior medical consultation. This is especially dangerous for children, pregnant women, as well as persons who have contraindications to their use.

What infectious diseases worry us most often? The answer is simple - it's influenza and ARVI. They account for 70% of all reported cases of infectious diseases. 9 out of ten people get sick with ARVI or influenza at least once a year. This is why the incidence of infectious diseases is so high.

Why does the respiratory tract suffer so often? There are simply too many negative factors affecting our respiratory system. This includes polluted air, chemical fumes, hypothermia, and viruses. We will talk about viruses and the fight against them. We are surrounded by many pathogenic microorganisms. The influenza virus mutates almost every year, making it more difficult for our immune system to work. It is joined by adenoviruses, parainfluenza, reoviruses, rhinoviruses, respiratory viruses, chlamydia, mycoplasma, and bacteria. All these viruses mutate quickly, easily penetrating the body. Most of these pathogens are primarily transmitted through airborne droplets. And this is a fairly easy way of penetration into the body.

The main barrier to viruses is the immune system. It is this that is designed to protect us from most viruses. But if the immune system is weakened, the disease gains strength and attacks our organs and tissues. When the immune system can no longer cope with the virus, antiviral drugs come to the rescue. Their peculiarity is that for maximum effect, you need to take them at the first signs of the disease. This way you will protect yourself from the toxic effects of viruses. Antiviral drugs can and should be used for colds. Let us remind you that acute respiratory viral infections, influenza and other viral diseases can provoke serious complications in the lungs and bronchi, as well as aggravate existing chronic diseases. Inexpensive antiviral drugs can help prevent this. Antiviral drugs for adults and children should be used at the onset of the disease. But what antiviral drugs are best to use for a particular patient will be determined by the doctor.

In the case of a cold, treatment will be more symptomatic. It is designed to lower temperature, reduce inflammation and avoid the toxic effects of viruses. Antiviral drugs may also be used. Side effects are possible, but colds and flu can lead to much more serious complications. The cost of these drugs is quite affordable. Very often, antiviral drugs are used to strengthen the immune system and prevent them; the list is long.

If you have a cold, you should not take risks and self-medicate. For example, in the case of a cold, antibiotics will be useless, since they can only fight bacteria. And most colds are caused by various viruses. The best antiviral drugs have a broad spectrum. The doctor will prescribe broad-spectrum antiviral drugs, since determining which specific virus attacked the body is quite problematic.

What is the point of antiviral therapy?

A cold is not dangerous if the body has a strong immune system. But unfavorable ecology, stress, poor nutrition, bad habits, and chronic diseases weaken the immune system day after day. When an infection attacks the body, there can be two ways the situation can develop:

1. Strong immunity suppresses viruses, and the disease either does not begin or passes in a weak form.
2. If the immune system is weakened and there is no antiviral therapy, the disease develops in full force, intoxication of the body occurs, which leads to complications.

So, if you have a strong enough immune system, the doctor will limit itself to treating the symptoms. It is designed to reduce fever, detoxification and inflammation. If there is a suspicion that the immune system is weakened, it will be necessary to take effective antiviral drugs. Do not confuse them with antibacterial ones. After all, the latter can eliminate bacteria, but are powerless against viruses. Antiviral drugs are effective against flu and colds. Colds and flu can be caused by the following viruses:

• influenza virus A, B, C;
• reoviruses;
• paremyxoviruses;
• coronaviruses;
• adenoviruses;
• picornaviruses.

Antiviral drugs should not be ignored. They can make the disease not so long and severe, and protect against the development of complications. It is also advisable to take them if there is already a sick person in the house.

Antiviral agents

Many antiviral drugs are inexpensive but effective. These are medications that should be used to treat and prevent influenza and ARVI. Antiviral medications for colds are very effective. If you find out which antiviral drug is the most effective, there will be no exact answer. It all depends on the dose and the patient’s sensitivity to it.

ARVI and influenza are quite difficult to distinguish. These diseases have very similar symptoms. Only a doctor can correctly differentiate them.

The main differences between ARVI and influenza:

• First signs of illness
• Symptoms of the disease
• Character of fever and catarrhal symptoms
• Type of possible complications, etc.

Therefore, it is important to make a diagnosis not just based on examination and patient complaints, but also on the basis of laboratory tests. The doctor prescribes the necessary tests and only based on their results prescribes treatment.

An antiviral remedy for colds will help avoid complications. ARVI can manifest itself in different ways, depending on what virus you are exposed to. Unfortunately, we often underestimate ARVI and believe that such infections are not dangerous. In 20-30% they can lead to serious complications from the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. You need to be especially careful during periods of epidemic. Weak immune defense leads to complications. The immune system is unable to resist viruses and they begin to destroy the body without any obstacles. It is especially dangerous if the immune system has been weakened for a long time. Because of this, the body loses the ability to repel the attacks of infections; they operate with might and main, provoking all sorts of complications. One of these unpleasant and dangerous complications is post-viral asthenia syndrome (PAS). Out of ten cases, six patients may suffer from this syndrome. It appears in the first month after the disease.

SPA symptoms:

• Emotional disturbances, depression;
• Chronic fatigue;
• Mental disorders.

How can you treat influenza and ARVI?

A wide range of drugs are used to combat influenza or ARVI. These include all kinds of vaccines (inactivated and live), chemotherapy drugs, drugs for pathogenetic treatment and drugs for correcting immunity. But it is quite difficult to control how the flu will progress. This disease is very unpredictable and dangerous due to its complications. There are a lot of influenza viruses. How it will proceed depends on the specific strain and the general condition of the patient. What is important is the state of his immune system, whether there are chronic diseases, as well as the age and condition of the body. The flu causes the most severe complications in the elderly and children. The influenza virus is variable and can cause large-scale epidemics. But ARVI spreads through slightly different mechanisms. They are related to the socio-economic situation in the country, the state of the environment, allergic diseases, etc.

Now let's look in more detail at what groups of drugs can be used for acute respiratory viral infections and influenza.

Antiviral agents

Chemotherapy

Modern antiviral drugs of the antiviral group work as follows. Their goal is to suppress individual links that are responsible for the reproduction of viruses. They act selectively. The main thing is not to disrupt the vital activity of the cell itself. You just need to suppress the virus that has penetrated inside it. If a patient is diagnosed with a respiratory disease, then two types of drugs are used - M2 channel blockers, as well as neuroamindase inhibitors. Ribavirin may be used. This is a cheap antiviral drug that can cope with some types of viruses.

What drugs are M2 channel blockers?

The year 1961 was very important for the improvement of antiviral treatment. Amantadine was synthesized. This substance is capable of blocking special ion channels in the virus. Because of this, the virus lost its ability to penetrate cell walls. Also, the virus could not release the ribonucleoprotein. In the USSR, rimantadine began to be widely used. It is effective for the prevention and successful treatment of influenza, which is caused by virus A. The effectiveness of rimantadine was astounding - 70-90%. And the whole secret of success was that this substance slowed down viruses at an important stage of their penetration into the cell. But since the influenza virus changes very quickly, scientists soon noticed that in 30% of cases the virus is resistant to the drug.

The drug Rimantadine is available in tablets (50 mg) and syrup. The syrup is more suitable for children 1-7 years old. It is important to start taking the drug before the onset of the disease to avoid infection. For prevention, it is enough to drink it for about two weeks. If the disease has already attacked, then it is important to take the medicine in the early stages of the disease, as soon as the first symptoms make themselves known. In order not to provoke virus resistance to this drug, in case of illness you can drink it for no more than 5 days.

Neuroamindase inhibitors

If rimantadine is effective only against viruses A, then neuroaminidase inhibitors are able to counteract influenza viruses type A and B.

What lies behind this terrible and incomprehensible word “neuroamindase”? This is one of the important enzymes. With its help, the virus penetrates the cell. As is known from the school curriculum, viruses penetrate inside cell membranes and multiply there, weakening the host’s body and destroying its cells. When the synthesis of neuroamindase slows down, the virus is not able to disrupt the integrity of the cell and penetrate inside. Also, such a virus becomes less resistant to the action of our immunity. The human body has several barriers against viruses. One of them is a special secretion produced by the respiratory tract. Thanks to the action of neuroaminidase inhibitors, viruses become more susceptible to this secretion. Thanks to these inhibitors, the inflammatory local reaction stops its development. This means that the viral infection has a much weaker effect on the body. It will no longer provoke severe fever, loss of appetite, or muscle pain.

The effectiveness of such inhibitors, as studies have shown, ranges from 70 to 80%. Even if the virus has entered the body, the disease will last 1-2 days less in a milder form. But you need to take the inhibitor one or two days after the onset of symptoms. Once the disease has begun, after taking inhibitors, viral replication in cells will be reduced by about 3 days. At the same time, elevated temperature and more severe forms of influenza and ARVI were observed in only 15% of patients. It is very important that these drugs do not affect the nervous system. The only drawback of such inhibitors is that it is advisable to take them in the first two days after infection with the virus. But doctors sometimes need more time to determine an accurate diagnosis.

Neuroamidase inhibitors include the following drugs: zanamivir, oseltamivir. Azintomivir is an antiviral drug that is the active ingredient in the well-known Tamiflu. It is taken for 5 days at 75-125 mg twice a day. If the drug is taken for prophylaxis, it is prescribed 1-2 times a day, 75 mg. The course of preventive treatment is 4-6 weeks. If the patient's creatinine clearance is less than 30 ml/min, then the dose should be halved. This is why it is so important that the treatment is supervised by a doctor. After all, patients often cannot remember even the name. Azintomivir, azektomivir, ozitamivir - the antiviral drug is the same. Its correct name is azintomivir.

Zanamivir is better known as Relenza. It is an analogue of sialic acid. It is taken using a special inhalation device. For treatment, the drug is prescribed twice a day, 10 mg. (interval – 12 hours). Treatment lasts 5 days. Why is inhalation used to administer the drug? This method has a number of important advantages. This method provides quick results.

This group of drugs has a fairly good reputation. They practically do not lead to adverse reactions. Their share is extremely small and amounts to only 1.5%. This may be diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, sinusitis, headache. Very rarely, bronchospasm was observed in patients with pulmonary diseases.

Medicines that help fight other viruses

In addition to influenza and ARVI, viruses can cause a number of other diseases. For example, Ribavirin (Rebetol, Virazol) is used against such viruses. It is capable of influencing a number of viruses. Ribavirin can be used in aerosol form. It is used to fight infections caused by the RS virus. It is believed that this drug may slow down the early entry of the virus into cells. It disrupts the synthesis of messenger RNA and ribonucleoproteins and blocks RNA polymerase. A nebulizer is used for its inhalation administration. But this drug is administered only in a hospital and only as prescribed by a doctor.

Ribavirin should be taken with caution. It can provoke a rash and bronchospasm. The drug may also irritate the eyes, even of healthcare workers. Quite rarely, after taking it, patients experienced insomnia, leukopenia, and increased irritability. There is a possibility that the drug will crystallize in the respiratory tract. Ribavirin has a teratogenic effect.

The United States has recently developed a new antiviral drug that is considered very promising. It was called Plenoconaril. Animal experiments and in vitro studies have shown that it is indeed active against rhinoviruses and enteroviruses. When studies were conducted using placebo and Plenoconaril, the results were pleasantly surprising. The drug has shown effectiveness against enteroviral meningitis and various respiratory infections.

In Russia there is a lot of domestic research that formed the basis for the production of original antiviral agents. The most famous is Arbidol. This drug slows down viruses types A and B, as well as a number of other respiratory viruses. But the mechanism of its action is not fully understood. The drug is believed to have the property of inducing interferon and modulating immunity. Arbidol is capable, for example, of making phagocytic cells more active. The tablet contains 0.1 mg of the drug. For treatment, take 0.2 mg 3-4 times a day. The course of treatment is 3-5 days. For prevention, the daily dose will be 0.2 mg. The course of treatment is 10-14 days.

Preparations containing interferon

Interferons (IFNs) are also used for prevention and antiviral treatment. They are able to regulate the state of immunity. Interferons are produced in our body by different cells. They are responsible for protecting our body from all kinds of viruses, as well as for regulating the reactions of the immune system.

Effects of drugs that contain interferon:

1. antiproliferative;
2. antimicrobial;
3. radioprotective;
4. immunomodulatory.

Viruses are very diverse, but despite this, IFNs can effectively inhibit their reproduction process. This occurs at the stage through which any virus passes when it enters the host's body. This is the stage of so-called translation, when the virus synthesizes its specific proteins. That is why interferon is able to suppress the activity of various viruses. This is a universal remedy that nature gave to our body. When interferon starts working, the body increases the activity of its natural killer cells.

To successfully treat viral infections, two types of interferons are used: α- and β. But interferon alone cannot defeat viruses. It is advisable to combine drugs that contain interferon with chemotherapy.

Betaferon or β-interferon is produced in bottles that contain powder (9.5 million units of INF). To treat influenza, the drug can be sprayed into the nose or instilled. You need to use the drug at least 4-5 times a day. Leukocyte human interferon is used to treat ARVI and influenza, as well as a number of other viral diseases. It is synthesized by donors' blood leukocytes as a response to the virus. The result is a mixture of several interferons at once. It is better to administer the drug by inhalation or instill an aqueous solution into the nose.

Quite often, doctors prescribe Viferon. This is recombinant interferon α 2b. When an infection enters the body, it damages cell membranes. This significantly reduces the ability of interferon to counteract the virus. To stabilize cell membranes, Viferon included ascorbic acid and tocopherol acetate. These substances have a positive effect on the integrity of cell membranes; they are antioxidants. They enhance interferon activity by 10-14 times. Viferon is also available in the form of candles. It is believed that they better ensure the penetration of the drug into the blood, where it circulates for a longer time. Viferon is allowed to be used even for the treatment of newborns. Viferon-1 is available for children under one year of age. For older children and adults – Viferon-2.

Drugs that induce interferon

Interferon preparations can be combined with its inducers. There are quite a lot of such drugs. They can be synthetic or natural, high or low molecular weight. All of them are similar in that they can stimulate the production of the body’s own interferon. This interferon is called endogenous. In this case, various cells and tissues work: epithelium, macrophages, leukocytes, liver tissue, spleen, lungs and even brain. Such drugs can easily penetrate nuclear structures and cytoplasm. Their task is to activate the production of “early” interferon. Interferon inducers can enhance immunity. Let's look at a few drugs.

Amiksin known from advertising. This is an inductor of a synthetic nature. It is low molecular weight and belongs to the class of fluorenones. Amiksin is capable of inducing the production of endogenous interferon in patients. As soon as Amiksin enters the body, intestinal cells react to its administration. Interferon begins to be produced in leukocytes. Within 4-24 hours after the drug enters the body, maximum interferon production is observed. It is first produced by the intestines, then by the liver, and finally by the blood. It is best to take Amiksin in the first hours of the onset of the disease. For a full course, 5-6 tablets will be enough. For prevention, Amiksin is taken once a week. The course will be 4-6 weeks.

Cycloferon– low molecular weight inducer of IFN-α. Thanks to this, it has a wide spectrum of biological activity. It appears in cells quite quickly and accumulates in the cytoplasm and nucleus. Cycloferon also quickly penetrates into the blood. It binds weakly to blood proteins. But it is widely distributed in organs, tissues and biological fluids. Cycloferon is a low molecular weight drug. Therefore, it manages to quickly overcome the blood-brain barrier and stimulate the process of IFN formation in the brain. Cycloferon leaves the body fairly quickly. Within 24 hours, the kidneys excrete 99% of the drug unchanged. Patients tolerate this drug quite well. It is prescribed on the first day of the onset of the disease.

Ridostin– another IFN inducer. It is high molecular weight and of natural origin. It is a double helix RNA obtained from killer yeast lysate. If you use Ridostin systematically, you can effectively stimulate the production of early IFN. It was noted that after administration of this drug, IFN accumulates maximum in the blood plasma after 6-8 hours. It is no longer detectable in the bloodstream a day after the injection.

Ridostin has been observed to have a pronounced immune modulating effect. It stimulates the production of stem cells in the bone marrow and increases the level of hormones (corticosteroids).

Another drug in this group is Dibazol. It was widely and successfully used, but recently new products have begun to supplant it. They started to forget about Dibazol, and in vain. This is an effective means of preventing and treating influenza and ARVI. It is quite active in terms of modulating immunity and stimulates the production of interferon in patients.

There are also complex drugs that can fight influenza and ARVI. They can often be seen in advertising: Fervex, Grippostad, Teraflu, Rinza. They are quite capable of helping in the fight against the disease. Products for local and external use are also quite effective. For example, Doctor Mom, cold balm, Tussamag.

So, there is a whole range of drugs to fight viruses. But it is very important that they are chosen by the attending physician, and not by the patient himself. You should not consult with your family, friends or try out new pharmaceutical products. Give your doctor a chance to quickly cure your illness. Only he will be able to thoughtfully choose effective treatment tactics, taking into account the test results and the patient’s complaints. It is also important to start treatment in a timely manner, without wasting precious time. It is quite possible that an antiviral remedy for colds, inexpensive but effective, will help you avoid many complications.

Source: grippe.su

Diseases caused by viruses require treatment with special antiviral agents. Such drugs are Cycloferon and Remantadine. In Russia, Cycloferon is considered a vital medicine. In 2007, the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences classified Remantadine as an obsolete drug, but it is used in the Russian Federation.

Release forms, composition of Cycloferon

Cycloferon is produced in Russia and has antiviral, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory activity. Being low molecular weight interferon inducer, in the early stages suppresses the reproduction of the virus, enhances the protective properties of the sick person’s body against viral, bacterial and fungal infections.

The active substance of this drug is methylglucamine acridone acetate - acridone acetic acid. The drug is available in tablet form. One yellow, film-coated tablet contains 150 mg of the active ingredient and auxiliary formative substances.

Cycloferon is produced in the form of a solution in ampoules for intramuscular and intravenous injections. The concentration of acridoneacetic acid in the yellow solution of one ampoule is 125 mg/ml, the excipient is water for injection. Also, liniment with a 5% acridone acetic acid content was released, in 30 ml tubes, for external use.

The shelf life of the medicines is: tablet form - 2 years. ampoules - 5 years. liniment - 2 years. Price range, on average, from 300 to 400 rubles for 20 tablets, for 5 ampoules, for 30 ml of liniment.

The antiviral drug Remantadine is produced in Russia and Latvia. It is effective in the treatment of influenza type A in the early stages, herpes viruses type I and II, and tick-borne encephalitis viruses. Used for preventive purposes. Has an immunomodulatory effect. When used for influenza type B, it has an antitoxic effect.

The active ingredient of Remantadine is rimantadine hydrochloride.

Russian drugs are produced in the form of white tablets with a rimantadine concentration of 50 mg. Latvian drugs are presented in the form of capsules and tablets with active substance concentrations of 100 mg and 50 mg, respectively. Excipients play a formative role. Remantadine is not produced in other forms.

Shelf life of the medicinal product - 5 years. Price for 20 tablets from a Russian manufacturer - 50-100 rubles. The same Latvian medicine costs from 150 to 300 rubles for 10 capsules or 20 tablets.

Virus destruction mechanisms

Cycloferon and Remantadine are used to treat viral infectious diseases. Each drug is used in the treatment of those infections that it copes with more effectively. A virus is not a full-fledged organism. To reproduce, it needs a cell from the human body. Penetrating inside and infecting it, the virus forces the production of its offspring, which infect other healthy cells.

The mechanism of action of Cycloferon on viruses is that when it enters the body of a sick person:

1. It pushes a person’s own immunity to additional production of interferons, cell protectors. A kind of barrier is created around healthy cells, through which the virus cannot penetrate. There will not be an excess of them, since there is a regulatory mechanism.
2. At the same time, the drug penetrates infected cells, blocking and suppressing the reproduction of viral particles. The result of such actions is the liberation of the cell from viral “slavery.” Defective particles of the virus, which have become safe due to the influence of the drug, are removed from it. The body utilizes them.

The effect of Remantadine on viral infection is effective only at an early stage of the disease. Since rimantadine blocks the virus in vacuoles (shells surrounding virus particles), it prevents it from connecting with the cytoplasm of the cell. It inhibits the exit of the cell with the penetrated virus and interrupts the transcription of the viral genome. Through the joint efforts of the immune system and medicine, the virus is destroyed.

If the virus has time to begin intensive reproduction, more than 24-48 hours have passed since the moment of illness, then primary treatment with this antiviral agent is useless.

Since rimantadine, due to its structural structure, can circulate in the body for a long time, increasing the activity of lymphocytes, provoking the synthesis of its own interferons, it can be used for preventive purposes.

Comparison of antivirals

How are Cycloferon and Remantadine the same?

• Common diseases that both antiviral drugs treat are: influenza type A at an early stage, ARVI, herpes infection, tick-borne encephalitis. These medications are also used to prevent diseases.
• Contraindications for which both drugs cannot be used are: individual intolerance to the components of the drugs, pregnancy and lactation, cirrhosis or acute liver diseases. Use with caution for gastrointestinal diseases. For thyrotoxicosis, prescribe medications under the supervision of an endocrinologist.
• It is possible to use both drugs together, at the same time, in the treatment of severe viral infections.

Cycloferon has its own additional list of viral, bacterial, fungal infections, the treatment of which takes place with the mandatory use of the drug in complex therapy or monotherapy:

1. HIV diseases in adults, children in stages 2A-2B.
2. Viral hepatitis A, B, C, D in adults and children.
3. Cytomegalovirus infections.
4. Neuroinfections such as serous meningitis.
5. Chlamydial infections.
6. Rheumatic and systemic disorders, these include systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis.
7. Diseases of the joints of a degenerative-dystrophic nature.

Antiviral agents differ in their release form. In addition to tablets, Cycloferon is presented in ampoules with injection solution and liniment. The doctor has the opportunity to make a replacement if the patient’s body does not accept one of the forms. Remantadine is available only in tablet form.

The difference is in the age limit; Cycloferon is for children from 4 years of age. Remantadine can be used to treat children from 7 years of age.

Cycloferon has no additional contraindications or side effects other than those indicated in the general list. Driving is permitted while being treated with the drug.

Taking Remantadine is contraindicated in acute kidney disease; it can cause an increase in bilirubin in the blood and impair concentration. Therefore, driving is prohibited.

Patients with arterial hypertension, epilepsy, cerebral atherosclerosis are at risk. When using an antiviral drug, negative consequences are possible.

Simultaneous use of Remantadine with adsorbents, paracetamol, astringents and enveloping agents, aspirin reduces its absorption by the body. This interaction makes the use of this tool useless.

Taking antiviral medications

Antiviral drugs are taken according to the regimens prescribed by the doctor. Only a specialist will take into account all the individual characteristics of the patient: concomitant diseases, age, contraindications, interaction of the drug with other prescribed medications, the severity of the viral infection.

Instructions for use of antiviral medications provide general dosage regimens. So, Remantadine should be taken after meals with water.

1. The first day of taking the medicine is 300 mg. Can be taken at one time or divided into 3.
2. The next three days - 100 mg in the morning and evening.
3. The fourth and fifth days - 100 mg once.

For children, dosage and regimens are prescribed by a doctor depending on age.

When using the drug to prevent type A influenza, take 1 tablet once a day for 30 days. For children over 7 years old, it is enough to take 1 tablet once a day for 15 days. If you are bitten by a tick, taking 2 tablets in the morning and evening for 3 days will help.

Cycloferon is taken orally once a day, half an hour before meals.

Standard scheme:

• Adults, children over 12 years old - 3-4 tablets at a time.
• Children from 7 to 12 years old - 2-3 tablets at a time.
• Children from 4 to 7 years old - 1 tablet once.

A course of treatment no more than 10 days. It all depends on the type and severity of the viral infectious disease. The doctor may prescribe a different dosage of the medicine and not take it every day. He will select the most effective treatment regimen with Cycloferon.

Injections of the drug according to the basic regimen are done once a day, every other day, but for a specific disease, only a different regimen can be effective. Therefore, only a medical specialist can prescribe the correct dosages and treatment regimens.

Liniment is applied 1-2 times a day in the form of instillations, applicators, tampons or applying it to the affected areas of the skin and mucous membranes. Course duration is up to half a month. Repeated use is possible after a two-week break.

What to choose for treatment

To summarize what has been said, it should be noted that Cycloferon is preferable for the treatment of viral infections. It has no side effects, the list of contraindications is standard, less than Remantadine, and does not interact with other medications taken. Age restrictions from 4 years, against 7 years for the opponent. Using the drug for treatment in the safest form (replacing tablets with injections for gastrointestinal problems).

It will be safer to trust the choice of medicine by a doctor, since he will be able to correctly assess the type and severity of the viral infection, the individual characteristics of the patient, concomitant diseases, and contraindications. An incorrectly selected drug, at best, can be useless, at worst, it can harm the patient.