The most effective antiviral drugs are inexpensive. Inexpensive but effective antivirals - a list for children and adults. What drugs to take with influenza and ARVI for immunomodulation and effects on viruses

Viral infections are a broad class of infectious pathologies and tumors caused by various viruses. Viral diseases are widespread throughout the world. They affect all age categories of the population, are characterized by a high degree of contagiousness (contagiousness) and can affect all organs and systems of the body.

Antiviral drugs are used to treat viral diseases. Depending on the spectrum of activity, antiviral agents are:

• anti-influenza;
• antiherpetic;
• anticytomegalovirus;
• antiretrovirals (antiviral medicines used to treat HIV infection);
• extended spectrum of antiviral activity (isoprinosine ®).

Separately classified drugs used to treat viral hepatitis (sofosbuvir ® , isoprinosine ® , narlaprevir ® , ritonavir ® , peginterferons, ribavirin ® , lamivudine ® , etc.).

Depending on the location of the viral infection, an antiviral ointment for the skin or eyes, tablets, syrups, antiviral agents for parenteral administration, etc. can be used.

According to the chemical structure, antiviral agents can be:

• synthetic;
• vegetable;
• endogenous or genetically engineered interferons.

How do antivirals work?

All viruses are non-cellular life forms, so they can only reproduce inside the cells of the host organism.

After the overflow of the affected cell with viral particles, it dies, and the released viruses massively infect other cells. Moreover, each viral particle is capable of reproducing a huge amount of the virus.

Depending on the mechanism of action, antiviral agents can affect the virus at any time during its division (reproduction), however, most drugs destroy the virus by blocking the synthesis of its deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA).

Due to this, antiviral agents can be effectively used not only for the treatment of viral infections, but also for their prevention.

What antiviral drugs are most effective in ARVI and influenza

Antivirals for adults with colds and flu are effective in the first two, maximum three for after the onset of the disease. A later start of the use of antiviral agents is ineffective.

For the treatment of influenza, drugs can be used:

• M-2 channel blockers (rimantadine ® preparations are inexpensive but effective antiviral drugs for adults and children over seven years old);

• neuraminidase inhibitors (oseltamivir®, zanamivir® preparations);
• fusion inhibitors (arbidol®);
• imidazolylethanamide pentanedioic acid ();
• interferons and interferon inducers.

List of antiviral drugs for ARVI and influenza in alphabetical order:

• Algirem ® ;
• Grippferon ® ;
• Orvirem ® ;
• antiviral ointments (Oxolin ® , Viferon-ointment ®);
• Cytovir-3 ® syrup, etc.

For flu and colds, combined agents that do not have an antiviral effect, but have anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic, vasoconstrictive and antiallergic effects can also be used:

• AntiFlu ® ;
• Influnet ® ;
• Coldrex ® ;
• Prostudox ® ;
• etc.

A brief description of the main drugs against flu and colds

The most effective antiviral agent for adults and children with influenza is rimantadine ® .

Remantadine (rimantadine) tablets from OlainFarm ®

The cost of a pack of tablets (20 pieces) of 50 milligrams is:

• 64 rubles (production of the Russian company Biosynthesis ®);
• 81 rubles (produced by Irbitsky KhFZ ®);
• 103 rubles (Tatkhimfarmpreparaty ®).

Kagocel ®

The product is produced by the Russian pharmaceutical company Nearmedic Plus ® . The cost of packaging (10 tablets of 12 milligrams) is 240 rubles.

Kagocel ® belongs to the group of synthetic interferon synthesis inducers. The agent has a pronounced antimicrobial, antiviral, immunostimulating and radioprotective effect. Kagocel ® is able to stimulate the processes of synthesizing the body's own interferons and other protective proteins.

The production of interferons by intestinal tissues reaches a maximum within four hours after taking the drug. It should be noted that high levels of protective proteins in the blood may persist for five days after the end of Kagocel ® .

The drug is well tolerated by patients and rarely causes undesirable effects from treatment. The maximum effectiveness of taking the drug is observed when prescribing it in the first three days (no later than the fourth day) of the disease.

Indications for the use of Kagocel ® are the treatment and prevention of acute respiratory viral infections and influenza, as well as herpes infections. As part of complex therapy, Kagocel ® can be used in the treatment of urogenital chlamydia.

The tool is not used to treat:

• pregnant and breastfeeding;
• patients with individual intolerance to the components;
• children under six years of age (if necessary, the drug can be used after three years).

Antiviral drugs during pregnancy and breastfeeding

All antiviral drugs during pregnancy should be prescribed only by the attending physician. Self-medication is unacceptable and can harm not only the health of the woman herself, but also the unborn baby. It must be understood that all antibacterial, antiviral, etc. drugs during pregnancy should be used only when absolutely necessary and strictly as directed by a doctor.

A good antiviral drug used for influenza and approved during pregnancy is Arbidol ® .

Arbidol ® is produced by the Russian pharmaceutical company Pharmstandard ® . The cost of packing 10 tablets is 240 rubles.

The mechanism of action of Arbidol is based on its ability to inhibit the activity of influenza viruses. Also, the drug stimulates the synthesis of its own interferons by the body and increases the body's resistance to viral diseases (in this regard, if necessary, the drug can be used to prevent influenza in the midst of an epidemic).

Indications for the use of Arbidol ® are the treatment and prevention of acute respiratory viral infections and influenza, as well as complex therapy in patients older than 2 years.

Contraindications to the use of the drug are children under two years of age, the presence of individual intolerance to the drug, as well as severe pathologies of the kidneys, liver and decompensated diseases of the cardiovascular system.

During pregnancy, the drug can be used as prescribed by a doctor. Antiviral drugs during breastfeeding are also used after consulting a doctor. In some cases, a temporary cessation of breastfeeding may be recommended.

If necessary, during pregnancy and lactation, antiviral ointments can be used:

Due to the low degree of absorption into the systemic circulation, these drugs do not affect the fetus.

Antiviral ointments and suppositories

The most common antiviral ointments are:

• Oxolinic ointment ® (70 rubles -10 grams);
• ointment Viferon ® (160 rubles - 12 grams);
• Panavir ® (130 rubles -3 grams, 750 rubles -30 grams).

Oxolinic ointment ® can be used for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes. Its antiviral activity is realized by protecting cells from the penetration of viruses into them.

Oxolinic ointment ® can be used for the prevention of influenza, the treatment of viral rhinitis, viral dermatoses (simple and herpes zoster, warts, molluscum contagiosum, etc.), viral keratitis and keratoconjunctivitis.

Viferon ointment ®

The human recombinant interferon alpha 2, which is part of the drug, has high antiviral, immunomodulatory and antiproliferative activity.

Due to the low systemic absorption, the ointment can be used to treat pregnant and lactating women, as well as children older than 1 year of age.

A contraindication to the appointment of the ointment is the individual intolerance of its components.

Indications for its appointment are herpetic infections of the skin and mucous membranes, as well as the complex treatment of acute respiratory viral infections and influenza.

Ointment Panavir ®

Panavir ® is able to increase the degree of nonspecific resistance of the body to viral agents, as well as to stimulate the synthesis of its own interferons. Also, the ointment is able to protect cells from the penetration of the virus and increase the viability of cells that are already affected by viruses.

The drug can be used to treat viral dermatoses, papillomavirus infection, chronic and recurrent herpetic infections,.

Panavir ® is not used for the treatment of children under 12 years of age, pregnant and lactating women, patients with severe pathologies of the liver, kidneys and spleen, as well as persons with individual intolerance to the components of this agent.

Rectal and vaginal antiviral suppositories

Vaginal suppositories:

• Panavir ® ;
• Genferon ® .

Rectal:

• Viferon ® ;
• Genferon ® ;
• Panavir ® .

Candles rectal and vaginal Genferon ®

The drug is a combination of taurine and interferon. Due to this, suppositories are able to have antiviral, antibacterial, immunomodulatory, regenerating, reparative, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and mild analgesic effects.

The cost of packaging (10 candles) - 750 rubles.

The drug can be used to treat infections of the genitourinary system (as part of complex therapy): herpes infections, ureaplasmosis, trichomoniasis, human papillomavirus infection, bartholinitis, cervical erosion, balanitis, etc.

Contraindications to the use of suppositories are the first trimester of pregnancy and individual intolerance to the components of the drug.

Antivirals for HPV

For the treatment of diseases caused by the human papillomavirus, the following can be used:

• suppositories, ampoules and Panavir ® gel (as part of complex therapy);
• suppositories Genferon ® (as part of complex therapy);
• suppositories Viferon ® (as part of complex therapy);
• Isoprinosine ® ;
• Allokin-Alpha ® in ampoules;
• Spray Epigen-Intim ® ;
• Tablets Likopid ® .

Isoprinosine has the greatest proven effect on HPV. It has a significant antiviral and immunostimulating effect. In addition to HPV, it can be used to treat viral hepatitis B and C, severe herpetic infections, chronic infections of the respiratory and urinary system, and also as part of complex therapy for various immunodeficiencies.

In the treatment of HPV, Isoprinosine ® is combined with Panavir ® , Genferon ® , etc.

New generation antiviral drugs for herpes

The most commonly used antiviral drug for herpetic infections is Acyclovir ® . The product is different:

• high efficiency against herpes viruses type 1 and 2, as well as the Zoster virus (causes shingles);
• good tolerance;
• low cost.

The disadvantage of the tool is the need to use it 4-5 times a day, as well as the development of resistance of herpes viruses to acyclovir ® with its frequent use.

In this regard, if necessary, antiviral tablets for herpes of a new generation - Valaciclovir ® can be used.

Valaciclovir preparations (Valtrex ® , Vairova ® , Valtsikon ® , etc.) are more effective and active against cytomegalovirus infection. They do not develop resistance and can be applied 2-3 times a day. However, all valacyclovir preparations are quite expensive (from 700 rubles per pack).

In severe herpetic infections can be used:

• famciclovir preparations ();
• Foscarnet;
• preparations of interferons and interferon inducers (as part of complex therapy).

Also, in addition to taking acyclovir or valacyclovir tablets, antiherpetic ointments (Acyclovir® ointment) can be prescribed.

Folk antiviral agents

Folk antiviral agents are not used as the main method of treatment.

Herbal preparations and infusions do not have the necessary antiviral effect on viruses and can only be used as additional immunostimulating and strengthening agents.

Herbs are antiviral

Infusions, tablet supplements with Echinacea and Eleutherococcus have a strengthening and stimulating effect on the body. Infusions of licorice root, St. John's wort, oregano, chamomile, lemon balm, wormwood, ginger (in the absence of allergic manifestations).

Before using folk antiviral agents, you must familiarize yourself with the list of contraindications for use. It should also be taken into account that many herbal preparations strictly prohibited during pregnancy.

In the cold season, colds lie in wait everywhere. Influenza, rhinoviruses and enteroviruses, herpes and respiratory syncytial virus - antiviral tablets will help to cope with them. Their use will reduce symptoms and prevent the virus from multiplying, eliminating the disease in a matter of days.

Available pills are effective in the treatment of viral diseases

Benefits of Antiviral Tablets

The tablet form of antiviral agents has several important benefits before injections, suppositories, powders and potions.

1. Ease of use: tablets can be carried with you and taken on a schedule.
2. Absence of pain and local reactions - redness, burning, swelling.
3. Efficiency: Tablets and capsules are absorbed a little longer, but have a stronger effect and last longer than powders and syrups.
4. Price: Pill medicines are inexpensive and do not require consumables or nurse fees.

Classification of antiviral agents

All antiviral drugs can be divided into 5 large groups:

• anti-influenza drugs, in which M2-channel blockers and inhibitors of viral neuraminidase are isolated;
• antiretroviral drugs used for HIV infection;
• tablets with an extended spectrum of activity;
• antiherpetic and anticytomegalovirus agents.

The last 2 groups are often combined: the drugs in them have a similar spectrum of activity and indications, therefore they can be used to treat both infections.

List of influenza tablets

Antiviral drugs used against influenza and SARS are divided into M2-channel blockers and neuraminidase inhibitors.

1. Group I blocks the ion channels of viral particles, preventing the DNA of the virus from splitting and preventing it from multiplying.
2. Group II blocks the synthesis of neuraminidase, which helps the removal of the virus from infected cells and prevents its further reproduction.

There are only 4 active ingredients with proven efficacy used in influenza - M2-channel blockers amantadine and rimantadine, as well as neuraminidase inhibitors oseltamivir and zanamivir. The latter drug is produced in Russia only in the form of a powder, so it will not be considered.

Amantadine derivative, M2 channel blocker. 1 tablet contains 50 or 100 mg of rimantadine. Treatment occurs by inhibiting viral DNA prior to initial RNA transcription. It is used in the treatment and prevention of influenza, as well as tick-borne encephalitis.

The appearance of the box in the photo:

Packaging of Remantadine tablets

Contraindications: diseases of the liver and kidneys, pregnancy, thyrotoxicosis.

Release form: 10 tablets or capsules in a blister, 1 or 2 blisters in a pack.

Price: 70-230 rubles.

Means based on oseltamivir, in one capsule - 75 mg of the active substance. Neuraminidase inhibitor, blocks and inhibits the growth of the virus in the body. It is used for influenza type A and B, with the appearance of typical symptoms: cough, runny nose, headache, fever.

The drug Tamiflu blocks the action of the virus in the body

Contraindications: renal failure, intolerance to oseltamivir.

Release form: 10 tablets in a blister, 1 blister in a pack.

Price: 1200-1250 rubles.

cheap pills Russian production blocking M2 channels. The active substance is amantadine, 100 mg of the drug in 1 tablet. A viral DNA inhibitor used to treat influenza and SARS, as well as Parkinson's disease.

Midantan - affordable Russian tablets

Contraindications: glaucoma, hypotension, pregnancy, epilepsy, psychosis.

Release form: 100 tablets in a dark glass jar.

Price: 120-125 rubles.

Overview of antiherpetic and anticytomegalovirus agents

Anti-herpetic, or "cold," drugs include nucleoside analogues. These drugs block the synthesis of viral DNA and prevent it from doubling. Thus, the herpes virus cannot reproduce and dies. Anticytomegalovirus drugs work on the same principle.

The cost of these funds depends on the active substance: more modern and powerful drugs are 4-5 times more expensive than outdated analogues, but their use is advisable only with a stable strain of the virus.

A drug with the same active ingredient, in one tablet - 200 or 400 mg of acyclovir. Inhibits DNA synthesis, disrupting the reproduction of the virus in the body. The medicine is used for herpes, incl. genital, with herpes zoster, chickenpox and immunodeficiency states.

Famvir is based on the substance famciclovir.

Contraindications: hypersensitivity to the components of the drug and penciclovir.

Presentation: 10 tablets with a dosage of 125 mg, 21 tablets with a dosage of 250 mg.

Price: 1540-4230 rubles.

Zovirax is based on the substance acyclovir

Contraindications: hypersensitivity to the active substance, age up to 3 years.

Release form: 25 tablets in a carton.

Price: 490-540 rubles.

Good and strong antiherpetic pills. The active substance is valacyclovir, 1 tablet contains a dose of 500 mg. Blocks the synthesis of viral DNA, preventing viruses from spreading. It is used for herpes zoster, cytomegalovirus infection, relapses of skin and mucous diseases caused by the herpes virus.

Valtrex helps in the treatment of herpes and lichen

Contraindications: hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.

Release form: 10 or 42 tablets per pack.

Price: 1200-3250 rubles.

List of pills for HIV

Antiretroviral drugs are immunomodulatory drugs used to prevent and treat HIV. They are not able to cure the infection, but reduce the symptoms of its manifestation and protect the immune system of the infected person.

ARVs are subdivided into nucleoside and non-nucleoside HIV reverse transcriptase inhibitors, protease and integrase inhibitors, receptor and fusion inhibitors. The drugs of these groups act differently, but they all prevent the virus from mutating and modifying RNA.

HIV protease inhibitor, 1 tablet contains 100 mg of ritonavir. Selectively inhibits viral DNA. Suitable for adults and children over 4 years of age with HIV infection, to achieve the effect, it is necessary to take 600 mg of the substance at a time.

Ritonavir is used for HIV infection

Contraindications: hypersensitivity to components.

Release form: 60 tablets in a plastic jar.

Price: 1300-2250 rubles.

Abacavir

Nucleoside inhibitor of HIV reverse transcriptase, analogue of guanine. In 1 tablet - 300 mg of the active ingredient of the same name. Causes RNA chain termination, stopping virus replication. It is used during combination therapy and in the prevention of human immunodeficiency virus.

Contraindications: liver disease, age under 3 months, lactation.

Release form: 10 capsules in a blister, 6 blisters in a cardboard box.

Price: 980-2100 rubles.

The first antiretroviral drug, analogue of thymidine. 1 capsule contains 100 mg of zidovudine. Inhibits HIV reverse transcriptase, destroying the virus and preventing it from multiplying. It is used in the complex therapy of HIV infection, as well as as a method of protecting the fetus from HIV infection if the mother is infected.

Zidovudine is an effective antiviral drug

Contraindications: anemia, leukopenia, hypersensitivity.

Release form: 10 capsules in a blister, 1 blister in a pack.

Price: 685-1800 rubles.

Broad Spectrum Tablets

Extended-spectrum drugs include early and late immune-stimulating interferons, as well as synthetic nucleoside analogues, which are used in the fight against hepatitis and various types of fevers.

Sometimes this group includes antiviral drugs of plant origin, such as Anaferon, Hyporamine and Ergoferon lozenges. Official medicine does not recognize these remedies: homeopathic medicines have not confirmed their effectiveness in any study.

The best cold pills, a broad-spectrum drug. In 1 tablet - 12 mg of the active ingredient of the same name. Synthesizes in the body the so-called. "late interferon", which fights infection over the next 4-5 days. It is used for influenza and SARS in adults and children, treats herpes.

Kagocel is a broad-spectrum drug

Contraindications: age under 6 years, pregnancy.

Release form: 10 tablets in a blister. 1 blister per pack.

Price: 210-260 rubles.

Cycloferon

A fast-acting drug from Russian manufacturers used for herpes and acute forms of influenza. The active substance is meglumine acridone acetate, 1 tablet contains 150 mg. Synthesizes interferon, suppresses the reproduction of the virus on early dates infections, boosts immunity. Suitable for adults and children over 4 years old. Early age may interfere with swallowing the pill.

Release form: 10 tablets in a blister, from 1 to 5 blisters per pack.

Price: 180-210 rubles.

Modern and safe tablets, the active substance is pentanedioic acid imidazolylethanamide. Children's tablets contain 60 mg, adults - 90 mg in each tablet. Suppresses the reproduction of the virus during the nuclear phase, is used to treat influenza and SARS.

Ingavirin is a modern antiviral drug

Contraindications: individual intolerance to the drug.

Release form: 7 tablets per pack.

Price: 420-510 rubles.

Effective Soviet immunoboosting pills. The active substance is hydroxyethylammonium methylphenoxyacetate, contained in an amount of 200 mg per tablet. Stimulates the production of interferons, strengthening the immune system. It is used with reduced immunity, to increase physical and mental performance, with hypoxia and hypothermia, alcoholism.

Trekrezan - immunoboosting tablets

Contraindications: age under 12 years, lactose intolerance.

Release form: 10 tablets in a blister, 1 or 2 blisters in a pack. It can also be produced in a glass jar, 50 tablets each.

Price: 250-520 rubles.

An agent with a wide spectrum of activity that fights viruses that affect DNA and RNA. The active substance is ribavirin, in 1 tablet - 200 mg. It is used for hepatitis C, Lassa fever and hemorrhagic fever. The pharmacological action has not yet been fully established.

Ribavirin is a broad-spectrum drug

Contraindications: pregnancy, anemia, renal failure.

Release form: 10 tablets in a blister, 3 or 6 blisters in a pack.

Price: 210-390 rubles.

Any viral infection can greatly harm your health and tie you to bed for a long time. Taking suitable antiviral agents will not only speed up recovery, but also help to avoid complications of acute respiratory viral infections, herpes, influenza, as well as become an HIV prevention or help strengthen immunity.

Antiviral drugs for colds are the main tool in the fight against this category of ailments.

As you know, during the period of activation of colds, it is better to engage in their prevention, and not bring them to states where treatment is already necessary. Activating the immune system in the cold season is the most effective measure to protect yourself from colds. Then the disease will not develop, or at least the situation will not become severe.

If the disease is of a viral nature - an acute respiratory viral disease (ARVI) - then treatment is indispensable here. And best of all in this case, antiviral drugs cope with the problem. The essence of their action is in the impact on the virus itself, which is an etiological factor.

Antiviral drugs are used to treat SARS and influenza. These drugs interfere with the replication of the virus in such a way as to stop it from multiplying. Antiviral drugs have a synthetic base or a natural one. They are used both in the fight against the disease and for its prevention. Different stages of the common cold can be affected by antiviral drugs. Today modern science knows about five hundred pathogens of different types of colds. There are few antiviral drugs to combat them.

Basically, viral diseases are treated with three types of drugs:

• broad spectrum flu medicines;
• drugs for the treatment of herpes infections.
• means for combating cytomegalovirus.

In the case of a severe form of the disease, antiviral drugs are taken, with a mild form, the use of interferons is acceptable. Within a day and a half after the onset of the first symptoms, it is urgent to start taking an antiviral drug. If the virus is allowed to multiply to such an extent that it colonizes the entire body, then it can be brought to the point that taking medications will not have any effect.

The effect of antiviral drugs in colds

With the help of antiviral drugs, the causes of the onset and development of acute respiratory disease are eliminated. The results of this action are:

• reducing the risk of exacerbations of chronic diseases (chronic bronchitis, bronchial asthma, etc.);
• shortening the duration of the course of a cold by several days, alleviating its symptoms;
• reducing the risk that severe complications will appear after an acute respiratory illness.

Antiviral drugs for colds are also used as an emergency prophylaxis in the event that a family member is ill and it is necessary to reduce the risk of infection of healthy people.

Antiviral pills for colds

In the class where there are synthetic antiviral drugs that do a good job with the influenza virus, there are two groups of effective drugs. The essence of the action of M-channel blockers is to block the virus so that it cannot enter the cells and multiply. One of the proven drugs against viruses in this category is Amantadine (Midantan), as well as Rimantadine (Remantadine). For the desired effect, they must be taken as soon as the disease begins to manifest itself. Another drawback is that it is not always possible to understand what kind of virus a person has fallen ill with. And these antiviral drugs are indicated for an epidemic of the influenza A virus. In addition, bird and swine flu are resistant to them. It is important to remember that taking an antiviral drug for a cold should be done not only by the sick person, but also by all members of his family.

An effective antiviral remedy for colds

But neuraminidase inhibitors act on influenza viruses A and B. The essence of their action is to suppress the enzyme that is responsible for the reproduction of the virus. Representatives of this group of drugs are Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and Zanamivir (Relenza). You can start taking them within two days from the initial manifestations of the disease.

List of antiviral drugs for colds

• "Tamiflu";
• "Relenza";
• "Grippferon";
• "Anaferon";
• "Amixin";
• "Kagocel";
• "Remantadin";
• "Viferon";
• "Arbidol";
• "Ribavirin";
• "Amizon";
• "Cycloferon".

Antiviral drug for colds "Zanamivir"

"Zanamivir" is prescribed for influenza in adults and children over 5 years old, 5 mg inhalation twice a day for 5 days. The total daily dose reaches 10 mg. The drug is not combined with other inhaled drugs (including bronchodilators), due to the fact that exacerbations are possible in patients with bronchial asthma and other nonspecific lung diseases. In a number of people without pulmonary pathology, there may be signs of irritation of the nasopharynx, reaching in rare cases until the appearance of bronchospasm.

Antiviral drug for colds "Oseltamivir"

For influenza for adults and children over 12 years of age, the recommended dose of Oseltamivir is 75 mg 2 times a day for at least 5 days. "Oseltamivir" is prescribed for children over 1 year old - with a body weight of less than 15 kg, 30 mg, from 15 to 23 kg, 45 mg, from 23 to 40 kg, 60 mg, more than 40 kg - 75 mg twice a day for five days.

The drug is prescribed with caution in renal failure, it can cause nausea and vomiting when taken.

Antiviral drugs for colds with a broader spectrum of action - Ribavirin (Ribarin) and Inosine Pranobex (Groprinosin).

Antiviral drug for colds "Ribavirin"

"Ribavirin" acts on influenza A and B group viruses, parainfluenza, respiratory syncytial virus, coronaviruses, rhinoviruses. A feature of the drug is its high toxicity, so it is used only if a respiratory syncytial infection is confirmed, which often leads to bronchiolitis in children.

Ribavirin is used to treat influenza in adults over 18 years of age (200 mg 3-4 times a day with meals for 5-7 days) in the absence of pregnancy, renal failure and hemolytic anemia.

Antiviral drug for colds "Inosine pranobex"

"Inosine pranobex" fights influenza viruses, parainfluenza, rhinoviruses, adenoviruses. This antiviral drug for colds stimulates the human body's defenses. For the treatment of influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections, it is recommended to take it: for adults, 2 tablets 3-4 times a day at regular intervals for 5-7 days; children daily dose is 50 mg per kilogram of body weight.

Take the daily dose in 3-4 doses at regular intervals. The duration of treatment is 5-7 days.

Interferons and interferon inducers

Another large group of antiviral drugs for colds are interferons and interferon inducers. Interferons are protein substances that the body synthesizes as a response to infection, due to them the body is more resistant to viruses. They have a wide spectrum of action, which compares favorably with many other synthetic drugs. But some experts argue that with SARS they are not very effective. In the case of colds, they are prescribed as nasal drops and rectal suppositories. Native leukocyte interferon is instilled four to six times a day, Reaferon (interferon alfa-2a) two drops twice to four times a day. Viferon (alpha-2b interferon) usually comes as suppositories, adults usually use Viferon 3 and 4.

There are also interferon inducers. These are drugs that stimulate the body to produce its own interferons. Colds are treated with "Tiloron" ("Amiksin"), "Meglumine acridone acetate" ("Cycloferon") and a number of other antiviral drugs for colds.

Antiviral drug for colds "Amiksin"

For the treatment of influenza and acute respiratory infections, Amiksin is prescribed orally after meals, two tablets of 0.125 g for adults and 0.06 g for children over 7 years old on the first day of illness and then 1 tablet every other day.

For a course of treatment - up to 6 tablets. Contraindicated in pregnant women and children under 7 years of age.

Antiviral drug for colds "Cycloferon"

"Cycloferon" is used to treat influenza and acute respiratory infections in the form of intramuscular injections at a dose of 250 mg (12.5% ​​in 2 ml) two days in a row, then every other day or 1 tablet of 0.15 g every other day for 20 days.

Antiviral drug for colds "Kagocel"

"Kagocel" is an interferon inducer with a direct antiviral and immunomodulatory effect.

Usually it is prescribed for influenza and acute respiratory infections for adults, 2 tablets 3 times a day for the first two days (daily dose is 72 mg), then 1 tablet 3 times a day (daily dose 36 mg). In total, up to 18 tablets fall on a 4-day course.

Antiviral drug for colds "Arbidol"

An antiviral drug such as Arbidol is effective in treating colds. It acts against viruses A, B, they are also treated with parainfluenza, syncytial infections, adenoviruses. The essence of the action of the drug is to stimulate the production of endogenous interferon, it has an antioxidant effect, strengthens the immune system.

Arbidol for colds without complications is prescribed: for children from 3 to 6 years old - 50 mg, from 6 to 12 years old - 100 mg, over 12 years old and adults - 200 mg 4 times a day (every 6 hours) for 5 days. With the development of complications (bronchitis, pneumonia, etc.), children from 3 to 6 years old take Arbidol 50 mg, from 6 to 12 years old - 100 mg, over 12 years old, adults - 200 mg 4 times a day (every 6 hours ) for 5 days, then a single dose once a week for a month.

Antiviral drug for colds "Amizon"

The antiviral drug for colds "Amizon" is an inducer of endogenous interferon, has antiviral, immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects.

Adults take "Amizon" 2-4 times a day after meals with moderate flu and acute respiratory infections, 0.25 g, with severe - 0.5 g for 5-7 days; the course dose of treatment is 3-6.5 g. Children aged 6-12 years old drink 0.125 g 2-3 times a day for 5-7 days.

Antiviral drug for colds "Anaferon"

"Anaferon" refers to homeopathic remedies with antiviral and immunomodulatory effects. It is also used to treat colds and flu. Dosage for adults: 1 tablet, sublingually from three times a day to six, depending on the severity of the disease.

Treatment begins at the first respiratory symptoms. After the condition improves, it is recommended to switch to taking the drug once a day, for 8-10 days. For children from six months to three years old, dissolve one tablet in 15 ml of water and give to drink. For prevention, "Anaferon" is prescribed one tablet once a day, for one to three months.

Antiviral drug for colds "Grippferon"

"Grippferon" is an immunomodulatory, antiviral and anti-inflammatory drug for intranasal use. The duration of the course of use and the dose of the drug "Grippferon" is usually determined by the attending doctor.

The recommended dose for children under 1 year of age is 500 IU (1 drop of the drug) 5 times a day; for children from 1 to 3 years old is 1000 IU (2 drops of "Grippferon") 3-4 times a day; from 3 to 14 years is 1000 IU (2 drops of the drug "Grippferon") 4-5 times a day. The recommended dose for adults is 1500 IU (3 drops) 5-6 times a day. The duration of the course of application is 5 days.

Herbal antivirals for colds

Some medicinal herbs also have antiviral effects. The action of many herbal preparations is directed against viruses belonging to the herpes family. Colds are often accompanied by herpetic eruptions, in addition, the course of cytomegalovirus infection also often occurs with the same symptoms as SARS. Alpizarin belongs to this category of drugs. The active substance in it is an extract of plants such as alpine kopeechnik, yellowing kopeechnik, mango leaves. The antiviral drug "Flakozid" contains an active ingredient, which is obtained from Amur velvet and Laval velvet. For external use, ointments are used "Megozin" (cotton oil), "Helepin" (the ground part of the Lespedeza penny), "Gossypol" (obtained when cotton seeds or cotton roots are processed).

Altabor also belongs to antiviral drugs that are used for colds. It is based on an extract of gray and black (glutinous) alder seedlings.

Soddy pike and ground reed grass give life to the drug "Proteflazid", it is also used in the treatment of colds, flu and for their prevention. The German drug "Imupret" has an antiviral and immunomodulatory effect. It consists of horsetail, walnut leaves and oak bark.

The price of antiviral drugs for colds

The run-up in prices for antiviral drugs for colds is quite wide - from 20 to 200 hryvnia (of course, it still depends on the packaging and the number of tablets). In any case, it is better to consult with your doctor, who will prescribe a drug that will be most effective in a particular case.

If we call the approximate prices for the main antiviral drugs used to treat colds, in Ukrainian pharmacies they are: "Amizon" - from 20 UAH, "Arbidol" - from 50 UAH, "Amiksin" - from 30 UAH, "Anaferon" - from 40 UAH, "Remantadin" - from 11 UAH, "Kagocel" from 70 UAH, "Viferon" - from 70 UAH - from 110 UAH.

Inexpensive antivirals for colds

Inexpensive antiviral drugs for colds, which are often prescribed by doctors and widely used - "Amizon", "Amiksin", "Anaferon". For 20-40 hryvnia, you can buy 10 tablets. But once again we pay attention: before deciding on the purchase of an antiviral drug for a cold, you should consult with your doctor.

With the help of antiviral drugs, it is not the consequence that is eliminated, but the cause of the onset of a cold. This is a great advantage of antiviral drugs in the treatment of colds, this also explains their effectiveness. Antiviral drugs shorten the duration of a cold by two to three days, making it easier for her. Due to the intake of antiviral drugs for colds, the risk that other chronic diseases will worsen (exacerbation of bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis and other diseases) will decrease, and various complications will not arise, as is often the case with other drugs. In addition, antiviral drugs for colds have an excellent effect in the prevention of acute respiratory viral infections, influenza, including among healthy family members when the patient is at home.

What antiviral drugs should you buy for a cold?

Answers:

Olga Oliinyk

There are more than 200 cold viruses :) Effective antiviral drugs - in which the effectiveness of SARS is greater than the total harm to the body - does not exist. A normal body itself completely masters these viruses, producing interferon at a high temperature (therefore, it is not necessary to bring down the temperature below 38.5 - it is good!) - in 3 days. If not, then antibodies will be produced for a week :) So - do not torture yourself with chemistry - fresh wet !! ! air, rinsing the nose with saline and gargling - with any herbs or just water - the process itself is important, drinking plenty of water often and - BE HEALTHY !!!

jack cat

Evgeny Usmanov

Avlaak "x Mage

if you have a runny nose, then RINZA is checked

mp3 player

strange question .. drugs against the virus for colds .. .
so virus or cold
pepper for colds
antiviral prescribes vrc

XXX XXXXX

Do not buy either Arbidol or Remontadin. One good doctor told me a secret.

Enot323

http://www.leovit.ru/vilechitprostudu.html

Andrey Enyutin

don't waste money. once I got sick it’s too late: (((what with them or without for any week.

Tanya Abramovich

macha

drink fresh juices

Maxim Baranov

Antiviral are effective on the first day, when it just starts to tickle, sneeze and watery. Then they are useless. Colds are treated with bed rest, plentiful (up to 2 liters per day, but better as needed) drink (+ lemon, honey, etc.) and paracetamol for fever over 38.5 degrees. This is on the recommendation of infectious disease specialists. In general, a cold occurs when the body VERY wants to rest. Therefore, without treatment, a cold goes away in a week, and with treatment - in just 7 days ...

lady-ice

tea with lemon and honey! you can warm milk with honey also helps a lot!! pills is chemistry is not desirable.

Antiviral remedy for colds. The best antivirals

A healthy person is not at all interested in the causes of disease. But the first "sneezing" or "sniffing" makes him rush to the pharmacy. This is where the question arises: "Which drug to choose?" The source of the common cold is a bacterial or viral infection. The first is perfectly eliminated by antibiotics. But often a cold is caused by a viral infection. Antibacterial therapy is useless here. Only an antiviral agent for a cold can help.

Admission feasibility

As you know, the immune system is a protective barrier against viruses. It is she who is able to resist many of them, preventing the disease from developing. Unfortunately, a weakened immune system is unable to protect the body. In this case, the best antiviral agents come to the rescue. They should be started right away. Then it is possible to avoid serious complications and exacerbation of chronic ailments.

An antiviral remedy for colds can reduce inflammation, lower temperature and promote healing of the body. These medicines are also recommended for prophylaxis before the onset of seasonal colds.

It is quite difficult to determine which type of virus caused the disease, so doctors advise using an antiviral agent for a wide-range cold. Important. The doctor should prescribe the necessary medications after the examination.

Consider the best antiviral agents. Each of these drugs is able to quickly defeat a cold. And at the same time to prevent the development of unpleasant complications.

The medicine "Kagocel"

It is an immunomodulatory antiviral drug. The composition of the drug contains the sodium salt of the copolymer. This component contributes to the production of late interferon. Thus, there is an antiviral effect.

The medicine "Kagocel" is most effective if its use is started on the first day of the disease.

Side effects rarely occur. It manifests itself in the form of allergic reactions. The medicine "Kagocel" is approved for use by children from three years of age. It is not recommended for pregnant and lactating women.

Medicine "Tsitovir 3"

An effective antiviral agent with a complex action. The drug includes ascorbic acid, bendazole, which stimulates the production of endogenous interferon in the body.

The medicine is produced in several forms:

• capsules intended for adults;
• syrup approved for children from 1 year old;
• powder for making a solution.

Possibly available side effects, such as a decrease in pressure in those individuals who suffer from VVD.

Medicine is contraindicated for patients with diagnoses:

• hypotension;
• urolithiasis disease;
• stomach ulcer;
• diabetes.

The therapeutic effect occurs already on the second or third day.

The drug "Amixin"

Good antiviral. It has excellent immunomodulatory properties. In addition, it is an interferon inducer. The drug "Amixin" perfectly fights colds with viral ailments. It is effective in a wide range of diseases of this group. Use the medicine "Amixin" not only for treatment. It is advisable to use it for the prevention of viral diseases.

Children under 7 years of age are not prescribed medication. It should not be used by pregnant and lactating women.

Relatively rarely, side effects can occur. The only manifestation is an allergic reaction.

Means "Ingavirin"

The drug is in demand for the treatment of influenza A, B, parainfluenza, adenovirus infection and many other ailments. It is an excellent immunomodulator. It activates the body's defense against viral pathogens.

The product is intended exclusively for adults. Under 18 years of age, its use is not recommended. Pregnant women and lactating women can take the drug "Ingavirin" only as prescribed by the doctor.

Possible side effects are allergies.

The drug "Tamiflu"

A fairly effective antiviral agent for colds. It is used to fight influenza viruses A, B. In relation to other colds (ARVI), the medicine is ineffective. The drug is not intended for prevention.

The tool can be used for children who have reached 1 year. An important condition is the correct dosage. The drug "Tamiflu" is allowed to use during lactation and pregnancy. In this case, you should be careful and carefully monitor your well-being.

The use of this tool can cause side effects:

• insomnia;
• diarrhea;
• headache;
• nausea.

It is forbidden to use the medicine for a long time without interruption. Because it can provoke depression and psychosis in the patient.

The medicine "Arbidol"

Popular antiviral tablets for colds. They are effective in the treatment of a number of viral ailments. This drug is not prescribed for children under 3 years of age. Pregnant women can use the remedy, but only under the supervision of a doctor.

Side effects of the drug use include:

• headache;
• individual allergic reaction.

This drug was invented in 1974. To this day, it remains in demand. Since the drug "Arbidol" is an effective and safe remedy that has a wide range of effects.

The drug "Anaferon"

This is a homeopathic medicine that can stimulate antiviral immunity. The drug is used to treat influenza. In addition, it is prescribed for preventive purposes. The drug can reduce the risk of complications.

The medicine "Anaferon" is allowed to be used by lactating and pregnant women. In addition, when choosing effective antiviral drugs for colds for children, the choice of most parents and doctors stops at this remedy. For crumbs, manufacturers have released a special form of medicine.

The drug "Anaferon" is contraindicated in individuals who are lactose intolerant. Basically, the remedy does not cause complications. At the same time, it is very efficient.

Medicine "Oscillococcinum"

Homeopathic preparation, which is available in granules. The facility provides effective prevention. Good for colds and flu. The drug has almost no contraindications. The only exception is lactose intolerance. The tool is allowed to use newborns, from the first days. It is prescribed for lactating and pregnant women.

The medicine is most effective if it is started at the first symptoms of the oncoming disease. The drug "Oscillococcinum" helps to suppress the activity of the influenza virus, protects against possible complications.

Treatment of children

Nature provided us with the best antiviral agents. These are lemon, garlic, ginger, honey, aloe, rosehip. Regularly supporting the baby's immunity with such affordable and simple means, the need for drugs will disappear by itself.

But if the crumbs have all the symptoms of the disease, then drug therapy is indispensable.

Children's antiviral drugs for colds are used as follows:

1. Homeopathic remedies. In these medicines, the content of active substances is extremely small. How they affect the body is still not clear. But the positive effect is quite often denied. Doctors recommend using the one day rule. If a homeopathic medicine does not give a favorable effect during the day, there is no need for further intake. Such drugs are: Oscillococccinum, Aflubin, Anaferon, Ergoferon, Vibrukol (candles).
2. interferon inductors. These are effective immunostimulants. They force the body to produce interferon on its own. They are prescribed with extreme caution. At the same time, it is recommended to use these funds for a short time. Since long-term use depletes resources. In this connection, the effectiveness of drugs is significantly reduced. This group includes drugs: "Citovir", "Kagocel", "Viferon" (candles), "Grippferon" (drops). The drug "Derinat" of a new generation is very effective. It is noticed that under its influence the body produces its own interferon much faster. Antiviral suppositories (for example, Viferon) deserve special attention. Studies have confirmed that rectal administration can increase the bioavailability of interferon up to 80%.
3. Combined drugs. These are excellent antiviral agents, and at the same time, excellent interferon inducers. These include drugs: "Cycloferon", "Amiksin", "Arbidol", "Ingavirin", "Isoprinosine", "Panavir". All agents act on viruses and at the same time stimulate the production of interferon. They are not used for children under two years of age, since the drugs have side effects.
4. Anti-influenza. This group includes drugs: Tamiflu, Remantadin, Relenza. Their effect extends only to influenza viruses. In relation to other diseases, they are ineffective.

The use of drugs for children

It must be remembered that an antiviral remedy for a cold is a powerful weapon. If used incorrectly, it will not cure SARS, influenza. And it can even hurt. Therefore, use the medicine only in the prescribed dosages and according to the indicated schemes.

The following list of funds will allow parents to navigate which children's antiviral drugs for colds are suitable for their crumbs.

The following medications may be prescribed for newborns:

• "Aflubin" (drops).
• "Interferon".
• "Oscillococcinum".
• "Viferon" (candles).
• "Grippferon".
• "Kipferon".
• "Genferon light" (rectal suppositories).
• "Acyclovir".

Crumbs who are 1 month old are allowed to use the Anaferon remedy for children. Six-month-old babies are allowed to use the medicine "Ergoferon".

From 1 year old, babies can be treated with drugs:

• "Remantadin".
• "Citovir 3".
• "Tamiflu".

Two-year-old children may be prescribed Isoprinosine.

For babies whose age reaches 3 years, medicines are suitable:

• "Kagocel".
• "Arbidol".

For four-year-old children, the use of the drug "Cycloferon" in tablet form is allowed.

Five-year-old crumbs can already use drugs:

• "Relenza".
• "Aflubin" (in tablets);

Seven-year-old children can be treated with Amiksin. And from the age of 13, children are allowed to use the drug "Ingavirin".

Important warning

In conclusion, it should be said that any antiviral drugs you choose should be taken very carefully. You shouldn't do this often. Constant stimulation of the immune system depletes the system. The body's own defenses begin to work less effectively. Doctors advise for one year to conduct no more than 3-4 courses of antiviral drugs. A person who uses these drugs more often is at great risk. Since it is quite dangerous for the immune system.

List of inexpensive flu and cold medicines

Almost everyone suffers from a cold at least once a year. No matter how strong the human body is, it cannot be completely insured against viruses and infections, especially if the off-season or winter has come. Manufacturers for disease control offer inexpensive cold and flu medicines. You need to know which ones are not only cheap, but also effective.

Antivirals are inexpensive but effective

All cold and flu remedies fall into three broad categories:

1. Antiviral. These drugs fight the virus, make the cells of the body more resistant to its effects.
2. Immunomodulators. Preparations for correcting the protective reactions of the body to a natural level.
3. For symptomatic treatment. The drugs in this group do not suppress the infection, but simply remove the symptoms of a cold or flu.

Antiviral tablets

The most famous drugs in this category:

1. Tamiflu, Oseltamivir. Adults and teenagers drink 1 tablet twice a day for five days. The medicine is not recommended for those who have diseased kidneys.
2. "Amixin". Adults drink two tablets of 125 mg on the first day of illness, and then - one at a time every other day. The dosage of the children's drug is halved. The drug should not be taken by pregnant women.
3. Ribavirin. A new generation drug, very effective. Adults take 0.2 g four times a day. Course - 5 days.

Immunomodulators

Inexpensive good cold and flu medicines in this category:

1. "Cycloferon". A drug for adults and children who are already four years old. The course is 20 days, take a tablet every other day.
2. "Kagocel". This medicine can be combined with antibiotics. Adults take two tablets three times the first two days, and then one at a time. "Kagocel" should not be taken by pregnant women for the first three months.
3. "Anaferon". Homeopathic medicine. Adults drink one tablet 3-6 times a day.

For symptomatic treatment

List of drugs that can remove the symptoms of the disease:

1. Coldact Flu Plus. Capsules with paracetamol and excipients. You need to drink them one by one every 12 hours. During treatment, it is necessary to categorically refuse alcoholic beverages.
2. "Coldrex". Helps with colds with wet cough. It is necessary to take one tablet 3-4 times a day. This drug should not be taken if you have diabetes, liver or kidney failure.
3. "Rinza". Tablets are taken one at a time 4 times a day. They should not be drunk by pregnant women, children under 15 years old, people with heart disease, blood vessels. Course - 5 days.
4. "Fervex". The drug is produced in the form of sachets with powder, which must be dissolved in warm water. Do not use Fervex for more than three days. Do not drink more than 4 packets per day.

Cold remedies

In addition to pills, there are many other drugs that effectively fight the disease. If you do not want to take antiviral drugs for colds and flu, drink complex symptomatic remedies, then you can try a different treatment tactic. The decision must be made based on the severity of the disease. There are many inexpensive cold and flu medicines that will help you get better.

For sore throat

To relieve inflammation and irritation, the following medicines will help you:

1. "Grammidin". Fast acting lozenges with anesthetic. You need to take them two pieces 4 times a day, observing a weekly course.
2. Strepsils. They relieve pain and have an antiseptic effect. Tablets should be sucked one by one every three hours. It is allowed to be treated with the drug for children older than five years. Completely remove the pain in the throat in three to four days.
3. Faringosept. A powerful medicine that is forbidden to be taken by children under six years of age. It is recommended to dissolve the tablets after meals and then not to drink liquids for some time. Per day - no more than five pieces. The course of treatment is three days.

Nasal drops

A runny nose will help you remove such drugs:

1. Sanorin. They have a vasoconstrictive effect. Do not treat nasal congestion, but temporarily eliminate it. These drops should not be used for more than five days in a row. As part of a reduced concentration of vasoconstrictor substances and eucalyptus oil.
2. "Pinosol". Medicinal drops with a therapeutic effect. They slowly fight the causes of a runny nose, but do not eliminate congestion.
3. Aqua Maris. Means for moisturizing the nasal mucosa. Does not dry out blood vessels, speeds up the healing process. Moisturizing drops are recommended to be used for any type of runny nose.
4. "Vibrocil". Antiviral drug. Drops remove not only the common cold, but also its cause. They have a vasoconstrictive, antihistamine effect, kill bacteria, relieve swelling.

Antipyretic

The following medicines will quickly reduce the temperature:

1. "Paracetamol". A time-tested and inexpensive remedy that removes fever, relieves pain and inflammation. It has practically no side effects. Paracetamol is the main active component of many other drugs: Panadol, Fervexa, Flukold, Coldrex.
2. "Ibuprofen". This medicine is rather anti-inflammatory, but it also lowers the temperature well. It should not be taken by those who have an ulcer, kidney or liver disease. It is part of Nurofen, Ibuklin.
3. "Aspirin" (acetylsalicylic acid). Antipyretic and analgesic. Should not be taken by pregnant women, children under 12, those with reduced blood clotting. It is the main component of a huge number of other antipyretic drugs.

For herpes

This unpleasant symptom of a cold will help to overcome such ointments:

1. "Acyclovir". The cheapest remedy. Fights the virus, does not allow it to multiply. If you are pregnant or nursing a child, then do not use the drug. If you often have herpes, then it is better to alternate Acyclovir with another antiseptic ointment or cream so as not to be addictive.
2. Zovirax. The composition of the cream includes propylene glycol, thanks to which the active substance penetrates into the cells faster and more efficiently. Well absorbed into the skin. "Zovirax" must be used clearly according to the instructions.
3. "Fenistil Pencivir". A very powerful medicine that eliminates herpes instantly. Prevents wounds from becoming scars. The drug should not be used by pregnant women, nursing mothers, children under 12.

From cough

Table of drugs:

Inexpensive analogues of drugs

If you can't afford even the cheapest antiviral drugs, use Paracetamol, Aspirin, or Ibuprofen. For symptomatic treatment, use local remedies: Naphthyzin or Farmazolin nasal drops, Septifril tablets for treating sore throat, Cough medicine. Gargling with Chlorophyllipt will also be effective.

Medicines to prevent flu and colds

To protect yourself from the disease, and not to cope with its manifestations, it is best to use drugs with an immunomodulatory effect. The rules of preventive administration are described in the instructions for each of them. You can try capsules "Broncho-munal", which is allowed to be combined with almost all drugs. Such drugs as Ribomunil, Immunal, Rimantadine, Arbidol, Amizon have a good preventive effect.

Video: homemade "Coldrex" for a cold

Update: January 2020

Any disease, especially ARVI and influenza, is easier, cheaper and safer not to treat, but not to allow, to prevent its occurrence. Recently, especially worried about the "point" - safer. Should I take antiviral pills at all? In today's complex world, how to deal with questions:

• Will there be an effect from the use of an expensive antiviral drug?
• What is the best medicine for influenza to take for adults, children?
• Will this remedy do the opposite - harm to health?
• Is there a better cure for the flu?
• Effective antiviral drugs - is it advertising, business, dummies or not?

About antivirals

Antiviral agents for the treatment of ARVI in the pharmaceutical market of Russia are united by the following:

• Almost all antiviral drugs for ARVI and influenza do not have an evidence base for their antiviral efficacy. The studies are very expensive, they are carried out by the manufacturers themselves and the parties interested in a positive conclusion.
• Today, most clinical trials of new drugs are regularly falsified in order to bring "miracle" drugs to the market with a new price tag. Given the fabulous commercial benefits from the sale of expensive antiviral drugs during an epidemic, one cannot believe in the honesty and objectivity of research.
• As you know, pharmacological publications, even in medical journals today, by about 90 percent are custom articles of an advertising nature.
  

Today, pharmacy chains have an abundance of various medicines, some of which, in fact, are not “medicines”, since there are a lot of fakes, outright dummies and ineffective remedies. Advocates for patients' rights in Ukraine, for example, claim that the active ingredient was not found in 4 drugs registered as antivirals. However, a wide advertising campaign allows manufacturers to earn millions of hryvnias a year on them.

Antiviral agents for ARVI are conditionally divided into:

• Vaccines- stimulation of the production of antibodies before infection with the virus.
• Immunostimulants- drugs that briefly enhance non-specific (that is, not directed against a specific virus) immunity. They are divided into 2 groups:
  • Interferons are substances obtained from a donor (including animals) or synthesized in a laboratory (recombinant), the task of which is to enhance the antiviral response. Interferons are usually produced in the form of a dry powder, which must be diluted with water and instilled into the nose. Effective only in the initial stages of the disease. And although such substances are always produced in the human body during illness, the additional administration of interferons can cause allergic reactions and even actoimmune pathologies.
  • Contributing to the production of interferons (interferonogens). These are substances that stimulate immune cells to produce interferon molecules. In most countries, such drugs are prohibited due to the unpredictability of their effects on the body. In our country, Kagocel and Amiksin are widely used.
• Direct antiviral drugs:
  • drugs that affect neuraminidase (viral enzyme), suppressing the reproduction of the virus: Oseltamivir (Tamiflu), Zanamivir (Relenza), Triazavirin;
  • hemagglutinin inhibitor only - umifenovir (Arbidol);
  • M2-channel blockers Amantadine, Remantadine - these drugs have proven clinical efficacy, but, like any means, they have a number of side effects.
• Homeopathy. Although the WHO has recognized the use of homeopathy (drugs that treat like with like) as ineffective, there are always supporters of such medicines, who consider them to be a “soft effect” on the body. Homeopathic remedies recommended by some doctors for ARVI include Engystol, Gripp-heel, Agri (Homeopathic Antigrippin) and some others.

Action	Names of medicines
Interferon preparations Blockade of viral mRNA translation, presentation of viral antigens	Recombinant alpha/gamma interferons
Etiotropic agents Neuraminidase inhibitors	Relenza peramivir
Ion channel blockers	Rimantadin (Remantadin, Orvirem)
Inhibition of viral RNA synthesis and replication of genomic fragments	Triazavirin
Antivirals Enable synthesis endogenous interferons	Kagocel Cycloferon Lavomax (Amiksin, Tiloron)
Specific HA chaperone	Arbidol
NP inhibitors

Immunomodulators and antivirals

Immunostimulants produced today show the activation of immune responses at the biochemical level (what is called “in vitro”), but their real benefits and long-term consequences of use are rather complex, little-studied areas. Since relatively recently information about many mechanisms of immunity has become known, and every year scientists receive more and more new information about its functioning. Therefore, there is no confidence in the safety and correctness of the general stimulation of the "understudied" immune system (see). Especially careful should be the prophylactic use of immunostimulants and treatment with antiviral drugs for SARS in children.

“Pharmacy immunostimulants can not only help the body, but also harm,” says Ph.D. Tatyana Tikhomirova, immunologist-allergist. Such a state as hyperactivation of the immune system, as well as immunodeficiency is extremely dangerous, human body functions normally only when the immune system is in balance. And if a person every time stimulates ("improve himself") immunity, then in the presence of predisposing factors, this can result in pathological inflammation, the launch of immune aggression on healthy tissues, hyperactivation of the immune system and theoretically (in an extreme situation) to the development of an autoimmune or oncological disease.

If the next of kin has any autoimmune disease (rheumatoid arthritis, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, Sjögren's syndrome, multiple sclerosis, etc.), then under no circumstances should a person use any immunostimulants. Even if a person is healthy, there are already disorders in the immune system, and you can live with them all your life, but if you try to stimulate your immune system rudely and persistently, this can end with the debut of an autoimmune disease.

Fortunately, for most healthy people, without the presence of any predisposing factors, it is quite difficult to “boost” your immunity in such a way as to seriously harm your health. Since most of the known immunostimulants either do not work at all, or almost do not work. One part of the preparations is an ordinary deceit, the other is ineffective means. But it should be remembered that any drug has side effects.

Alexander Khadzhidis, chief clinical pharmacologist of St. Petersburg, states the following: “Some doctors, for some reason, first prescribe antipyretic drugs to patients, and then immunomodulators, supposedly to produce interferon, which is illogical and generally absurd. That is, first, by bringing down the temperature, they “forbid” the body to fight the virus (against the virus and infection), and then artificially “force” it to do so.

In developed countries, there are no interferonogens (drugs that stimulate the production of interferon) at all. Interferons can work only with parenteral (intravenous) administration, and even then, their effectiveness is questionable. In Russia, these drugs are extremely popular, despite the fact that they are useless.

As for antipyretics for a virus, it is better to bring down the temperature and one-time when the temperature rises, and not 4 r / day - “just in case”. Reception of Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) in acute respiratory viral infections, especially for children under 12 years of age, is contraindicated, it can cause severe damage to the central nervous system and liver - Reye's disease, it is not recommended to use it for those who have suffered from gastrointestinal ulcers.

A well-known doctor in Russia, Alexander Myasnikov, declares that all immunomodulators widely advertised in our country today are a waste of money. In the United States and Western Europe, it has already been unambiguously recognized and proven that these drugs are ineffective, but most Russian doctors continue to believe in the power of immunomodulators in the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections.

Most antiviral drugs for ARVI and influenza have been developed and used for no more than 10-40 years. The drug should have a longer "trial period" in order to make a conclusion about its effectiveness and side effects. As for immunostimulants, these drugs can have delayed consequences (risks of developing autoimmune diseases, blood cancers, etc.) and should be prescribed according to strict indications.

pharmachologic effect: Comprehensive immunostimulating, an antiviral drug, has an interferonogenic effect. As part of the drug - Thymogen sodium, ascorbic acid, bendazole. Thymogen is a synthetically obtained dipeptide, it enhances the nonspecific resistance of the body. Ascorbic acid normalizes capillary permeability, reducing the activity of the inflammatory process. Bendazole stimulates the production of endogenous interferon in the body.

Side effects: in persons suffering from vegetative-vascular dystonia, it causes a decrease in blood pressure.

Contraindications: during pregnancy, children under 1 year old, thrombophlebitis, severe hypotension, diabetes mellitus, stomach ulcer, urolithiasis.

Produced: since 2001 in capsules, for children since 2006 in syrup, in powder for solution
Research: There are no reliable data on clinical trials confirming its effectiveness and safety. Doctors and pharmacists often recommend this remedy for children, but it should be used with caution or not at all in the treatment of children.

Reviews: Quite a lot of feedback from patients using Tsitovir, about the effectiveness and absence of side effects. Improvement in well-being is observed on the second or third day, in isolated cases the drug did not help.
Price: Tsitovir 3 - on average 240-580 rub.

Amizon

pharmachologic effect: exhibits an immunomodulating effect due to an increase in the titer of antibodies in the blood by 3-4 times, an increase in the production of lysozyme. It is also an interferonogen. The antipyretic properties of the drug are due to its effect on the thermoregulatory center in the diencephalon. And he can relieve pain (headache, aching joints, muscle) with the help of isonicotinic acid on the reticular formation of the brain stem.

Does not have a toxic effect on the kidneys and blood. Although it belongs to the group of non-narcotic analgesics (like Analgin and Paracetamol), it does not have a damaging effect on the gastric mucosa.
Side effects: Usually the drug is well tolerated, but it can also cause a feeling of bitterness in the mouth, slight swelling of the oral mucosa. This does not require discontinuation of the drug, nor additional treatment.
The drug should not be used during pregnancy and lactation.
Price: 20 tabs - 360 r, 30 tabs - 440 r.

Anaferon

pharmachologic effect: The drug is based on antibodies to human interferon, that is, molecules similar to viral ones. The body “thinks” that a virus has entered the bloodstream and activates the immune response. It increases the production of various lymphocytes and increases the functional reserve of those that "go" directly to the focus of inflammation. Also, the drug is an interferonogen, increasing the formation of its own "early" interferons (alpha and beta), as well as gamma interferons.

The drug is available in the form of lozenges - for children and adults, as well as oral drops - for use by children.

Side effects: only allergic reactions.
Price: Anaferon in tablets for children and adults - about 210 r for 20 tabs, Anaferon in drops - 260 r

Poludan

This is an immunomodulating drug that has been on the market for a very long time, consisting of polyadenylic and polyuridylic acids. It is produced in the form of a powder for the preparation of drops in the nose.

Poludan is an interferonogen, causing the formation of all three types (alpha, beta and gamma) of interferons. It can be used both for the prevention and treatment of influenza, SARS, viral conjunctivitis and keratitis.

Poludan is approved for use during pregnancy, in childhood, during lactation.

Cons: high cost of the drug, local (in the nose) allergic reactions.
Price: 600-700 r.

Timalin

The drug is based on an extract obtained from the thymus (the main organ of immunity) of cattle. The drug has been used for several decades; is available as a powder in ampoules, which must be dissolved with a sterile solution and injected intramuscularly.

An overdose of the drug can end very badly: a person may develop a decrease in the thymus in size and a significant decrease in its function (this leads to severe suppression of immunity). Timalin is contraindicated in pregnancy, lactation.

Price: 430-450 r for 10 ampoules.

Kagocel

Pharmachologic effect: inducer of interferon synthesis, has antiviral, immunomodulatory effect. Composition: sodium salt of the copolymer, which causes the formation of late interferon with high antiviral activity. The greatest effect occurs if treatment is started within the first 24 hours of the disease, but no later than the 4th day after the onset of an acute infection. For the purpose of prevention, it is possible to take it at any time, it is better immediately after contact with a sick ARVI or flu.

Side effects: occurrence of allergic reactions.
Produced: Registered in 2003, since 2005 it has been produced in tablets, since 2011 it has been approved for use in children over 3 years of age for the treatment of influenza, as a prophylaxis of SARS, it is possible to use children over 6 years of age.

Efficacy and safety studies: There is conflicting information here. The active substance is the sodium salt of the gossypol copolymer with carboxymethylcellulose. Moreover, Gossypol itself, a natural polyphenol, has been banned in the world since 1998 due to its toxicity. Gossypol has been actively studied by some countries as a contraceptive for a very long time, with its prolonged use, spermatogenesis completely stops. Chinese and Brazilian scientists say boys and men who take gossypol may experience infertility in the future. However, Kagocel is not gossypol in its pure form, it is the sodium salt of the copolymer, which has other properties that differ from those of the chemical itself.

The manufacturer actively advertises the drug and claims that the salt in Kagocel is negligible, 4 times lower than the concentration allowed by international standards. Multiple stages of product purification ensure the absence of free Gossypol in the final drug, which is checked during the quality control of each series of Kagocel tablets. The method used to test for the presence of free gossypol is very accurate and can detect levels above 0.0036%. At the beginning of 2013, data on tests conducted on rats were published - no changes in reproductive function in animals could be found.

So no research has been done on primates? It is known that gossypol for different animal species has its own toxicity limits, according to the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) for rats, the maximum toxic dose is 2200-3300 mg/kg., for pigs 550, for guinea pigs up to 300 mg/kg. The studies carried out by the manufacturer included the administration of therapeutic doses to male rats, and doses up to 25 times the therapeutic dose ( 250 mg/kg). Can the rest of the claims and "research" be trusted?

Kagocel is not used in Western Europe or the USA, and is not on the WHO drug lists. The effectiveness of the drug has not been proven according to representatives of the Formulary Committee of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences and OSDM. No statistical studies have been conducted on the development of side effects as of autumn 2013.

Reviews: It helps a lot, some children and adults have allergic reactions in the form of a rash, swelling, itching.
Price: Kagocel - average 180-280 rub. In 2012, the sales volume amounted to 2.64 billion rubles

Tiloron (Amiksin, Lavomax)

Pharmachologic effect: active substance Tiloron, has antiviral and immunomodulatory action, it is a synthetic inducer of interferon, stimulating the formation of interferons alpha, beta, gamma.

Side effects: short-term chills, allergic reactions, contraindicated in breastfeeding and pregnancy.

Produced: almost 40 years ago, children under 7 years old are strictly forbidden to use.

Research: The benefits of the drug are undoubted both for the treatment and prevention of viral diseases, but this may be offset by potential harm to the body. In the 80s in the USA, after tests on mice, the drug was banned, as it had a highly toxic effect, in experimental animals, retinal dissection, liver lipidosis and other side effects were observed. It does not apply in the US and the European Union. In our country, the antiviral Amixin continues to be produced and doctors prescribe it to patients.
In a small study, 14 patients who were prescribed tilorone at a dose of 152 and 189 g participated, in 2 the drug caused keratopathy and retinopathy (while visual acuity did not decrease), these effects were reversible. The authors of the study concluded that the drug has a potential health hazard.
Reviews: The occurrence of allergic reactions, the high cost of the drug.
Price: Amiksin - average 500-560 rub. Sales volume in 2012 amounted to 1.17 billion rubles.

Additionally! Medicines, the so-called immunomodulators - Licopid, Polyoxidonium, Cycloferon, Proteflazid, Timogen, Panavir, Isoprinosine, Neovir, Groprinosin, etc. - should not be used to treat children (for various diseases) without an immunogram and serious indications, since they do not have proper clinical trials of efficacy and safety in the treatment of children.

Yodantipyrine

The main active ingredient of the drug is iodophenazone, a substance that was previously used as an isotope label for scintigraphy.

Iodophenazone is an interferonogen, stabilizes cell membranes, stimulates both links of immunity.

Due to the presence of iodine, the drug is contraindicated in patients with increased thyroid function, children under 14 years of age, pregnant and lactating women. It is highly allergenic and can also cause stomach and intestinal upsets. It cannot be used for a long time.

Price: 20 tablets - 210 r, 50 tablets - 420 r.

Imupret

The drug is available in 2 forms:

1. dragees, which will need to be washed down with water;
2. drops that dissolve in water and are then taken orally.

The main substances that have an immunomodulatory and antiviral effect are a combination of marshmallow root extract, horsetail, dandelion, yarrow, chamomile, oak bark and walnut leaves. That is, the drug is completely herbal.

The manufacturer, Bionorica, reports that the combination of extracts of these herbs will relieve inflammation, disinfect mucous membranes, relieve headache and local pain, and lower body temperature.

The disadvantages of the remedy are its price and the lack of a clear evidence base for effectiveness. It rarely causes allergic reactions.

Price: about 480 rubles.

Polyoxidonium

The active substance is a bromide azoximer molecule. The drug is produced in the form of different dosage forms: tablets, suppositories, lyophilisate for intravenous or intramuscular administration (the lyophilisate can also be dissolved and instilled into the nose or under the tongue).

The domestic manufacturer, NPO Petrovax Pharm, declares the unique features of the drug: when it enters the body, azoximer bromide gently, naturally, corrects those parts of the immune system in which pathological changes have occurred. At the same time, the immune system itself is not activated and is not “spurred on”. In a few studies of the drug, it has been shown that Polyoxidonium reduces the period of intoxication in viral diseases, reduces the risk of bacterial complications of acute respiratory viral infections, and is also used in the complex treatment of such bacterial consequences.

The remedy is allowed from 3 years (in the form of tablets and drops in the nose). It is not recommended for use during breastfeeding and pregnancy. It is included in the list of essential medicines and received an award as the best immunodulator for frequently ill children.

Cons: Studies of the effectiveness of the drug are few, reviews are contradictory. Some note the occurrence of allergic reactions, and not just seals at the injection site. A number of people associate the subsequent, after a time after taking Polyoxidonium, a deterioration in the immune status, which consisted in the development of a new, serious illness.

Price: Lyophilisate 3 mg - 780 r / 5 bottles, lyophilisate 6 mg - 1200 r / 5 bottles, candles 12 mg 10 pcs - 1050 r, tablets - 780 r.

Antivirals

Below are just some antiviral medicines for SARS, reviews about them, a brief description, comments on well-known studies of their effectiveness, the average price in pharmacies.

Triazavirin

The active substance of the drug Triazavirin is a synthetic analogue of the bases of purine nucleosides (guanine) with an antiviral effect. It has a wide spectrum of antiviral activity against RNA-containing viruses. The main mechanism of action of the drug Triazavirin is the inhibition of the synthesis of viral RNA and the replication of genomic fragments.

« Triazavirin was developed against a group of RNA viruses. These include the influenza virus, and the West Nile virus, and the Zika virus was, and the coronavirus is right there. And "Triazavirin" against the Chinese coronavirus is effective due to the fact that it is one of the subspecies of this group. There will be new RNA viruses, and it will be effective.
Side effects: allergic reactions, dyspeptic disorders (diarrhea, vomiting, flatulence).
Contraindications: hypersensitivity, pregnancy, lactation, children under 18, renal / liver failure.
Price: 1250 rubles 20 tab.

Pharmacological action: the active ingredient is imidazolylethanamide pentanedioic acid. It is active against adenovirus infection, influenza A, B, respiratory syncytial infection, parainfluenza. It is an immunomodulator that affects the functional activity of the interferon system.

Side effects: allergic reactions

Contraindicated: children under 18 years of age.

Produced: as a drug for the treatment of influenza and SARS since 2008, before that, according to prof. Vlasov Vasily, the drug Vitaglutam (imidazolylethanamide of pentanedioic acid) was used in Russia until 2008 as a hematopoietic stimulator in cancer patients receiving anticancer therapy.

Research: According to the manufacturers, the idea of ​​​​producing Ingavirin originated in the 1980s, but only after many years of research on its safety and effectiveness, the drug was filed for registration by 2008. When Vitaglutam was used in patients with cancer, there was no conclusive evidence of its effectiveness. And when Ingavirin appeared on the pharmaceutical market in 2008 without full-fledged research, a “swine flu epidemic” began in the country, so Ingavirin was actively sold. The drug was recommended by the Ministry of Health and Social Development, even despite the lack of placebo-controlled studies, substantiated evidence of its effectiveness.

One study done per 105!!! patients with confirmed influenza showed the following results:

• Taking ingavirin reduced the duration of fever to 34.5 hours (provided it was used in the first 1-1.5 days from the onset of the disease)
• In the placebo group it is 72 hours
• In the group taking Arbidol - 48 hours

After analyzing the duration and intensity of flu symptoms - weakness, headache, dizziness in the study groups when taking Ingavirin, a decrease in the severity of the disease was confirmed, no side effects were detected.

In May 2009, Alexander Chuchalin, chief therapist of the Russian Federation, ( he led the drug development team) gave an interview to Ogonyok magazine: “The new antiviral agent Ingavirin has a much higher efficiency than the American one. The Russian drug quickly and easily integrates into the A/H1N1 virus genome, immediately destroying it. It is also effective against other dangerous viruses.”

Reviews: Most of the drug does not help, isolated cases confirm a reduction in the duration of the disease.

Price : 380-460 rub. From January to June 2010, Ingavirin's sales amounted to 220 million rubles, 467 thousand packages were sold .

Neovir

The active substance is sodium oxodihydroacridinyl acetate. Available as a solution for injection.

The drug acts on the cells of the immune system, causing them to produce special protective molecules upon contact with the microbe. The agent is an interferonogen, and also acts on the DNA or RNA of viruses, destroying them. Activates cell division in the bone marrow, calling for more lymphocytes to immune protection.

Cons: the drug should not be used by pregnant, lactating, people with kidney pathologies, as well as those who suffer from autoimmune diseases. May cause allergies.

Price: 3 ampoules - 670 r, 5 ampoules - 870 r.

Triazavirin

The drug is based on the antiviral agentotriazinide. The drug is of domestic origin, is available in the form of capsules.

The active substance has a feature: it is integrated into the genome (DNA or RNA) of the virus instead of one of the amino acids, as a result, the virus loses its ability to reproduce.

Triazavirin is contraindicated in children under 18 years of age, people with kidney and liver pathologies, pregnant and lactating women. This is due to the fact that the drug is not yet sufficiently studied.

Price: 20 capsules - 1100 r

Panavir

In this preparation, the immunomodulatory activity is determined by the extract of potato shoots. It is produced in various forms: as a spray for the oral cavity, rectal and vaginal suppositories, a gel for topical use, a solution for intravenous administration.

Manufacturers say that the combination of various carbohydrates and uronic acids found in potatoes, when released into the bloodstream, has an interferonogenic effect. The bactericidal effect of this drug is also noted.

If various suppositories are used to treat viral gynecological and urological diseases, then a throat spray and injection solution can be used to prevent and treat SARS and influenza. They are also prescribed for the treatment of herpes infection, tick-borne encephalitis, rheumatoid arthritis.

Cons: The antiviral effects of Panavir are recognized only in Russia, in other countries this drug is not prescribed. This is due to the fact that there is no data on the actual components of the drug: after all, with the availability of potato shoots, the remedy should not be so expensive.

Price: oral spray 300 r, rectal suppositories - 1600 r, vaginal suppositories - 1500 r, solution for intravenous administration - 3600 r

Oksolin

This is a local antiviral agent that has long been used not only for the prevention of SARS, but with its help it is possible to treat herpes infections.

The effectiveness of the drug is still controversial. Many doctors believe that it can be compared with the effectiveness of any greasy cream, which, if treated with a nose, will also contribute to the deposition of microbial particles on it.

Price: 20-40r.

Arbidol

Pharmachologic effect: An antiviral agent that has the ability to suppress influenza A and B viruses, SARS - severe acute respiratory syndrome, an associated coronavirus. Arbidol is also used in the complex therapy of acute rotavirus intestinal infections.
Active substance: Methylphenylthiomethyl-dimethylaminomethyl-hydroxybromoindole carboxylic acid ethyl ester.

Side effects: use for children under 3 years is prohibited, individual allergic reactions are possible.
Produced: invented in 1974, in 1992 its industrial production was started.

Research: Until 2013, there was no convincing evidence of its effectiveness and safety. The studies carried out in the USSR were never published. In Russia in 2008, a study of 300 people showed that Viferon was more effective than Arbidol. In 2004, in China, tests on 230 patients with symptoms of Orvi showed that it was not effective, unlike Tamiflu and Ingaverin. In 2009, in the UK journal Antiviral Research, the authors of the studies stated that strains resistant to Arbidol form less frequently than those of Remantadine and Amantadine.

The FDA denied registration of Arbidol in the US, and the WHO has never considered this drug as an effective antiviral drug.

Latest drug information: At the end of 2013, the World Health Organization registered Arbidol (umifenovir) as a direct-acting antiviral drug, assigning it an individual code J05AX13. Thus, Pharmstandard received nominal permission for the widespread use of the drug in the Russian Federation, where Arbidol is included in the standards for the treatment and prevention of influenza and SARS in children and adults.

However, the multicenter trial of the effectiveness of Arbidol, which was planned to be completed in 2013, has not been completed to this day, and its dates have been postponed to 2015. The results of this trial, which has serious sponsors and does not suffer from a lack of patients, could dot the I in the arbidol epic, but for unknown reasons this does not happen. That is there is still no evidence of effectiveness, it remains to wait ...

Reviews: The same number of positive reviews and opinions about the inefficiency of its use. There are isolated cases of allergic reactions in the form of dermatitis, pain in the epigastric region.
Price: Arbidol - average 130-710 rub. In 2012, the sales volume was over 5 billion rubles.

An analogue of Arbidol appeared on the pharmaceutical market of Belarus, the manufacturer of JLLC "Lekpharm". This is a generic drug, in Belarusian import-substituting packaging - Arpetol. The instructions for it indicate that the active substance is: arbidol hydrochloride? Once again, the commercialization of today's pharmaceutical market and the lack of proper control are proved!

Pharmachologic effect: an antiviral drug, which includes oseltamivir carboxylate (an active metabolite), suppresses influenza A and B viruses. It is not effective in ARVI.

Side effects: Nausea, insomnia, diarrhea, dizziness, lethargy, cough, headaches, take with caution to pregnant women and lactation. Contraindicated in children under 1 year old.

Available: since 1996, the pharmaceutical company "F. Hoffmann-La Roche has registered the right to develop drugs containing oseltamivir.

Research: Tamiflu has the disadvantage of making it difficult to diagnose because the side effects are similar to flu-like symptoms. This during the epidemic with long-term use becomes dangerous. Only short-term use is optimally effective - a few days at the very beginning of the flu. Independent researchers requested from the Swiss manufacturer a standard report of 4-5 study modules. To which the pharmaceutical company provided only the first modules, repeated requests for full details were never satisfied.

Since 2004, cases of neuropsychiatric disorders have been recorded, more often in children and adolescents who took Tamiflu during the flu - hallucinations, nightmares, confusion, convulsions, anxiety, etc.

Japanese post-marketing studies of this drug in 2006 announced the risk of developing disorders of consciousness in humans - psychosis, depression, suicidal tendencies, especially in children. And also 54 deaths were recorded after the use of Tamiflu, 16 of which were in adolescents 10-19 years old (15 committed suicide, 1 died after being hit by a car), the rest died from kidney failure (it is possible that due to severe influenza).

Latest information about this drug: Back in April 2014, the Cochrane Society (an independent health research network) represented by the Tom Jefferson Group and the British Medical Journal published data from a Cochrane review of studies that did not confirm the effectiveness of Tamiflu and Relenza in the treatment and prevention of influenza. The effectiveness of reducing influenza complications by taking these drugs has also been questioned. Timid attempts by the manufacturer Roche to fight back with a firm promise to provide irrefutable evidence in the form of randomized trial results have so far been unsuccessful. Evidence is pending.

On April 10, 2014, the Cochrane Collaboration published the results of these 26 Relenza and 20 Tamiflu trials, which involved 24,000 people.

As a result of the research, it was found that:

• Oseltamivir, as a prophylactic, slightly reduces the risk of developing influenza in families without reducing the ability of the influenza virus to spread from person to person.
• The duration of symptoms is reduced by 16 hours (from 7 to 6.3 days), in children this effect is completely absent.
• The drug has no effect on the risk of severe complications (sinusitis, otitis media, pneumonia, bronchitis), that is, it does not reduce the likelihood of complications.
• The drug is recognized as quite toxic, increasing the risk of nausea, vomiting in both children and adults.
• When used for prophylactic purposes, the drug turned out to be hazardous to health, since it leads to mental disorders, impaired kidney function, in some cases it has been found that it helps to reduce the production of one's own antibodies to the virus.

Based on these studies, health officials in the leading countries of the world should decide to stop mass purchases of antiviral drugs with the active ingredient Oseltamivir due to the high risk of side effects and low efficiency as a drug for the treatment and prevention of the influenza virus during the epidemic.

Reference: only on the basis of the claims of the manufacturer Tamiflu that the drug significantly reduces the risk of serious complications and hospitalization of patients during the epidemic, countries such as the UK and the USA in 2009 purchased these drugs for 40 million doses due to the swine flu epidemic ( US $1.3bn, UK £424m).

Based on the latest data on the low effectiveness and safety of this antiviral agent, an international group of experts in evidence-based medicine called on the governments of the world's leading countries to stop the bulk purchases of Tamiflu and Relenza.

Reviews: Enough reviews of side effects in the form of vomiting, dizziness, psychosis, headache. Efficiency in influenza, many confirm. Doctors of infectious diseases hospitals who themselves took oseltamivir at the first symptoms of influenza during the swine flu epidemic in 2009 testify that despite the fact that 50% of the employees were accompanied by nausea, pneumonia (probably influenza-like, but could also be bacterial) developed only in 1% of physicians working in the focus of the epidemic.

Price: Tamiflu - average 1200-1300 rub.

Remantadine (Rimantadine)

Pharmachologic effect: an antiviral drug, a derivative of adamantane, suppresses various strains of the influenza A virus (including swine flu).

Side effects: contraindicated in pregnant women, children under 1 year. Reduces concentration, causes dizziness, nervousness, headache, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth.

Produced: information about the first use of the drug has been known since 1968.

Studies: Tests were carried out from 1981 to 2006, in general they showed less toxicity of Remantadine in comparison with Amantadine. One study showed that Amantadine was 61% effective in preventing influenza infection compared to a placebo group, and if a person fell ill, it reduced the febrile syndrome for 1 day. In the same study, it was compared with Tamiflu, it produced an effectiveness of 73% of the placebo group. Rimantadine (Remantadine) is currently considered a drug with proven clinical efficacy, but some strains of the influenza virus may be resistant to it.

Reviews: There are reviews that Remantadine causes side effects - dizziness, tachycardia, mostly positive reviews.
Price: Remantadin - average 50-150 rub.

It is with influenza (including swine) at the first symptoms that therapists and pediatricians recommend: for adults - Remantadine, Tamiflu. Children older than 1 year are shown Orvirem (rimantadine syrup), Viferon. Children over 8 years old can - Remantadin (in the table), Tamiflu.

Interferon preparations

Interferons are messenger proteins released by cells infected with viruses. They seem to inform other cells about the infection and the required inactivation of the virus. Alpha interferons are produced by lymphocytes, beta - by fibroblasts. In addition to Viferon, the alpha group includes Intron, Reaferon, Kipferon.

Viferon

The creation of the drug was scientifically substantiated in the period 1990-1995. a group of scientists from the Research Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology named after N.F. Gamalei under the guidance of prof. Malinovskaya V.V.
Since December 1996, on the basis of the same research institute, serial production of recombinant interferon alfa-2b in suppositories has begun. Viferon are candles with different content of the active substance.

Application :

• Viferon-1 (150,000 IU) is designed for babies from birth to 7 years. It is used for acute respiratory viral infections, herpetic infections, as an additional remedy for prolonged pneumonia or sepsis, including in preterm infants with intrauterine infections. The drug is prescribed for 5 days. Children under 7 years old are recommended 1 candle 2 times a day. Premature, born at a period of more than 34 weeks - as children under 7 years old. With a shorter gestation period - 1 suppository three times a day. If necessary, after a five-day break, the course can be repeated for another 5 days.
• In children older than seven years, adults, the drug in suppositories of 500,000 IU is used twice a day for five days. It is possible to use viferon in pregnant women.
• Candles containing viferon 1000000 and 3000000 IU are used in the treatment of viral hepatitis and herpetic infections. The use of the same injectable forms is indicated for any (except for HIV-associated) viral meningitis: children from 7 years old are injected intravenously or intramuscularly with 1 million IU, adults - 3 or even 5 million IU daily.
• Also, doctors of infectious diseases hospitals use injectable Viferon at a dose of 2 million IU intramuscularly at the first symptoms of influenza during the epidemic (as an emergency measure in the absence of Remantadine and Tamiflu / Relenza). This increases the chance of avoiding flu complications.
• The drug in the form of an ointment is intended for the treatment of herpes on the skin and mucous membranes in adults and children over one year old.

Side effects: the main side effect of viferon suppositories can be an allergic reaction, which happens infrequently. When using injection forms, after 3-4 hours (with intramuscular injection) or within the first two hours (with intravenous administration), a sharp rise in temperature is noted. This indicates the stimulation of antiviral immunity. In this case, if the temperature rises above 38.5-39 degrees, it is recommended to take an antipyretic.

Research: With regard to the effectiveness of the drug, it is not included in list A of evidence-based pharmacology. That is, there have not been large randomized trials in humans that meet international standards. However, there is a positive practical experience of treatment with Viferon in pediatric practice. (By the way, nitroglycerin also lacks randomized trials to prove its effectiveness, which does not make it an ineffective first-line drug for angina relief.) Publications of data from clinical trials of the drug are available only in Russian and were carried out only in domestic clinics. The price-quality ratio allows pediatricians to recommend the drug for the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections in children under seven years of age. For adults in the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections, the drug has limited use due to the rectal form of administration and the availability of alternative drugs.

The main arguments of the opponents of the drug:

• high molecular weight protein molecules that cannot be absorbed in the gut
• lack of clinical trials that meet international standards.

Kipferon

Candles are somewhat expensive for the treatment of banal colds. Therefore, it is replaced by viferon. But, in severe forms of intestinal dysbacteriosis in children of the first two years of life, the drug shows good clinical results.

Studies: No randomized trials have been conducted, i.e. the drug belongs to the list of drugs with unproven effect. Main claims:

• high molecular weight that interferes with normal absorption
• adding components of donor blood to the preparation, which can cause fever and allergies.

Cycloferon

Cycloferon was originally registered as a veterinary drug in 1993 for the treatment of animals with viral infections, in 1995 it was already honey. a drug.

The drug Cycloferon is approved for use in adults and children over four years of age. Available in solution for injection, tablets, liniment. Refers to immunomodulatory drugs, is an inducer of interferon, enhancing its production and showing antiviral, anti-inflammatory and immunostimulating properties.

Application: on the territory of the Russian Federation it is used in the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections, influenza, viral hepatitis, herpes infection, human papillomaviruses and other urological and gynecological pathologies (for example, candidiasis, chlamydia).
Contraindications: The drug is not recommended for pregnant and lactating women. May cause allergic reactions.
Research: Cycloferon is an immunostimulant that stimulates the action of the immune system and the production of interferons. To date, all clinical trials of this drug, published in the medical literature, were carried out only on the territory of the Russian Federation and do not meet international standards.

There are no serious clinical trials for cycloferon that would prove its effectiveness or disprove the absence of long-term harmful effects of this drug (development of autoimmune diseases). It is not superfluous to recall that all drugs that have been on the pharmaceutical market for less than five years are still at the fifth level of pharmacological tests and it is quite likely that previously unknown adverse effects from drugs of this series will be detected. In the presence of newly identified harmful effects, the drug will be withdrawn from pharmacy chains and discontinued, and most of those who were treated with this drug and earned some kind of health failure are unlikely to receive at least some compensation.

homeopathic remedies

AGRI

The drug is available in the form of a children's and adult "version". As part of the substance (regardless of the form - child or adult):

• in one type of tablets from one package - a combination of American lacquer, bryony and sulfuric liver,
• in another type of tablets - a complex of aconite, arsenic iodide and toxicodendron.

Tablets are taken under the tongue, alternating different types of tablets - according to the instructions.

Description: AGRI is a product based on natural ingredients that has:

• anti-inflammatory;
• decongestant;
• antihistamine;
• antipyretic action.

Contraindications include only individual intolerance to the individual components of the drug. The manufacturer allows it to be used by both children and pregnant women.
Side effects: salivation, swelling of the conjunctiva or respiratory tract (this indicates an allergy to the drug, in which it must be discontinued).
Cons: unproven effectiveness, inconvenience of taking the drug.
Price: 120 r.

Engystol

Available in 2 forms:

1. Ampoules with the composition of Vincetoxicum hirundinaria D 6, D10, D30, Sulfur D4 and
2. Tablets for resorption under the tongue with a similar composition, but larger dosages of each drug.

Description : the drug has a complex anti-inflammatory, antiviral and detoxifying effect. Side effects are not described, there are no contraindications.
Cons: unproven effectiveness. On the first day of the disease, you will have to take 1 tablet every 15 minutes for 2 hours, then switch to a triple dose.

Price: 400 r for 50 tablets (11 tablets are consumed on the first day, then 3 pcs).

Aflubin

The drug is available in the form of 2 forms: tablets and drops for oral administration. Their composition is about the same. These are bryony, gentian, aconite, sacromactic acid.

Also similarly named nasal spray. It has a different composition, and is indicated for the treatment of the common cold (including allergic), pharyngitis, eustachitis, sinusitis. There is also Aflubin broncho syrup based on thyme and honey extract. It is indicated for coughing and is not an antiviral or immunomodulatory agent.

Description: It is stated that this drug is an interferonogen, and also stimulates the cellular link of immunity, stops inflammation in the mucous membranes and synovial membranes, and has a detoxifying and antipyretic effect.

Cons: The effectiveness of the drug has not been proven, while it is one of the few homeopathic remedies used in Europe.

May cause increased swelling of the nose and throat, burning sensation in the throat, increased salivation.

Price: Tablets No. 24 - 410 r, drops - 215 r, nasal spray - 360 r.

Influcid

The drug is available in the form of tablets and oral solution. It contains aconite, ipecac, bryonia, phosphorus, steap, gelsemia, evpatorium perfoliatum.

Description : as part of the drug - 6 tested homeopathic monopreparations that have proven their effectiveness (this is not recognized by the medical community) for the treatment of acute infections localized in the nasopharynx and bronchi. One of them dilutes sputum, the other relieves swelling from the nasal mucosa, the third eliminates headaches, the fourth strengthens the immune system. Evpatorium perfoliatum is a good anti-influenza homeopathic remedy

Cons : May (rarely) cause allergic reactions. Has a high cost.

Price: 60 tablets - 500 r

SARS and influenza

SARS is a group of viral diseases that are transmitted by airborne droplets and cause inflammation in the mucous membranes of the nose, pharynx, larynx and trachea. Many of them also affect the superficial structures of the eye (conjunctiva, upper sclera) and lymph nodes. Some can cause inflammation of the lower respiratory tract - the bronchi and lung tissue. A feature of respiratory viruses is a decrease in local immunity of the mucous membranes, as well as the expenditure of systemic immune defense resources, as a result, they "open the way" to bacterial complications.

There are more than 300 types of SARS viruses. One of them is the influenza virus - the most insidious and life-threatening.

The "intrigue" of the influenza virus is as follows:

• It has an extremely small size, which allows it to easily enter the body.
• It has 2 antigens on its shell - a factor of aggression. One of them - hemagglutinin - can damage red blood cells. Therefore, with influenza, nosebleeds and hemoptysis easily occur, hemorrhages also occur in internal organs: lung tissue, heart, kidneys, and brain. In addition, hemagglutinin is "responsible" for the intensity of intoxication, that is, poor health (body aches, nausea, drowsiness, loss of appetite).

The second factor of aggression - neuraminidase - strongly suppresses the immune system. Then it becomes easy for bacteria flying in the air and entering the human body to increase inflammation of the respiratory tract and cause other complications.

• Easily changes from season to season (this applies mainly to the influenza A virus, while viruses B and C are more stable). It is impossible to predict 100% which virus will "dominate" this year. This variability of the virus is due to the variability of hemagglutinin (it is marked with the letter “H”) and neuraminidase (“N”: there are 12 types of the first enzyme and 9 types of the second in total. This means that a large number of combinations can be made from them. And if a person has immunity (due to a vaccine or the fact that he once got sick) to a virus with one combination of these antigens, this does not make him resistant to a virus with a different set.

It is believed that the number of combinations for a person is not so large: it consists of 3 types of hemagglutinin and 2 types of neuraminidase (although in 2015 there was an influenza epidemic caused by the H5N1 virus). The bad thing is that with the same combination, the virus can have different antigenic properties, and the same person can get the H1N1 flu (California), and then become infected with the H1N1 flu virus (Shanghai). In addition, exchanges of individual antigens between individual strains of the A virus obtained from humans and strains obtained from animals or birds are possible. The result of this exchange is the emergence of a new, more aggressive virus.

The ability of a virus to mutate and change is the most dangerous. It makes the flu an uncontrollable and unmanageable infection. Only in "quiet" years this disease covers 30 million of the world's population. Pandemics occur when a completely new virus appears - both in terms of hemagglutinin and neuraminidase.

If the flu does not cause complications, it proceeds quite favorably (mortality - 0.01-0.2%), although it takes at least 1 year of life from a person. The mortality rate increases in:

• children under 3 years old;
• old people;
• those who have recently had a serious illness;
• people after a course of chemotherapy;
• suffering from cardiovascular or pulmonary diseases.

Findings:

The ineffectiveness of antiviral agents due to the resistance of virus strains

The absence of a positive effect when using some antiviral drugs for influenza is also possible due to the fact that drug-resistant viruses appear and a particular influenza strain may already be resistant to a particular drug (for example, Remantadine).

Other treatments and placebo effect

Strong immunity

In a healthy body, after 2-3 days, the immune system produces enough protective antibodies against the virus, it does not need additional drugs. It is enough to follow the well-known rules - bed rest, plentiful hot drinks, fortified foods and drinks, clean air in the patient's room, etc.

Speedy recovery with antiviral drugs

In various life situations, reducing the duration of the disease even by one day can be very important, for example, a wedding day, an urgent business trip, an important business deal, an exam, an interview, etc. It is in such cases that the use of antiviral agents that reduce by 2-3 days the duration of the disease may have a meaning.

No adequate research

The lack of benign studies on the effectiveness and side effects (on a large group of people, different ages, for a long time) in most antiviral agents for ARVI and influenza suggests the caution of their use or even their abandonment.

Don't waste your money on rubbish

Spending money, in some cases a lot, on drugs with unproven efficacy, side effects, and questionable safety is probably not advisable. Any medicine, even useless or dummy, can harm the body.

Video broadcast: How the placebo effect works

• from 9:24 min. - about what drugs are most often prescribed by doctors
• from 24:00 — about the effect of placebo on the functioning of the immune system
• from 31:07 — about the high placebo effect in children
• from 33:55 — about pacifier drugs prescribed for acute respiratory viral infections
• from 34:40 — about homeopathy and antiviral drugs for ARVI
• from 42:27 — about how modern research is being carried out

Video: How not to get sick with the flu.

Probably, there is not a single person who would never have a cold in his life, at least in childhood. Therefore, there is no person who would not be concerned about the question of what to take for a cold.

Colds can be different names, but they are based on one reason - infection of various parts of the body and, in particular, the upper respiratory tract, with pathogens. These microorganisms are divided into two main categories - bacteria and viruses.

Treatment of acute respiratory diseases can be both symptomatic, aimed at alleviating the manifestations of the disease, and etiological, aimed at eliminating the root cause of the disease. Fortunately, antibacterial drugs or antibiotics have long been successfully used to treat diseases caused by bacteria. But in the case of diseases caused by another group of infectious agents - viruses, the situation is not so favorable. And there are several reasons for this.

Respiratory diseases caused by viruses

What diseases are acute respiratory diseases caused by viruses? These include, first of all, influenza and SARS.

The term ARVI (acute respiratory viral infection) refers to various infections caused by viruses that are not influenza pathogens. These viruses include:

• adenoviruses,
• rhinoviruses,
• parainfluenza viruses,
• coronaviruses,
• respiratory syncytial viruses.

Respiratory symptoms are also characteristic of some other viral diseases:

• measles,
• rubella,
• chickenpox,
• whooping cough

However, they are not usually classified as viral respiratory diseases.

Symptoms of parainfluenza and SARS

Symptoms of diseases caused by different types of viruses often differ little from each other. And to determine the type of disease is usually possible only by identifying the type of pathogen, which is not always easy.

Usually ARVI is characterized by symptoms such as cough, runny nose, high temperature (sometimes subfebrile, below +38º C), sore throat, headaches, frequent sneezing. Sometimes symptoms can be accompanied by signs of intoxication - nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Most experts are of the opinion that in the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections in people with normal immunity and not weakened for some reason, the body does not need any antiviral agents. These diseases, with the right approach to their treatment, go away on their own, and do not cause any complications. Therefore, the treatment of these diseases is mainly symptomatic. The only exception is syncytial infection, which can be fatal in infants.

Treatment for diseases such as SARS comes down mainly to bed rest, the creation of normal conditions for recovery - the absence of drafts, hypothermia of the body. It is also necessary to drink plenty of liquids, always warm, for example, tea with lemon. Taking vitamins and antioxidants also aids in recovery. For the treatment of a runny nose, you can use anti-inflammatory or nose-cleansing drops, for the treatment of bronchi and throat - inhalations that relieve inflammation based on herbal infusions. Good nutrition is also an important element of therapy.

Photo: Nestor Rizhniak/Shutterstock.com

Influenza and its characteristic symptoms

Influenza symptoms often differ from those of other viral respiratory illnesses. However, this difference may not always appear. Often, in the case of high immunity or a weakened type of virus, the symptoms of influenza practically do not differ from the symptoms of SARS. However, there are a few key features to watch out for.

First of all, most varieties of influenza are characterized by a very high temperature, which can rise to +39.5 - +40ºС. The temperature usually rises to high levels in a short period of time. Thus, if the temperature is subfebrile at first, and then, after a couple of days, rises to high values, then this most likely means not the presence of the flu, but some kind of secondary infection such as pneumonia.

Also, with influenza, there is such a characteristic symptom as implicit pain in the muscles of the body, especially in the limbs (ache). This symptom can be characteristic both for the early stage of the disease, appearing a few hours before the temperature rise, and for the period when the temperature has already risen. Respiratory symptoms with influenza are usually erased compared to SARS. In most cases, with the flu, a runny nose is absent, but a strong cough may be present.

Influenza, unlike SARS, is dangerous for its complications affecting other organs - the heart, kidneys, lungs, liver. A severe form of influenza is very dangerous - toxic influenza, in which death from intoxication of the body is possible.

Influenza is usually transmitted by airborne droplets, from sick to healthy people. The influenza virus is sufficiently resistant to external influences and can persist in the external environment for a long time. The incubation period of the disease usually ranges from several hours to several days.

Experts believe that influenza most often manifests itself at ambient temperatures ranging from -5ºС to +5ºС. At these temperatures, the virus can survive for a long time. In addition, such a temperature regime contributes to the drying of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract and makes them more susceptible to the virus.

There are several varieties of the influenza virus. And not all drugs are able to affect all these types. Treatment of influenza is mainly symptomatic. Taking antiviral drugs for influenza is indicated in case of a severe course of the disease, as well as with weakened immunity. It can be both etiotropic drugs and drugs - stimulants of immunity. Thanks to their use, it is often possible to reduce the duration of the disease and avoid possible serious complications.

How does a viral disease develop?

Unlike diseases caused by bacteria, viruses that enter the body directly attack human cells. The virus is usually very simple. As a rule, it is a single DNA molecule, and sometimes a simpler RNA molecule containing genetic information. In addition, the virus also contains a shell of proteins. However, some types of viruses - viroids - may not have it either.

Viruses are able to integrate into the genetic apparatus of cells, and reconfigure it to release their own copies. Without the help of cells from other organisms, viruses cannot reproduce.

Features of the structure of viruses that cause SARS and influenza

Most of the viruses in this group belong to the type of RNA viruses. The only exception is adenovirus, which has a DNA molecule.

Influenza viruses are divided into three main serotypes - A, B, and C. The most common diseases are caused by the first two types. The type C virus only causes illness in immunocompromised people, children, and the elderly. Epidemics of diseases caused by this type of virus do not exist, while epidemics caused by viruses of types A and B occur very often - once every few years in a certain area.

The surface of the RNA molecule of the virus is covered with several protein molecules, among which neuraminidase should be distinguished. This enzyme facilitates the penetration of the virus into the cell and then ensures the exit of new viral particles from it. Influenza viruses primarily infect the epithelial cells that line the surface of the upper respiratory tract.

Of course, the immune system is also not “sitting on its hands”. Immune cells, detecting the presence of strangers, produce special substances - interferons, which suppress the vital activity of viruses and prevent their penetration into cells. In addition, special types of lymphocytes - T-killers and NK-lymphocytes destroy cells affected by viruses.

However, viral diseases, including those caused by influenza viruses, claim many lives each year.

The peculiarity of viruses is their increased ability to change. This leads to the fact that protein molecules on the surface of viruses can change their composition very quickly, and as a result, immune forces are far from always able to recognize them in time as an object that has already been encountered before.

Therefore, scientists have long wanted to develop tools that would be active against various viruses. However, this task faces many difficulties. They consist, first of all, in the fact that viral particles are very small and extremely primitive even in comparison with bacteria. And this means that they have very few vulnerabilities.

However, some antivirals have been developed. In particular, many of them are active against viruses that cause SARS and influenza.

Types of antivirals

Antiviral agents aimed directly at fighting viruses can be divided into four main groups:

• vaccines;
• immunostimulants and interferon inducers;
• preparations containing interferon;
• direct-acting antiviral drugs (etiotropic).

There are many antiviral agents belonging to various groups, and it is not easy to single out the most effective drug among them.

Antiviral vaccines

Vaccination was invented in the late 18th century. Over time, it has become widely used as a prophylactic to combat various diseases, including viral ones.

The essence of vaccination is to give the body's immune system information about the infectious agent in advance. The fact is that the immune system often recognizes the danger too late, when the infection has already spread throughout the body. And if the immune system is set up in advance to fight the desired agent, then it will instantly enter into a fight with it and easily neutralize it.

When vaccinating against viruses, a vaccine is introduced into the blood - a substance containing the protein shells of viruses, or somehow weakened viruses. These components are unable to cause disease, but they are able to train immune cells to deal with strangers. Thus, if real viruses enter the body, then, as a rule, they are neutralized very quickly. Vaccine immunity can last for many years.

As for the flu, there are several types of viruses that cause this disease. Most of them have vaccines.

Vaccines can be of several types. There are vaccines containing live but weakened viruses. There are also vaccines containing inactivated virus components. Usually, one vaccine contains the material of several varieties of viruses, which is regularly updated, in accordance with the mutations that the substances that make up the shells of these infectious agents undergo.

Influenza vaccination, in the first place, should be carried out for people in certain risk groups:

• Age over 65 years;
• Those with respiratory diseases;
• Taking drugs that depress the immune system, cytostatics, corticosteroids;
• Patients with diabetes;
• Children;
• Women in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy.

Unlike the flu, there are currently no vaccines to prevent SARS.

Influvac A vaccine designed to protect the body from infection with influenza viruses. Contains proteins - hemagglutinin and neuraminidase, characteristic of two influenza type A strains (H3N2 and H1N1) and one type B strain. Each component is contained in an amount of 15 mg per 0.5 ml. Release form: suspension for injection, equipped with disposable syringes. Indications: prevention of influenza. Contraindications: tendency to allergic reactions when injected, acute diseases. Application: The vaccine can be administered subcutaneously or intramuscularly. The standard dose is 0.5 ml for adults and children over 6 years of age, 0.25 ml for children under 6 years of age. For people who have a weakened immune system or who have not previously been vaccinated, the vaccine is administered twice with a break of a month, in other cases - once. The procedure is recommended to be carried out in the fall.

Antivirals that boost immunity

Any virus that enters the body meets with its protective forces - immunity. Human immunity is divided into two types: specific and nonspecific. Specific immunity is developed against a specific type of infectious agents, while non-specific immunity has a universal effect and can be directed against any type of infection. Antiviral drugs based on strengthening immunity use its non-specific variety.

Preparations with interferons

This class of antiviral agents contains interferons, special substances secreted by immune cells to fight viruses. Usually, interferon in such antiviral drugs is obtained artificially with the help of special bacteria. Interferon attaches to cell walls and prevents viruses from entering them. On the other hand, viruses are able to block the production of interferon by cells, which makes it easier for them to penetrate them. Thus, preparations containing interferon are designed to compensate for the lack of natural interferon observed during viral infections.

Information about the effectiveness of antiviral drugs of this class is contradictory. Many people claim that they helped them, although the results of clinical trials do not allow us to speak with confidence about these drugs as an effective remedy. In addition, they tend to have many side effects. Among them, it is worth noting the high probability of allergic reactions.

The list of popular drugs of this type includes Grippferon, Alfaron, Interferon, Viferon, Kipferon.

Viferon

The drug contains interferon type alpha 2b. In the synthesis of this substance, the bacteria of Escherichia coli were used. The preparation also contains vitamins C and E. The preparation can be used as an antiviral medicine. It is active against the causative agents of major respiratory infections, as well as hepatitis and herpes viruses.

Kipferon

The drug for the treatment of influenza and SARS. The medicine is available in the form of suppositories. Contains immunoglobulins and human leukocyte interferon. Fat and paraffin are used as additional components. The drug is active not only against viruses (ARVI, influenza and hepatitis viruses), but also against a number of bacterial infections, in particular chlamydia.

Grippferon

Produced as a solution for nasal use, contains human leukocyte interferon, has immunomodulatory properties. It also contains some excipients. It is intended mainly for the treatment of viral infections of the upper respiratory tract.

Grippferon Immunomodulatory drug for the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections, also active against influenza viruses. Contains human interferon alfa-2b. The therapeutic effect is due to the effect on the cells of the body, which become immune to the introduction of viral particles. Can be used to treat infants. Release form: bottles of 5 and 10 ml, equipped with a dropper. Indications: influenza and SARS, treatment and prevention. Contraindications: severe allergic diseases. Application: The drug is instilled into each nasal passage. Dosage for treatment: up to a year - 1 drop 5 times a day; 1-3 years - 2 drops 3-4 times a day; 3-14 years - 2 drops 4-5 times a day; over 14 years old - 3 drops 5-6 times a day. In the prevention of the disease (in case of contact with a patient or a high probability of infection), the dosage is similar to the dosage for treatment at the appropriate age, but instillation is performed only 2 times a day.

Antiviral immunostimulating agents

Unlike interferons, antiviral immunostimulants do not directly attack viruses, but stimulate the immune system to produce its own interferons. These are inexpensive, but quite effective means. The advantage of this type of drugs, compared with drugs containing interferon, is that they are much less likely to cause side effects in the form of allergic reactions. Examples of such drugs are Ingavir, Kagocel, Cycloferon, Lavomax, Tsitovir. Which of them is most effective in ARVI, it is difficult to say unequivocally. All of them differ somewhat in their action and contraindications, and in order to know which one to choose, it is best to seek the advice of a specialist.

The effectiveness of antiviral immunostimulating agents, judging by the reviews, is quite high. However, many people who are passionate about such remedies do not think about how often you can drink them. Doctors warn of the harm that uncontrolled use of immune stimulants can lead to. The fact is that with the regular use of stimulants, there is a violation of the functioning of one's own immunity. The body gets used to the stimulation and is unable to respond to the infection on its own, which can cause complications of infectious diseases. The second danger associated with immune stimulants is that immune cells can begin to attack the tissues of their own body, which is the cause of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's syndrome, lupus erythematosus, and some others.

Cytovir

Contains bendazol, a substance that stimulates the formation of interferons. Other active substances are ascorbic acid and thymogen, which increase the body's resistance to infection. Available in three main dosage forms - capsules, syrup and powder for solution. It can be used as a medicine that helps against influenza and SARS.

Kagocel

One of the best-selling drugs on the Russian market. Developed in the late 1980s. in Soviet Union. One of the main active ingredients is derived from cotton and is a copolymer of gossypol. Another component is cellulose glycolic acid. The combination of these components leads to increased secretion of interferon by immune cells. It should be noted that pure gossypol is known as a drug that adversely affects male spermatogenesis. And although the developers claim that this substance in its pure form in the preparation contains an insignificant amount, this circumstance makes us wary.

Amiksin

A drug that stimulates the production of various types of interferons - leukocyte (alpha type), gamma, and fibroblast interferon. A powerful tool that is active against various viruses, including viruses that cause SARS, herpes and hepatitis. The drug was developed in the United States about half a century ago, but was soon banned there due to its side effects. In particular, it was found that the main component of the drug is capable of causing damage to the retina. However, in the countries of the former USSR, this drug is actively sold under various brand names.

Cycloferon

Currently, it is one of the most popular drugs on the market from the class of immunostimulants. The active substance is meglumine acridone acetate. The drug can be administered into the body parenterally, as well as taken in the form of tablets. Judging by the reviews, the drug has a high effect. However, it is interesting to note that the main active ingredient was originally used in veterinary medicine. But already a few years after the start of its use in this capacity, the drug was registered as a drug for the treatment of infectious diseases in humans. At the same time, manufacturers recommend using the drug even for the treatment of children from 4 years old.

Kagocel Antiviral tablets belonging to the class of interferon inducer drugs. Stimulates the activity of the immune system against bacteria and viruses. Release form: tablets containing the active substance (kagocel) at a dosage of 12 mg, as well as calcium stearate, starch, lactose, povidone. Indications: treatment and prevention of influenza, acute respiratory viral infections, acute respiratory infections, as well as herpes simplex. Contraindications: pregnancy and lactation, age up to 3 years. Side effects: allergic reactions are possible. Application: 2 tablets 3 times a day in the first two days of the disease, in the next two days - 1 tablet 3 times a day. The course of treatment is 4 days. Taking the drug is not associated with food intake.

Antiviral etiotropic drugs (drugs of direct action)

This type of drugs acts directly on influenza or SARS viruses. In this case, mechanisms can be used that impede the replication of the virus, or its penetration into cells. Some drugs can also have a mild stimulating effect on the immune system.

Amantadines

These are first-generation antiviral etiotropic drugs, otherwise called M2-channel blockers. The mechanism of their action is based on the disruption of the work of certain enzymes that ensure the reproduction of the virus in the cell. The main drugs of the class are deutiforin, amantadine, midantan and rimantadine. Amantadines are also effective against some other types of viruses, such as adenoviruses and herpes viruses.

Remantadine

One of the first representatives of the group of direct-acting antiviral drugs. At the time of its introduction (early 1960s), it seemed like a real breakthrough in the fight against influenza. The drug has shown its effectiveness in many clinical trials.

The drug was developed in the USA, but in the Soviet Union, the pharmaceutical industry also quickly launched the release of this drug. With its help, it was possible to significantly reduce the time spent on treating patients with influenza, which resulted in significant savings on the scale of the Soviet economy.

However, it soon became clear that influenza viruses quickly developed resistance to this drug and mutated in such a way that they became practically invulnerable to it. Recent studies show that more than 90% of influenza viruses are resistant to rimantadine, which makes it practically useless in the treatment of this disease.

In addition, the drug was initially active only against type A influenza virus and did not affect type B viruses. Thus, rimantadine in terms of treating influenza today is more of historical interest. However, this medicine cannot be called completely useless, since it has been found to be effective against the tick-borne encephalitis virus.

Remantadine is available in two main dosage forms - 50 mg tablets and syrup. The standard duration of treatment is 5 days, under certain conditions this time can be extended up to two weeks.

Neuramidase inhibitors

These are more modern and effective direct-acting antiviral drugs. Their antiviral mechanism is based on blocking the enzyme, due to which the virus leaves the infected cell and also penetrates into healthy cells. Since the virus cannot enter the cell, it is easily destroyed by the immune forces of the body. To date, drugs of this group are most often used among direct-acting viral etiotropic drugs intended to combat influenza.

The main members of the class are oseltamivir, marketed under the brand name Tamiflu, and the drug Relenza (zanamivir). There is also a new generation drug - Peramivir (Rapivab), which has shown high efficiency in uncomplicated influenza. This drug is intended primarily for parenteral administration.

However, it should be noted that the drugs of this group have a number of disadvantages. In the case of mild, uncomplicated influenza, their effectiveness is usually relatively low, but the number of side effects is quite high. Neuramidiase inhibitors are also quite toxic. The frequency of side effects when taking them is 1.5%. Medicines are prescribed with caution to patients with a tendency to bronchospasm. In addition, they cannot be attributed to cheap drugs.

Tamiflu

This drug was developed in the USA in the late 1980s. Initially, it was planned to be used in the fight against the AIDS virus, but then it turned out that oseltamivir was not dangerous for this virus. However, instead, it was found that the drug is active against pathogens of influenza types A and B. The drug is most effective in severe forms of influenza due to its ability to suppress the formation of cytokines and prevent inflammation and an excessive immune response in the form of a cytokine storm. To date, this remedy, perhaps, tops the rating in terms of effectiveness among other etiotropic drugs.

When choosing a dosage, the patient's condition, the nature of the disease, the presence of chronic diseases should be taken into account. The standard duration of the course of treatment is 5 days, the dosage is 75-150 mg.

However, it is worth noting that the drug does not act against ARVI pathogens. In addition, an overdose of the drug and its uncontrolled use, including for preventive purposes, can lead to very serious health consequences, for example, to mental disorders.

Relenza

Like Tamiflu, it belongs to the group of neuramidase inhibitors. It is an effective antiviral drug, a structural analogue of sialic acid. Unlike oseltamivir, this flu medicine is not available in tablets, but in special blisters intended for use in an inhaler - a diskhaler. This method allows you to deliver the drug directly to the respiratory tract affected by the virus and ensure the most effective effect of the drug on the infectious agent.

Relenza Etiotropic antiviral agent. Active against influenza A and B pathogens. The active substance is zanamivir, which belongs to the category of neuramidase inhibitors. Release form: powder for inhalation, as well as a special device for inhalation - a diskhaler. One dose contains 5 mg of the active ingredient. Indications: treatment and prevention of type A and B viruses in adults and children. Contraindications: use the drug with caution in patients prone to bronchospasm. Application: Diskhaler is used for inhalation. The blisters with the drug are inserted into a special disk on the diskhaler. Then the blister is punctured, after which the drug can be inhaled through the mouthpiece.

Tamiflu Etiotropic antiviral drug. It is intended for the destruction of influenza viruses types A and B. The active substance is oseltamivir. Release form: Gelatin capsules with a dosage of 30, 45 and 75 mg, as well as powder for suspension in 30 g vials. Indications: prevention and treatment of influenza. The drug is recommended to be used from the age of 1 year. In some cases (with pandemics of the disease), treatment of children from 6 months is allowed. Contraindications: age up to 6 months, chronic renal failure, low creatinine clearance (less than 10 ml / min). Side effects: headaches, insomnia, convulsions, dizziness, weakness, cough, nausea. Application: It is better to take the drug during meals, although this is not a strict recommendation. Children from 13 years of age and adults are prescribed 75 mg 2 times a day. The course of treatment is 5 days. The daily dosage for children under 12 years of age depends on body weight: More than 40 kg - 150 mg; 23-40 kg - 120 mg; 15-23 kg - 90 mg; less than 15 kg - 60 mg. The daily dose should be divided into two doses.

Arbidol

A domestic drug that was developed back in the 1980s. The active substance is umifenovir. Unlike neuraminidase inhibitors, the action of umifenovir is aimed at inhibiting another viral protein, hemagglutinin. However, this method also prevents the penetration of the virus into the cells. In addition, the drug is able to provide moderate stimulation of the body's immune forces. Arbidol can also treat not only the flu, but also SARS. In Belarus, a structural analogue of this drug is produced - Arpetol.

Reviews about the drug are mostly positive. However, the fact that the only serious study of the effectiveness of the drug was sponsored by its own manufacturer, Pharmstandard, cannot but be alarming. Therefore, today Arbidol cannot be unequivocally attributed to drugs with proven effectiveness.

Arbidol Antiviral drug. The active substance is umifenovir. Combines etiotropic action and stimulation of immunity. It is active against pathogens of influenza types A and B, coronaviruses that cause severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). Release form: Capsules containing 50 mg of umifenovir. Indications: Prevention and treatment of influenza, SARS, SARS. Contraindications: age up to 3 years, individual intolerance to the components of the drug. Side effects: allergic reactions Application: The drug is taken before meals. Dosage depends on age: Adults and children over 12 years old - 200 mg; 6-12 years - 100 mg; 3-6 years - 50 mg. In the prevention of influenza and SARS during epidemics, the indicated doses are taken 2 times a week. The maximum duration of the prophylaxis course is weeks. In the treatment of influenza and SARS, the indicated doses are taken 4 times a day. The course of treatment is 5 days.

Rebetol

This drug is not designed to fight influenza viruses, but to fight other viruses, such as rhinosincitial virus. Most often, this infection occurs in children, in whom it occurs in a complex form. However, it can also be used as an anti-influenza agent, although with less effect. In addition, the drug can be used in the treatment of herpes. With ARVI, the drug is injected into the focus of inflammation by inhalation. Other drug names are Virazole and Ribavirin. The drug is contraindicated in pregnancy.

Symptomatic drugs

Contrary to popular belief, these drugs are not antiviral drugs. They are intended only to relieve the unpleasant symptoms of influenza and SARS - pain and fever. However, this does not negate the fact that symptomatic medicines are a good remedy for colds. They usually contain anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-inflammatory drugs - paracetamol, acetylsalicylic acid, ibuprofen, sometimes antioxidants - ascorbic acid, less often - antihistamines and vasoconstrictors such as phenylephinephrine. Thus, they have no effect on influenza or SARS viruses. Although the names of many of these drugs can mislead an inexperienced person. For example, the symptomatic drug Theraflu can be confused with the etiotropic drug Tamiflu.

There are also combined preparations, including etiotropic agents and symptomatic ones - for example, Anvivir containing rimantadine and paracetamol.

It should be noted that the simultaneous appointment of interferon inducers and antipyretics, which is practiced by some doctors, does not make much sense. Indeed, with an increase in temperature, on the contrary, there is an increase in the production of interferon, and an artificial decrease in temperature nullifies this process.

homeopathic remedies

It is worth noting such a type of drugs as homeopathic remedies for the treatment of viral diseases of the upper respiratory tract. Around homeopathy there are fierce disputes, it has both supporters and opponents. However, it is indisputable that almost all homeopathic preparations do not directly affect viruses, and therefore it is very difficult to classify them as antiviral. For example, such a popular French anti-flu drug as Oscillococcinum contains liver components from Muscovy duck as an active ingredient. In this case, it is not at all clear on what basis such a component was classified as an effective remedy for flu and colds. Nevertheless, the drug is actively sold and enjoys traditional popularity, including in our country. Needless to say, drugs of this kind are an obvious example of the use of the autosuggestion effect inherent in people (the placebo effect) by clever businessmen.

Antiviral drugs for influenza and SARS - benefit or harm?

In our country, the number of cases of respiratory diseases is especially high, given the cold climate, long winter and off-season. All this creates a demand for drugs for colds and flu. Of course, pharmaceutical manufacturers cannot ignore such a potentially huge market. And they fill it with drugs of sometimes dubious quality and dubious effectiveness, promoting them with the help of aggressive advertising, claiming that the best drug today is this particular remedy and no other. At present, a person who comes to a pharmacy, as a rule, has no difficulty in choosing antiviral agents. There are a lot of them, for every taste, and among them there are many drugs that are affordable. But, as you know, free cheese is only in a mousetrap.

As shown above, ideal antiviral drugs do not exist. Interferon preparations have many side effects, and of this kind, which may appear after a long time. Now more and more information is accumulating that their regular use increases the risk of autoimmune diseases - lupus erythematosus, Sjögren's syndrome, psoriasis, insulin-dependent diabetes and even cancer. Particular care should be taken by those patients who have relatives suffering from autoimmune diseases. Also, drugs of this type should be used with caution in the treatment of children.

Interferon preparations, in addition, can cause severe allergic reactions. In addition, their effectiveness is highly questionable. In principle, the same can be said about antiviral immunostimulants. It is worth noting that in most Western countries such drugs are practically not used. The concept of treatment of respiratory diseases widespread there recognizes only etiotropic or symptomatic treatment, and antiviral immunomodulators are prescribed to patients only in exceptional cases.

As for etiotropic drugs, they also cannot be called an ideal choice. Although they have a much greater evidence base, nevertheless, their effectiveness is often greatly exaggerated due to advertising from manufacturers. In addition, such old drugs as rimantadine have already lost a significant portion of their effectiveness due to the formation of a huge number of virus strains resistant to their action.

Neuramidase inhibitors appear to be most effective. However, at the same time, they have high toxicity and a limited spectrum of action, covering only influenza viruses. Therefore, given that they are most effective in the first days after the onset of the disease, they can only be used when there is complete certainty that the disease is caused by the influenza virus, and not by something else. And needless to say, it is usually not possible to determine the type of pathogen at the beginning of the disease. Otherwise, the use of these drugs will simply be a waste of money. By the way, given type drugs are by no means cheap.

The only way to fight viral infections with antiviral drugs that has a minimum of side effects is vaccination. However, it cannot be considered a panacea. It has some limitations, since there are so many strains of influenza and it is absolutely impossible to come up with a vaccine that would be effective against everyone. To some extent, however, this is offset by the fact that the biological material contained in vaccines is constantly updated.

Therefore, one should consider whether it is worth using this kind of treatment at all, which can bring more problems than the disease itself. It should be noted that most people underestimate the power of their own immunity. Compliance with simple rules - bed rest, plenty of warm drinks, taking vitamins and a proper diet in most cases put a person on his feet in about the same time as treatment with newfangled antiviral drugs. Their use may still be justified in case of influenza with a high temperature, but the use of the same immunomodulators in the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections is generally not recommended.

Also, do not abuse the reception of symptomatic drugs. After all, the same high temperature is a protective reaction of the body to the invasion of viruses and bacteria. At high temperatures, the production of interferons increases, making the cells of the body immune to viral infection. By lowering the temperature artificially, we actually forbid the body to fight infection. Therefore, you should not bring down the temperature, at least if it does not pass the critical mark of +39º degrees.

The situation is further complicated by the peculiarities of our mentality. It is no secret that many people, faced with acute respiratory infections and influenza, do not seek to be cured, but simply to quickly return to their normal lives, go to work, etc. This not only leads to the fact that all the surrounding people become infected, but also to the fact that as a result a person does not cure the disease, which becomes chronic. A cold carried on the legs has a much more harmful effect on the body than refusing to take antiviral drugs.

However, most people understand that this behavior is not correct, but they resort to another, seemingly more correct means - swallowing bundles of anti-virus agents. And at the same time, it seems to be really getting better, but at the same time it destroys your body. Meanwhile, it is worth considering that health is much more expensive than a couple of extra days spent on sick leave.

Of course, these tips are suitable for people with a healthy immune system. However, not everyone can boast of it. Now there are many people whose immunity is weakened. Their disease can be delayed, which ultimately threatens with various complications. In this case, taking antiviral pills is justified. However, the fact of having a weakened immune system should not be established on the basis of individual feelings - I have a runny nose every month, which means I need to buy drugs with interferons or immunomodulators, but on the basis of thorough studies of the state of the immune system. The selection of antiviral drugs should also be careful. Which one is best suited in a particular case, the doctor should tell. It is necessary to use the drug in accordance with its recommendations and instructions.

And, of course, treatment with these drugs should not be taken as natural. Once cured with antiviral drugs, you should not rely on the fact that the next time miraculous drugs will help get rid of the disease. Measures should be taken to strengthen the immune system. There are many natural ways to do this - hardening, regular walks in the fresh air, proper nutrition and daily routine, proper rest, physical education and sports.

Also, measures aimed at preventing diseases should not be ignored. It should be borne in mind that influenza and SARS viruses are quite resistant to adverse factors and can exist in the external environment for a long time. Therefore, it is necessary to regularly carry out hygiene procedures, especially during a period of increased morbidity - wash your hands after coming from the street, regularly rinse your mouth and rinse the nasal cavity, and avoid communicating with patients with respiratory diseases. Chronic diseases should also be treated in a timely manner, since it is well known that viruses multiply most intensively in an organism weakened by the fight against chronic diseases. And, of course, it is worth getting rid of bad habits. After all, it is well known that smoking significantly weakens the immune forces of the tissues of the upper respiratory tract, which leads to increased vulnerability to infectious diseases, including viral ones.

It should also be taken into account that it is necessary to start antiviral drug therapy as early as possible, at the first signs of the disease. Otherwise, the treatment will not be effective.

In addition, before starting treatment with antiviral drugs, you should make sure that the respiratory disease is really caused by viruses and not bacteria. Otherwise, antiviral therapy will be completely useless.

Popular antivirus tools, type

A drug	Type of
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Interferon	interferon drug
Influvac	vaccine
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Kipferon	interferon drug
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Oscillococcinum	homeopathic remedy
Relenza	etiotropic drug
rimantadine	etiotropic drug
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