With chickenpox
| A runny nose is one of the most common symptoms of ARVI. It is advisable to start therapy aimed at combating the causative virus from the first hours of the disease. The virus, having entered the body, begins to multiply rapidly, and the sooner the fight begins to eliminate it, the easier the disease can progress. As soon as your throat becomes sore and nasal discharge begins to bother you, it is advisable to immediately begin treatment. VIFERON gel strengthens local immunity and blocks the multiplication of the virus, which helps cope with the disease and its symptoms. |
For stomatitis
| The use of the drug for stomatitis (damage to the oral mucosa) caused by herpetic infection helps strengthen local immunity, as well as combat the multiplication of the virus in cells. Since the gel has a consistency that can retain its shape and has elasticity and plasticity, it promotes maximum absorption of active substances into the site of inflammation, stopping it. To treat stomatitis, the drug must be applied to the affected areas 3-5 times a day for 5-6 days. |
For condylomas
| To combat the human papillomavirus and its manifestations in the form of condylomas, the drug VIFERON Suppositories (suppositories) is used. The recommended dose for adults is 500,000 IU, 1 suppository 2 times a day every 12 hours every day for 5-10 days. According to clinical indications, therapy can be continued. You can read more about this in scientific articles and in the “For Specialists” section. |
For the flu
| Human recombinant interferon alpha-2b with antioxidants, which are part of the drug, helps fight influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections at any stage of the disease. It has a powerful antiviral effect and allows you to shorten the overall duration of the disease, quickly cope with the manifestations of infection (runny nose, cough, weakness, fever, etc.), and also reduces the likelihood of developing complications and subsequent diseases. |
For the prevention of viral diseases
| Since cold and flu viruses most often enter the body through the nose, it is important to block the path to infection at this point. To do this, you need to apply a drug to the nasal mucosa that is convenient and easy to use. VIFERON Gel forms a thin protective layer that prevents the possible penetration of viruses and strengthens local immunity. The drug has a prolonged effect, so for prevention it is enough to apply the gel to the nasal mucosa only 2 times a day. |
Nosological classification (ICD-10)
- A08.4 Viral intestinal infection, unspecified
- A41.9 Septicemia, unspecified
- A49 Bacterial infection of unspecified localization
- A49.3 Mycoplasma infection, unspecified
- A56 Other chlamydial sexually transmitted diseases
- A59 Trichomoniasis
- A59.0 Urogenital trichomoniasis
- A60 Anogenital herpetic viral infection [herpes simplex]
- A63.8 Other specified diseases predominantly sexually transmitted
- A74.8 Other chlamydial diseases
- A74.9 Chlamydial infection, unspecified
- A87 Viral meningitis
- B00 Infections caused by herpes simplex virus
- B00.0 Herpetic eczema
- B00.1 Herpetic vesicular dermatitis
- B00.8 Other forms of herpes infections
- B16 Acute hepatitis B
- B17.1 Acute hepatitis C
- B18 Chronic viral hepatitis
- B18.8 Other chronic viral hepatitis
- B19 Viral hepatitis, unspecified
- B25.9 Cytomegalovirus disease, unspecified
- B34 Viral infection of unspecified localization
- B37 Candidiasis
- B37.3 Candidiasis of the vulva and vagina (N77.1*)
- B97.7 Papillomaviruses
- G00 Bacterial meningitis, not elsewhere classified
- G03.9 Meningitis, unspecified
- J06 Acute upper respiratory tract infections of multiple and unspecified localization
- J11 Influenza, virus not identified
- J12.9 Viral pneumonia, unspecified
- J16.0 Pneumonia caused by chlamydia
- J18 Pneumonia without specifying the pathogen
- K74 Fibrosis and cirrhosis of the liver
- N39.0 Urinary tract infection without established location
- N49 Inflammatory diseases of the male genital organs, not elsewhere classified
- N76 Other inflammatory diseases of the vagina and vulva
- O35.3 Fetal injury (suspected) due to maternal viral disease requiring maternal medical attention
- O35.8 Other fetal anomalies and lesions (suspected) requiring maternal medical attention
Compound
| Ointment for local and external use | 1 g |
| active substance: | |
| interferon human recombinant alpha-2 | 40000 IU |
| excipients: tocopherol acetate - 0.02 g; anhydrous lanolin - 0.34 g; medical petroleum jelly - 0.45 g; peach oil - 0.12 g; purified water - up to 1 g |
| Gel for local and external use | 1 g |
| active substance: | |
| interferon human recombinant alpha-2b | 36000 IU |
| excipients: alpha-tocopherol acetate - 0.055 g; methionine - 0.0012 g; benzoic acid - 0.00128 mg; citric acid monohydrate - 0.001 g; sodium tetraborate decahydrate - 0.0018 mg; sodium chloride - 0.004 g; human serum albumin solution 10% - 0.02 g; distilled glycerin (glycerol) - 0.02 g; carmellose sodium - 0.02 g; ethanol 95% - 0.055 g; purified water - up to 1 g |
| Suppositories for rectal use | 1 sup. |
| active substance: | |
| interferon human recombinant alpha-2b | 150000 IU |
| 500000 IU | |
| 1000000 IU | |
| 3000000 IU | |
| excipients: alpha-tocopherol acetate - 0.055/0.055/0.055/0.055 g; ascorbic acid - 0.0054/0.0081/0.0081/0.0081 g; sodium ascorbate - 0.0108/0.0162/0.0162/0.0162 g; disodium edetate dihydrate - 0.0001/0.0001/0.0001/0.0001 g; polysorbate 80 - 0.0001/0.0001/0.0001/0.0001 g | |
| base: cocoa butter and confectionery fat - up to 1 g |
Pharmacodynamics
Human recombinant interferon alpha-2b has pronounced immunomodulatory, antiviral, antiproliferative properties, suppresses the replication of RNA and DNA viruses.
The complex composition of the drugs (ointment, suppositories, gel) causes a number of new additional effects: in the presence of antioxidants (tocopherol acetate and/or ascorbic acid), the specific antiviral activity of human recombinant alpha-2b interferon increases, its immunomodulatory effect on T- and B-lymphocytes increases , the level of secretory immunoglobulins of class A increases, the level of immunoglobulin E normalizes, and the functioning of the endogenous interferon alpha-2b system is restored. Ascorbic acid and alpha-tocopherol acetate, being highly active antioxidants, have anti-inflammatory, membrane stabilizing, and regenerating properties. The use of the drug VIFERON® as part of complex therapy makes it possible to reduce therapeutic doses of antibacterial and hormonal drugs, as well as reduce the toxic effects of this therapy.
It has been established that when using the drug VIFERON® there are no side effects that occur with parenteral administration of interferon alfa-2b preparations, and no antibodies are formed that neutralize the antiviral activity of interferon alfa-2b.
Ointment "Viferon": composition, description
This is an antiviral drug that strengthens the immune system. The composition contains interferon protein, which belongs to the alpha-2b type. Available in different forms:
- ointment;
- candles;
- gel.
It is used for the prevention and treatment of diseases associated with viruses. Thanks to the destruction of pathogenic microorganisms, patients can use significantly less hormonal drugs and antibiotics, which makes them feel better and has a positive effect on their health.
The effect on the body is complex:
- antiviral – for the treatment of herpes, influenza, hepatitis, among others;
- restoration of the interferon synthesis system;
- antibacterial – treatment of mixed infections;
- stimulation of systems that synthesize antibodies;
- strengthening the immune system.
The drug stabilizes the membranes of body cells, promotes tissue regeneration, and has anti-inflammatory and powerful antioxidant effects. This contributes not only to cure from infectious pathologies, but to relatively rapid recovery.
The ointment or gel can only be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature in the range of 2-8°C. The place should be moderately damp and dark. Access for children is prohibited. The drug can be used within the expiration date, which is 2 years from the date of production.
Indications for the drug Viferon®
Ointment
viral (including herpetic) lesions of the skin and mucous membranes of various localizations;
treatment of influenza and acute respiratory viral infections in children over 1 year of age.
Gel
in complex therapy of ARVI, incl. influenza, frequent and prolonged acute respiratory viral infections, incl. complicated by bacterial infection;
prevention of acute respiratory viral infections, including influenza;
in complex therapy of recurrent stenotic laryngotracheobronchitis;
prevention of recurrent stenosing laryngotracheobronchitis;
in complex therapy of acute and exacerbations of chronic recurrent herpetic infections of the skin and mucous membranes, incl. urogenital form of herpetic infection;
in complex therapy of herpetic cervicitis.
Suppositories
In complex therapy:
ARVI, including influenza, incl. complicated by bacterial infection, pneumonia (bacterial, viral, chlamydial) in children and adults;
infectious and inflammatory diseases of newborns, incl. premature babies: meningitis (bacterial, viral), sepsis, intrauterine infection (chlamydia, herpes, CMV infection, enterovirus infection, candidiasis, including visceral, mycoplasmosis);
chronic viral hepatitis B, C, D in children and adults, incl. in combination with the use of plasmapheresis and hemosorption for chronic viral hepatitis of pronounced activity, complicated by cirrhosis of the liver;
infectious and inflammatory diseases of the urogenital tract (chlamydia, CMV infection, ureaplasmosis, trichomoniasis, gardnerellosis, papillomavirus infection, bacterial vaginosis, recurrent vaginal candidiasis, mycoplasmosis) in adults;
primary or recurrent herpetic infection of the skin and mucous membranes, localized form, mild to moderate course, incl. urogenital form in adults.
Viferon is a new antiviral and immunomodulatory drug
How can we increase the effectiveness of etiotropic therapy and at the same time achieve a reduction in side effects that appear during its use? How can you increase the functional activity of your own immune system and speed up the restoration of its damaged parts? How to circumvent the possibility of allergization of the body and the development of immunodeficiency?
The role of the immune system in the body's anti-infective defense has been proven. More and more data are emerging on the direct and feedback communication of the immune system with the interferon system. The state and activity of these systems largely determine the outcome of the disease and the nature of its course.
Antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs are traditionally used in the treatment of infectious and inflammatory diseases. However, such therapy often does not live up to the expectations placed on it. This is explained primarily by the resistance of many microorganisms to drugs available in the arsenal of practical medicine. For example, according to statistics,
| The interferon system is aimed at recognizing and eliminating foreign genetic information. The main effects of interferon can be divided into antiviral, antimicrobial, antiproliferative, immunomodulatory, carried out in interaction with other cytokines, and radioprotective. The variety of IFN functions discovered and studied to date indicates their control and regulatory role in maintaining homeostasis |
The resistance of some strains of Staphylococcus aureus to erythromycin in Western Europe and Japan reaches 90%. The emergence of new generations of antibiotics is accompanied by the immediate emergence of new resistant strains. The same can be said about antiviral drugs. Currently, strains of the herpes virus have been isolated that are resistant to acyclovir and its analogues. One should not lose sight of the numerous side effects of antibiotics and chemotherapeutic agents: allergic reactions, dysbacteriosis, hepatotoxicity, immunosuppressive effects, etc. This is especially true for the use of antibiotics in the treatment of infections in which the pathogen has intracellular localization at one of the stages of reproduction (chlamydia, mycoplasma, etc.) and uses the biochemical apparatus of the infection carrier for its reproduction. In these cases, highly active broad-spectrum antibiotics are usually used, suppressing the metabolic and synthetic processes of both the pathogen and the carrier of the infection. The side effects of such therapy are even more pronounced. The “immunological deficiency” syndrome that develops after a course of antibiotic therapy can lead to persistence of the pathogen, relapse of the disease, and also increases the likelihood of subsequent infections with infectious agents of a different nature, since restoration of the immune status does not occur quickly enough.
| Recommended number of courses of Viferon-1 for various infectious and inflammatory diseases in newborns, including premature babies |
The break between courses is 5 days. |
It is appropriate to note that in recent years there has been an increase in autoimmune diseases (reactive arthritis, glomerulonephritis, multiple sclerosis, etc.), one of the causes of which is viral infection. Therapy for these diseases also requires correction of the immune and interferon systems.
Currently, interferon preparations occupy a worthy place in the arsenal of practical medicine. And this is not surprising. Interferons, as natural factors of nonspecific defense of the body and mediators of immunity, have the widest spectrum of action.
At first these were human leukocyte interferon (IFN) preparations, which were later replaced by recombinant IFN preparations.
Initially, IFN drugs were used to treat only viral diseases (influenza, viral hepatitis, herpes, tick-borne encephalitis, etc.). Due to the pronounced immunomodulatory effect of IFN, their clinical effectiveness has been proven in the treatment of many bacterial and protozoal infections (bacterial and fungal meningitis, sepsis, chlamydia, ureaplasmosis, etc.), various allergies, autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, glomerulonephritis, etc.), oncological pathology. (leukemia, lymphosarcoma, lymphoma, etc.).
Currently, there are quite a few recombinant IFN preparations: reaferon, realdiron, intron-A, roferon, welferon. Most of them are highly effective, but their application often poses significant difficulties. These drugs are introduced into the patient’s body, usually in high doses (3-10 million IU per day) and parenterally (intravenously, intramuscularly, subcutaneously), which causes significant side effects: fever, flu-like syndrome, arthralgia, depression , diarrhea.
- Dosage form of the drug Viferon and its components
The chosen dosage form - suppositories - provides a simple, safe and painless method of administration.
| For the treatment of pregnant women with infectious and inflammatory pathology |
| from 28 to 34 weeks |
Human recombinant IFN-a2b, one of the most common IFNs in clinical practice, was chosen as the active principle.
All variants of Viferon, in addition to recombinant IFN-a2b, included antioxidants - a-tocopherol acetate (vitamin E) and ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in therapeutically effective doses.
Viferon is available in three versions: Viferon-1, Viferon-2, Viferon-3.
Viferon-1 contains human recombinant interferon-a2 in the amount of 150,000 IU (international units) per suppository.
Viferon-2 contains human recombinant interferon-a2 in the amount of 500,000 IU per suppository.
Viferon-3 contains human recombinant interferon-a2 in the amount of 1,000,000 IU per suppository.
Viferon-3 is prescribed primarily for the treatment of viral hepatitis in children and adults.
| In the complex treatment of glomerulonephritis associated with the hepatitis B virus, herpetic and cytomegalovirus infections, it is recommended to use Viferon |
| daily , 2 candles per day with a 12-hour interval for 10 days, then for a week - every other day, 2 candles per day with a 12-hour interval, then for a week - every other day, 1 candle at night, after which - 1 candle at night 2 times a week for 6-7 weeks, and then 3 weeks, 1 candle at night 1 time per week. The general course is 3 months. |
| For pyelonephritis, Viferon is prescribed |
| daily , 2 suppositories per day at 12-hour intervals for 7 days, then 2 times a week, 2 suppositories per day for 4 weeks. In severe cases, the course is at least 6-8 weeks. |
- Therapeutic effect of the drug Viferon
The complex composition of Viferon provides a number of its advantages: in combination with antioxidants, the antiviral activity of recombinant interferon increases 10-14 times, its immunomodulatory effect on T- and B-lymphocytes is enhanced, the content of immunoglobulin E is normalized, there are no side effects that occur with parenteral administration of interferon preparations . It has been established that with long-term use of Viferon for two years, antibodies that neutralize the antiviral activity of recombinant interferon-2 are not formed.
The interaction of Viferon components makes it possible to significantly reduce course doses and duration of courses of antibiotic and hormonal therapy.
- Clinical effectiveness of Viferon
Viferon is the only drug registered in Russia, belonging to the class of recombinant interferons, approved by the State Pharmacological Committee of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation for the treatment of various infectious and inflammatory diseases in newborns, including premature babies, as well as for the treatment of chronic viral hepatitis B, C, D children and pregnant women with urogenital infection.
Viferon has proven itself positively in the treatment of viral and bacterial infections in newborns: ARVI, sepsis, pneumonia, meningitis, specific intrauterine infection (chlamydia, herpes, cytomegaly, ureaplasmosis).
| Basic treatment + Viferon |
| Basic treatment |
| Figure 1. Dynamics and disappearance of chlamydial hypertension from the blood and upper respiratory tract (URT) in newborns |
It must be emphasized that the drug is highly effective in the treatment of pneumonia of chlamydial etiology (Fig. 1).
The clinical effectiveness of Viferon is to reduce the duration of infectious toxicosis, accelerate the resolution of the pathological focus (reducing the duration of cough, shortness of breath, faster normalization of CBS indicators). The inclusion of Viferon contributed to a reduction in antibacterial therapy by 10 days and a decrease in the total duration of the disease by an average of 8 days (Table 1).
When Viferon was included in the course of treatment for meningitis of various etiologies in newborns, cytosis in the cerebrospinal fluid normalized 2 weeks earlier than in the comparison group. At the same time, there was a significantly smaller number of purulent and neurological complications.
Viferon-1 is indicated for newborn babies (including premature babies with a gestational age of more than 34 weeks). The drug is used 1 suppository 2 times a day every 12 hours. The course of treatment is 5 days.
For premature babies with a gestational age of less than 34 weeks, Viferon-1 is prescribed 1 suppository 3 times a day every 8 hours. The course of treatment is 5 days.
The inclusion of Viferon in the complex therapy of chronic viral hepatitis B, C, D in children contributed to a decrease in the pathological process in the liver, a decrease in the activity of AST and ALT, a decrease in HBsAg titers, the disappearance or seroconversion of HBeAg to anti-HBe. There was an increase in the function of macrophages. This
Table 1. The effectiveness of treatment with Viferon in newborns with pneumonia of chlamydial etiology (Keshishchyan E. S., 1990)
| Group | Main | Control |
| Number of patients | 230 | 73 |
| Method of treatment | Conventional therapy + Viferon | Conventional therapy |
| Daily dose of Viferon | 2 suppositories per day for weight up to 2500 g - Viferon-1; with a weight of more than 2500 g - Viferon-2 | — |
| Duration of viferon therapy course, days | 5 | — |
| Massiveness of antibiotic therapy | 1 course of 2 AB or 2 courses of 1 AB | 3 courses: 2 of 2 AB + 1 of 1 AB |
| Duration of antibiotic therapy, days | 13±4 | 25±5 |
| Duration of pneumonia, days | 17±1 | 25 |
| % chronicity | No | 12 |
was expressed in an increase in the percentage of macrophages capable of chemosynthesis.
With a long-term 6-month course of Viferon therapy in patients with chronic viral hepatitis of minimal activity, remission was observed in 62% of cases, while in the group of patients who did not receive Viferon, remission did not occur. In 71% of patients with severely active chronic viral hepatitis and liver cirrhosis who were on glucocorticoid therapy, the inclusion of Viferon in the treatment regimen made it possible to reduce the dose of prednisolone by 3.5 times (Reizis A.R., Drondina A.N., 1992), and in 28% of patients, cancel hormones completely (Chistova L.V. et al., 1995). It is interesting to note that in the group of children with chronic viral hepatitis C, 83% of children experienced remission immediately after discontinuation of Viferon therapy, and the rest showed persistent improvement Figure 2. Clinical effectiveness (%) of Viferon
| Hepatitis D, C, D | 46% |
| Chlamydia | 85% |
| Herpes | 88% |
| Pneumonia | 86% |
| Sepsis | 42% |
| Meningitis | 50% |
| Mycoplasmosis | 81% |
| Visceral candidiasis | 82% |
| Cytomegaly | 86% |
| Rheumatoid arthritis | 72% |
| Virus-associated glomerulonephritis | 87% |
was noted even after 6 months (Uchaikin V.F., Cherednichenko T.V. et al., 1995).
This effect has never been observed with parenteral administration of interferon preparations. At the same time, the cessation of the replicative activity of the HC virus due to the disappearance of RNA was recorded. HCV was detected in all patients. According to Professor A. R. Reizis, the best effect of Viferon therapy is observed with a long 13-18-month course (Table 2). It must be emphasized that antibodies that neutralize the antiviral activity of recombinant interferon-2 are in the blood of patients who received a long course of Viferon therapy. not detected (Chistova L.V. et al., 1995).
The successful use of Viferon coupled with the use of extracorporeal treatment methods: plasmapheresis and hemosorption in the complex treatment of children with severe chronic viral hepatitis and liver cirrhosis has been noted. Conducting a 14-day course of viferon therapy before plasmapheresis and/or hemosorption prevented the development of ARVI and exacerbation of herpetic diseases. In the comparison group, the addition of intercurrent diseases was observed in 100% of cases (Kladova O.V., 1995).
In the complex therapy of acute and chronic viral hepatitis B, C, D, children under 7 years old are prescribed Viferon-2, and over 7 years old - Viferon-3. The drug is prescribed 2 suppositories per day every day at 12-hour intervals for 10 days. Then 3 times a week every other day, 2 suppositories per day at 12-hour intervals for 1 month for acute hepatitis and 6-12 months for chronic hepatitis. The duration of treatment is determined by the dynamics of clinical and laboratory parameters.
For patients with severe chronic hepatitis and liver cirrhosis, before plasmapheresis and/or hemosorption, the use of Viferon-1 or Viferon-2 (depending on age) is indicated for 14 days, 2 suppositories daily with a 12-hour interval.
In recent years, Viferon has been successfully and effectively used in obstetric practice. Viferon is approved for use in pregnant women (starting from the 28th week of pregnancy) with viral-bacterial urogenital infections (herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, cytomegalovirus, chlamydia, mycoplasmosis, ureaplasmosis, toxoplasmosis). During the course of viferon therapy, there was a significant increase in the level of specific antiviral immunoglobulins of class G, as well as normalization of the relative indicators of the lymphocyte subpopulation (CD3, CD4, CD4/CD8).
When using the drug in pregnant women, a decrease in colonization of the birth canal by opportunistic microorganisms, a decrease in the contamination of the endocervix with chlamydia, ureaplasma, and genital herpes was revealed. Elimination of pathogens occurred in every second or third patient. In every sixth patient, vaginal microbiocinosis was restored without additional use of eubiotics. The antiviral nature of the drug's action consisted of reducing the duration of relapses and increasing the intervals between relapses. The inclusion of pregnant women with autoimmune diseases in the course of therapy made it possible to abandon the prescription of glucocorticoids.
The high effectiveness of Viferon consisted of a pronounced reduction in the frequency of generalized forms of intrauterine infection from 25.6% to 4.7% (Tareeva T. G. et al., 1996).
Clinical trials of Viferon in the complex treatment of glomerulonephritis associated with the hepatitis B virus, herpesvirus and cytomegalovirus infections have been completed.
Table 2. Efficacy of maintenance therapy with Viferon 13-18 months from the start of treatment in children with chronic viral hepatitis B
| Indicators | Control group | Main group |
| Duration of 1st remission | 85.6 days | 165.2 days |
| Interferonogenesis | Depressed | Reaches the norm |
| HBsAg titers | 280,8 | 65,3 |
| HBeAg detection rate | 56,5% | 19,1% |
| Anti-HBe detection rate | 22,4% | 60,3% |
It is noted that the use of Viferon contributes to the accelerated elimination of symptoms of intoxication, clinical signs of pyelonephritis and bacteriuria. Follow-up observation of children treated with Viferon indicates the persistence of stable clinical and laboratory remission for 6-12 months in the majority of patients.
In recent years, patients with urinary tract infections are often diagnosed with chlamydia, in which the course of the disease is torpid in nature with frequent recurrences. This made it possible to include Viferon as an immunocorrector in complex therapy, along with antibacterial drugs acting on chlamydia (macrolides, tetracycline antibiotics). For glomerulonephritis, viferon was prescribed both during the active phase and during the period of subsidence of the process. In children with the nephrotic form of glomerulonephritis, an earlier onset of remission was detected. Moreover, stable clinical and laboratory remission was obtained in individual children with the nephrotic form against the background of HBs antigenemia, which could not be achieved before the prescription of Viferon. Viferon has been proven to be highly effective for the prevention of purulent-septic postoperative complications. The drug is prescribed daily, 2 suppositories at 12-hour intervals for 5 days.
Viferon has been found to have a good effect in the complex treatment of intestinal dysbiosis in children. Viferon was prescribed daily, 2 suppositories per day at 12-hour intervals for 10 days, then a maintenance dose - 2 suppositories per week for up to 1 month. After the course of viferon therapy, restoration or a tendency towards normalization of the intestinal microflora was noted. In Fig. Table 2 shows the clinical effectiveness of Viferon for various diseases.
- Interaction with other drugs
Viferon is compatible and goes well with all medications traditionally used in the treatment of the diseases listed below (antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, glucocorticosteroids, immunosuppressants, interferon inducers).
Prescribing Viferon can significantly reduce course doses and duration of use of antibiotics and glucocorticoids, as well as reduce the toxic effect when using immunosuppressive drugs. Viferon is well tolerated by patients and does not cause side effects or allergic reactions.
The drug Viferon was developed at the Research Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology named after.
N. F. Gamaleya RAMS, patented (patent No. 2024253), registered with the pharmacological committee of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (registration No. 96/432/5). The trademark Viferon (VIFERON) is registered (certificate No. 120337). Viferon is produced by ZAO BKI, Moscow (license No. 64/349/96 dated December 25, 1996, Order of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation No. 432 dated December 31, 1996). Manufacturer: tel./fax (Moscow) Branch in St. Petersburg: tel./fax
Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Ointment: since when applied externally and locally, the systemic absorption of interferon is low and the drug has an effect only in the lesion, it is possible to use the drug VIFERON® during pregnancy and lactation.
Gel: since the systemic absorption of interferon when applied topically is low and the drug has an effect only in the lesion, it is possible to use the drug VIFERON® during pregnancy and breastfeeding. During lactation, do not use the drug on the area of the nipples and areola.
Suppositories: the drug is approved for use from the 14th week of pregnancy. There are no restrictions for use during lactation.
Side effects
Ointment: in most cases, VIFERON® is well tolerated. When applied to the nasal mucosa, side effects are weak and transient and disappear on their own after discontinuation of the drug.
Gel: in extremely rare cases, a local allergic reaction may occur in some highly sensitive individuals. In such cases, stop using the drug.
Suppositories: in rare cases - allergic reactions (skin rashes, itching). These phenomena are reversible and disappear 72 hours after stopping the drug.
pharmachologic effect
Human recombinant interferon alpha-2b has immunomodulatory, antiviral and antiproliferative properties. Suppresses the replication of RNA and DNA viruses. The immunomodulatory properties of interferon, such as increased phagocytic activity of macrophages, increased specific cytotoxicity of lymphocytes to target cells, determine its indirect antibacterial activity.
In the presence of antioxidants alpha-tocopherol acetate, citric and benzoic acids, the specific antiviral activity of interferon increases, its immunomodulatory effect increases, which makes it possible to increase the effectiveness of the body's own immune response to infectious agents.
The drug has a pronounced local immunomodulatory effect and helps to increase locally formed antibodies of the secretory IgA class, which prevent the fixation and proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms on the mucous membranes, which provides a preventive effect of the drug for the prevention of viral and other diseases.
The gel base ensures a prolonged effect of the drug. The antioxidants included in the dosage form - alpha-tocopherol acetate, citric and benzoic acids - have anti-inflammatory, membrane-stabilizing, regenerating properties, and also contribute to the preservation of the biological activity of human recombinant interferon alpha-2b.
Directions for use and doses
Ointment, externally and locally. For herpes infection, apply a thin layer of ointment to the affected areas 3-4 times a day and rub in gently. Duration of treatment is 5–7 days. It is recommended to begin treatment immediately when the first signs of damage to the skin and mucous membranes appear (itching, burning, redness). When treating recurrent herpes, it is advisable to begin treatment in the prodromal period or at the very beginning of the appearance of signs of relapse.
To treat influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections, the ointment is applied in a thin layer to the mucous membrane of the nasal passages 3-4 times a day throughout the entire period of the disease.
Children from 1 year to 2 years - 2500 IU (1 pea with a diameter of 0.5 cm) 3 times a day; from 2 to 12 years - 2500 IU (1 pea with a diameter of 0.5 cm) 4 times a day; from 12 to 18 years - 5000 IU (1 pea with a diameter of 1 cm) 4 times a day. The duration of treatment is 5 days.
Gel, externally and locally.
In the complex therapy of ARVI, including influenza, long-term and frequent ARVI, incl. complicated by a bacterial infection: a strip of gel no more than 0.5 cm long is applied to the previously dried surface of the nasal mucosa and/or to the surface of the tonsils 3-5 times a day using a spatula or a cotton swab/cotton swab (see Note). The course of treatment is 5 days; if necessary, the course can be extended.
Prevention of ARVI, including influenza: during the period of rising incidence, a strip of gel no more than 0.5 cm long is applied to the previously dried surface of the nasal mucosa and/or to the surface of the tonsils 2 times a day for 2–4 weeks.
In complex therapy of recurrent stenosing laryngotracheobronchitis: a strip of gel no more than 0.5 cm long is applied to the surface of the palatine tonsils using a spatula or a cotton swab/cotton swab in the acute period of the disease 5 times a day, for 5–7 days, then 3 times a day day for the next 3 weeks.
Prevention of recurrent stenosing laryngotracheobronchitis: a strip of gel no more than 0.5 cm long is applied to the surface of the tonsils using a spatula or a cotton swab/cotton swab 2 times a day for 3-4 weeks, courses are repeated 2 times a year.
In complex therapy of acute and chronic recurrent herpetic infection (at the first signs of the disease or during the period of warning signs): a strip of gel no more than 0.5 cm long is applied using a spatula or a cotton swab/cotton swab to a previously dried affected surface 3–5 times per day. day for 5–6 days, if necessary, the duration of the course is increased until clinical manifestations disappear.
In complex therapy of herpetic cervicitis: 1 ml of gel is applied with a cotton swab to the surface of the cervix, previously cleared of mucus, 2 times a day for 7 days; if necessary, the duration of the course can be increased to 14 days.
Note. The gel is applied to the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity after cleansing the nasal passages, and to the surface of the palatine tonsils - 30 minutes after eating. When applying the gel to the tonsils, do not touch the tonsils with a cotton swab, but only with the gel; the gel flows down on its own along the surface of the tonsil. When applying the gel to the cervix, you should first remove mucus and discharge from the vaginal vaults and cervix with a cotton or gauze swab.
When applying the gel to the affected areas of the skin and mucous membranes, after 30–40 minutes a thin film is formed, onto which the drug is again applied. If desired, the film can be peeled off or washed off with water before reapplying the drug.
Suppositories, rectally.
1 suppository contains human recombinant interferon alpha-2b as an active substance in the indicated dosages (150,000 IU, 500,000 IU, 1,000,000 IU, 3,000,000 IU).
Acute respiratory viral infections, including influenza, incl. complicated by bacterial infection, pneumonia (bacterial, viral, chlamydial) in children and adults as part of complex therapy. Recommended dose for adults, including pregnant women and children over 7 years old VIFERON® 500,000 IU, 1 suppository 2 times a day after 12 hours every day for 5 days. According to clinical indications, therapy can be continued.
Children under 7 years old, incl. For newborns and premature infants with a gestational age of more than 34 weeks, it is recommended to use the drug VIFERON® 150,000 IU, 1 suppository 2 times a day after 12 hours every day for 5 days. According to clinical indications, therapy can be continued. The break between courses is 5 days.
Premature newborns with a gestational age of less than 34 weeks are recommended to use the drug VIFERON® 150,000 IU, 1 suppository 3 times a day after 8 hours every day for 5 days. According to clinical indications, therapy can be continued. The break between courses is 5 days.
Infectious and inflammatory diseases of newborns, incl. premature babies: meningitis (bacterial, viral), sepsis, intrauterine infection (chlamydia, herpes, CMV infection, enterovirus infection, candidiasis, including visceral, mycoplasmosis) as part of complex therapy. Recommended dose for newborns, incl. premature babies with a gestational age of more than 34 weeks VIFERON® 150,000 IU daily, 1 suppository 2 times a day after 12 hours. The course of treatment is 5 days.
Premature newborns with a gestational age of less than 34 weeks are recommended to use the drug VIFERON® 150,000 IU daily, 1 suppository 3 times a day after 8 hours. The course of treatment is 5 days.
Recommended number of courses for various infectious and inflammatory diseases: sepsis - 2-3 courses, meningitis - 1-2 courses, herpes infection - 2 courses, enterovirus infection - 1-2 courses, CMV infection - 2-3 courses, mycoplasmosis, candidiasis , including visceral - 2-3 courses. The break between courses is 5 days. According to clinical indications, therapy can be continued.
Chronic viral hepatitis B, C, D in children and adults as part of complex therapy, incl. in combination with the use of plasmapheresis and hemosorption for chronic viral hepatitis of pronounced activity, complicated by cirrhosis of the liver. The recommended dose for adults is VIFERON® 3,000,000 IU, 1 suppository 2 times a day every 12 hours every day for 10 days, then 3 times a week every other day for 6–12 months. The duration of treatment is determined by clinical effectiveness and laboratory parameters.
For children under 6 months of age, 300,000–500,000 IU per day is recommended; at the age of 6 to 12 months - 500,000 IU per day.
For children aged 1 to 7 years, 3,000,000 IU per 1 m2 of body surface area per day is recommended.
For children over 7 years old, 5,000,000 IU per 1 m2 of body surface area per day is recommended.
The drug is used 2 times a day every 12 hours for the first 10 days, then 3 times a week every other day for 6–12 months. The duration of treatment is determined by clinical effectiveness and laboratory parameters.
The daily dose of the drug for each patient is calculated by multiplying the recommended dose for a given age by the body surface area calculated using the nomogram for calculating body surface area by height and weight according to Garford, Terry and Rourke. The calculation of a single dose is carried out by dividing the calculated daily dose into 2 administrations, the resulting value is rounded up to the dosage of the suppository.
In case of chronic viral hepatitis of pronounced activity and liver cirrhosis, before plasmapheresis and/or hemosorption, it is recommended to use VIFERON® 150,000 IU for children under 7 years of age, VIFERON® 500,000 IU for children over 7 years of age, 1 suppository 2 times a day every 12 hours. within 14 days.
Infectious and inflammatory diseases of the urogenital tract (chlamydia, CMV infection, ureaplasmosis, trichomoniasis, gardnerellosis, papillomavirus infection, bacterial vaginosis, recurrent vaginal candidiasis, mycoplasmosis) in adults, including pregnant women as part of complex therapy. The recommended dose for adults is VIFERON® 500,000 IU, 1 suppository 2 times a day after 12 hours every day for 5–10 days. According to clinical indications, therapy can be continued.
Pregnant women from the second trimester of pregnancy (starting from 14 weeks of gestation) are recommended VIFERON® 500,000 IU, 1 suppository 2 times a day every 12 hours for 10 days, then 3 times for 9 days with an interval of 3 days (on the 4th day) 1 suppository 2 times a day after 12 hours. Then every 4 weeks until delivery VIFERON® 150,000 IU, 1 suppository 2 times a day after 12 hours every day for 5 days. If necessary, it is indicated before delivery (from 38 weeks of gestation) VIFERON® 500,000 IU, 1 suppository 2 times a day after 12 hours every day for 10 days.
Primary or recurrent herpetic infection of the skin and mucous membranes, localized form, mild to moderate course, incl. urogenital form in adults, including pregnant women. The recommended dose for adults is VIFERON® 1,000,000 IU, 1 suppository 2 times a day after 12 hours every day for 10 days or more for recurrent infections. According to clinical indications, therapy can be continued. It is recommended to begin treatment immediately when the first signs of damage to the skin and mucous membranes appear (itching, burning, redness). When treating recurrent herpes, it is advisable to begin treatment in the prodromal period or at the very beginning of signs of relapse.
Pregnant women from the second trimester of pregnancy (starting from 14 weeks of gestation) are recommended VIFERON® 500,000 IU, 1 suppository 2 times a day every 12 hours for 10 days, then 3 times for 9 days with an interval of 3 days (on the 4th day) 1 suppository 2 times a day after 12 hours. Then every 4 weeks until delivery VIFERON® 150,000 IU, 1 suppository 2 times a day after 12 hours every day for 5 days. If necessary, it is indicated before delivery (from 38 weeks of gestation) VIFERON® 500,000 IU, 1 suppository 2 times a day after 12 hours every day for 10 days.
Indications and instructions for use of other forms of the drug
Candles can be used to treat the following pathologies:
- infectious and inflammatory processes in children, including infants with a gestation period of 34 weeks or more;
- viral hepatitis of the following types: B, C and D;
- viral hepatitis, which occurs chronically, as well as with complications, including cirrhosis;
- influenza, ARVI (both in adults and in children and infancy).
Suppositories are used rectally, and they are administered 1 piece at a time. 2 times a day. The course lasts 5-10 days, after which a break is taken and, if necessary, the therapy is repeated. To prevent relapses, treatment is carried out at intervals of 4 weeks. In this case, the minimum time between administrations of 2 suppositories in all cases should be 12 hours.
Candles are also given to children, including newborns, as well as premature babies. Main indications:
- ARVI;
- infection of enteroviral origin;
- pneumonia;
- meningitis;
- infections of herpetic origin;
- infections associated with cytomegalovirus;
- sepsis.
The dosage calculation, frequency of administration, as well as the total duration of therapy are determined by the doctor. Typically, newborns up to 6 months old are prescribed an amount of 300-500 thousand IU every day. And children between 6-12 months are given exactly 500 thousand IU.
The total daily amount is divided by 2 times and the suppositories are administered rectally. To do this, the child is placed on his side and both legs are tucked towards his stomach. Before starting the injection, you can coat the rectal area with Vaseline or baby cream. During insertion, the child’s body is fixed with hands and the buttocks are immediately clamped so that the suppository enters completely.
