Review of antiviral drugs in cases of influenza and influenza
Any disease, especially ARVI and the Flu is easier, cheaper and safer not to treat, but not to prevent, to prevent its occurrence. Recently, especially worried about the "point" - it's safer. Should I take antiviral pills at all? In today's complex world, how to understand the issues:
- Will the effect of using an expensive antiviral drug?
- Which drug is better for adults to take flu, children?
- Do not it cause harm to health?
- Is there the best cure for flu?
- Effective antiviral drugs - is it advertising, business, dummy or not?
Antiviral drugs for Orvy on the Russian pharmaceutical market are as follows:
Virtually all antiviral drugs for orvi and flu have no evidence base for their antiviral efficacy. Studies are very expensive, conducted by the manufacturers themselves and those interested in the positive conclusion of the parties. Today, most clinical trials of new drugs are regularly falsified in order to bring "miraculous" drugs to the market with a new price tag. Given the fabulous commercial benefits of selling expensive antiviral drugs during the epidemic, honesty and objectivity of research is not believed. As you know, pharmacological publications, even in medical journals today, are about 90 percent - these are custom-made articles of an advertising nature.
Today in the pharmacy chains an abundance of various medicines, some of which are essentially "medicines" They are not, because there are a lot of fakes, frank dummies and inefficient means. Advocates of patients' rights in Ukraine, for example, argue that in 4 drugs registered as antiviral - the active substance was not found. However, a wide advertising company allows producers to earn millions of hryvnias on them per year.
Antiviral drugs for Orvi are conventionally divided into:
- Vaccines - stimulation of the production of antibodies before infection with the virus
- Immunostimulants - drugs that temporarily enhance nonspecific immunity, which promote the production of interferons
- Antiviral drugs are agents that affect neuraminidase (a viral enzyme) by suppressing the multiplication of the virus (Oseltamivir, Zanamivir) and blockers M2-channels Amantadine, Remantadine - these drugs have proven clinical effectiveness, but as any means have a number of side effects.
Most antiviral drugs for orvi and influenza are developed and applied no more than 10-40 years. The drug should have a greater "trial period" in order to draw a conclusion about its effectiveness and side effects. As for immunostimulants, these funds can have delayed consequences (risks of autoimmune development diseases, oncological diseases of the blood, etc.) and should be prescribed according to strict indications.
Immunity modulators and antiviral agents
The immunostimulants produced today show the activation of immune reactions at the biochemical level (which is called "in test tube "), but their real benefit and long-term consequences of use are rather complex, poorly studied areas. Since information on many mechanisms of immunity has become known relatively recently, scientists are getting more and more information about its functioning every year. Therefore, there is no confidence in the safety and correctness of general stimulation of the "under-researched" immune system (see Fig. what is immunity and whether drugs are needed to improve it). Especially prudent should be the preventive use of immunostimulants and the treatment with antiviral medicines for 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, the human body functions normally only with the balance of the immune system. And if a person each time stimulates ("to increase his own immunity"), then, in the presence of predisposing factors, this can result in pathological inflammation, immune aggression on healthy tissues, hyperactivation of the immune system and theoretically (in extreme cases) to the development of an autoimmune or oncological disease.
If the next of kin has an autoimmune disease (rheumatoid arthritis, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, Sjogren's syndrome, multiple sclerosis, etc.), then under no circumstances should a person use any immunostimulants. Even if a person is healthy, there is already a violation of the immune system, and you can live with them all your life, but if you are rude and persistently try to stimulate their immune system, this may end with the debut of an autoimmune disease.
Fortunately, for most healthy people, without the presence of any predisposing factors, it is difficult to "achieve" your immunity so as to seriously damage your health. Since most of the known immunostimulants either do not work at all, or almost do not work. One part of the drugs - an ordinary deception, another - ineffective means. But it should be remembered that any drug has side effects.
Drug Groups | Act | Names of drugs |
Interferon preparations | Blockade of viral mRNA translation, presentation of viral antigens | Recombinant alpha / gamma interferons |
Etiotropic means | Neuraminidase inhibitors |
|
Ion channel blockers | Rimantadine (Remantadin, Orvirem) | |
Antiviral drugs with varying degrees of evidence of action | Enabling synthesis endogenous interferons |
|
Specific HA chaperone |
|
|
NP-Protein Inhibitors |
|
Alexander Khadzhidis, Chief Clinical Pharmacologist, St. Petersburg states the following: "Some doctors for some reason first prescribe to patients antipyretic drugs, and then immunomodulators, allegedly for the production of interferon - which is illogical and generally absurd. That is, first, knocking down the temperature - "prohibit" the body to fight the virus (at high temperature antibodies are produced against the virus and infection), and then artificially "forced" to do so.
In developed countries, interferonogens (drugs that stimulate the production of interferon) are not 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.
With regard to antipyretics with the virus - to knock down the temperature better with paracetamol and once with a rise in temperature, rather than 4 p / day - "just in case." Taking Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) in ARVI, especially in children under 12 years old, is contraindicated, it can cause severe lesion of the central nervous system and liver, it is not recommended to apply it to those who suffered from gastric ulcer. "
Well-known in Russia doctor Alexander Myasnikov says that all immunomodulators widely advertised in our country are a waste of money. In the United States and Western Europe, it is already unequivocally recognized and proven that these remedies are ineffective, but most Russian doctors continue to believe in the power of immunomodulators in treating Orvi.
Cytovir 3
Pharmacological action: Integratedimmunostimulating, an antiviral drug,
has an interferonogenic effect. As part of the drug - Timogen sodium, ascorbic acid, bendazole. Timogen synthetically obtained dipeptide, it enhances the nonspecific resistance of the organism. Ascorbic acid normalizes the permeability of capillaries, reducing the activity of the inflammatory process. Bendazol stimulates the production of endogenous interferon in the body.Side effects: in people suffering from vegetative-vascular dystonia, causes a decrease in blood pressure.
Contraindications: in pregnancy, children under 1 year, thrombophlebitis, severe hypotension, diabetes mellitus, stomach ulcer, urolithiasis.
Issued: since 2001 in capsules, for children since 2006 in syrup, in powder for the preparation of solution
Research: There is no reliable information about clinical trials confirming its efficacy and safety. Often, doctors and pharmacists recommend this tool for children, but use it to treat children should be used with caution or not used at all.
References: Quite a lot of reviews in patients who use Citovir, about the effectiveness and absence of side effects. Improvement of well-being is observed on the second-third day, in single cases the drug did not help.
Price: Cytovir 3 - average240-580rub.
Kagocel
Pharmacological action: inducer of interferon synthesis, antiviral,immunomodulatingeffect. Composition: the sodium salt of the copolymer, which causes the formation of late interferon, which has high antiviral activity. The greatest effect occurs if you start treatment within the first 24 hours of the disease, but not later than the 4th day after the onset of an acute infection. With a view to prevention, it is possible to take it at any time, preferably immediately after contact with a sick Orvy or a flu.
Side effects: the emergence of allergic reactions.
Issued: Registered in 2003, since 2005 is produced in tablets, since 2011 allowed for use children over the age of 3 years for the treatment of influenza, as the prevention of children can be used for children over 6 years.
Research efficiency and safety: There is conflicting information. The active ingredient is the sodium salt of the gossypol copolymer with carboxymethyl cellulose.
And Gossipol itself is a natural polyphenol, it has been banned in the world since 1998 due to its toxicity. Gossypol for a long time and actively studied by some countries as a contraceptive, with its continued intake completely stops spermatogenesis. Chinese and Brazilian scientists say that host gossypol boys and men may suffer infertility in the future. However, Kagocel is not pure gossypol, it is the sodium salt of the copolymer, which has other properties that differ from the properties 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 from the international standards allowed. Multiple stages of purification of the product ensure the absence of free Gossypol in the final drug, which is checked by monitoring the quality of each series of Kagocel tablets. The method used to check the availability of free gossypol is very accurate, it can reveal its content above 0.0036%. In early 2013, data were published on tests performed on rats - no changes in reproductive function were detected in animals.
That is, research on primates was not done? It is known that gossypol for different animal species has its maximum dose of toxicity, according to the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) for rats, the limiting toxic dose is2200-3300 mg / kg.,for pigs 550, for guinea pigs up to 300 mg / kg. The research carried out by the manufacturer consisted in the administration of therapeutic doses to male rats, and doses 25 times higher than therapeutic doses250 mg / kg). Can you trust the rest of the statements and "studies"?
Neither in Western Europe nor in the United States Kagocel is not used, there are no WHO medicines on the list. The effectiveness of the drug is not proven according to the representatives of the Formulary Committee of the RAMS and SDMX. There were no statistical studies on the development of side effects as of autumn 2013.
The drug is actively recommended for adults and children, but evidence of the safety of this drug for children 3-6 years of age, no, there have been no clinical studies for this age group.
Reviews: Many help, some children and adults are allergic reactions in the form of rashes, swelling, itching.
Price: Kagocel - average180-280rub. In 2012, the volume of sales amounted to - 2.64 billion. rubles
Tyloron (Amiksin, Lavomax)
Pharmacological action: active ingredient Tiloron, possesses antiviral andimmunomodulatingaction, it is a synthetic inducer of interferon that stimulates the formation of interferons alpha, beta, gamma.
Side effects: short-term chills, allergic reactions, contraindicated in breastfeeding and pregnancy.
Issued: almost 40 years ago, children under 7 years of age are strictly prohibited.
Research: The benefits of the drug are unquestionable for both treatment and prevention of viral diseases, but this can overlap with potential harm to the body. In the 80's in the US, after tests on mice, the drug was banned, as it had a highly toxic effect,in experimental animals, retinal bundle, liver lipidosis and other side effects were observed. It does not apply in the US and the European Union. In our country, continue to produce antiviral Amiksin and doctors appoint it to patients.
A small study involved 14 patients who received tilorone in a dose of 152 and 189 g, in 2 drugs caused keratopathy and retinopathy (while visual acuity did not decrease), these effects were reversible. The authors of the study concluded about the potential danger of the drug for health.
Reviews: The occurrence of allergic reactions, the high cost of medicine.
Price: Amiksin - on average500-560rub. Sales volume in 2012 amounted to 1.17 billion. rub.
Additionally! Medicines, the so-called immunomodulators - Lycopid, Polyoxidonium, Cycloferon, Proteflazide, Timogen, Panavir, Isoprinosine, Neovir, Groprinosin and others. - should not be used to treat children (for various diseases) without an immunogram and serious indications, because they do not have the proper clinical trials of efficacy and safety in the treatment of children.
Antiviral drugs
Below are just some of the antiviral medications from Orvi, reviews about them, a brief description, comments on known studies of their effectiveness, the average price in pharmacies.
Ingavirin
Pharmacological action: active substance imidazolylethanamide pentandioic 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.
Produced: as a drug for the treatment of influenza and orgi from 2008, before that, according to prof. Vlasova Vasilia Vitaglutam (imidazolylethanamide pentanedioic acid) was used in Russia before 2008 year as a stimulant of hematopoiesis in cancer patients receiving anticancer therapy.
Research: According to the producers, the idea of producing Ingavirin arose in the 1980s, but only After many years of research into its safety and efficacy, the drug was submitted for registration by 2008. When Vitaglutam was used in patients with oncological diseases, there was no convincing evidence of its effectiveness. And when in 2008 Ingavirin appeared on the pharmaceutical market without full-fledged studies, the "epidemic of swine flu" began in the country, therefore Ingavirin was actively sold. The drug was recommended by the Ministry of Health and Social Development, even despite the absence of placebo-controlled studies, reasonable evidence of its effectiveness.
One study conducted at 105!!! of patients with confirmed influenza showed the following results:
- Receiving ingavirin reduced the duration of fever to 34.5 hours (if used in the first 1-1.5 days from the onset of the disease)
- In the placebo group, this is 72 hours
- In the group taking Arbidol - 48 hours
Analyzing the duration and intensity of the symptoms of influenza - weakness, headache, dizziness in the studied groups with the ingestion of Ingavirin, the severity of the disease was confirmed, no side effects were revealed.
In May 2009, Alexander Chuchalin, chief therapist of the Russian Federation, (he led a team of drug developers) gave an interview to the magazine Ogonek: "The new antiviral agent Ingavirin efficiency is much higher than that of the AmericanTamiflu. The Russian drug is quickly and easily integrated into the genome of the A / H1N1 virus, immediately destroying it. It is also effective with other dangerous viruses. "
Reviews: Most drug does not help, isolated cases confirm the reduction in the timing of the disease.
Price:380-460rub. From January to June 2010, the sales volume of Ingavirin was 220 million. rubles, 467 thousand packages were sold.
Arbidol
Pharmacological action: Antiviral, has the ability to suppress viruses of influenza A and B, SARS - severe acute respiratory syndrome, 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 of children under 3 years is prohibited, individual
allergic reactions.Produced: invented in 1974, in 1992, it began its industrial production.
Research: Until 2013 there was no convincing evidence in its effectiveness and safety. Studies conducted in the USSR have not been published. In Russia in 2008, a study of 300 people showed that Viferon was more effective than Arbidol. In 2004, in China, tests for 230 patients with symptoms of Orvi showed it was not effective, in contrast to Tamiflu and Ingaverin. In 2009, in the journal of the UK "Antiviral Research", the authors of the research stated that strains resistant to Arbidol are formed less frequently than those of Remantadine and Amantadine.
The Office of Quality Control of US Medicines denied registration of Arbidol in the United States, and WHO has never considered this drug as an effective antiviral drug.
Update on the drug: At the end of 2013, the World Health Organization registered Arbidol (umifenovir) as an antiviral drug with direct action, assigning to it the individual code J05AX13. Thus, Pharmstandard received a nominal permission for widespread use of the drug on the territory of the Russian Federation, where Arbidol is included in the standards of treatment and prevention of influenza and ARVI in children and adults.
Nevertheless, the multicenter test of the effectiveness of Arbidol, which was planned to be completed in 2013, has not been completed to this day, and its terms have been postponed to 2015. The results of this trial, which has serious sponsors and does not suffer from a shortage of patients, could put a dot over I in the arbidol epic, but for unknown reasons this does not happen. I.eevidence of effectiveness is not present until now, it remains to wait ...
Reviews: The same number of positive reviews and opinions about the ineffectiveness of its use. There are isolated cases of allergic reactions in the form of dermatitis, angioedema, pain in the epigastric region.
Price: Arbidol - on average130-710rub. In 2012, the volume of sales - more than 5 billion. rub.
Tamiflu
Pharmacological action: an antiviral drug, which includes oseltamivir carboxylate (active metabolite), suppresses influenza A and B viruses. When Orvi is not effective.
Side effects: Nausea, insomnia, diarrhea, dizziness, lethargy, cough, headaches, with caution to pregnant women and lactation. Contraindicated for children under 1 year.
Produced: since 1996, the pharmaceutical company "F. Hoffmann-La Roche "registered the right to develop
preparations containing oseltamivir.Research: Tamiflu has a disadvantage - it complicates the diagnosis, because side effects are similar to the symptoms of influenza. It is dangerous in the epidemic period with long-term admission. Optimum effective only short-term use - a few days at the beginning of the flu. Independent researchers demanded a standard report from the Swiss manufacturer of 4-5 research modules. To which the pharmaceutical company provided only the first modules, repeated requests for full information were never satisfied.
Since 2004, cases of neuropsychic disorders began to be registered, more often in children and adolescents who took Tamiflu during influenza - hallucinations, nightmares, confusion, convulsions, anxiety, etc.
Japanese postmarketing studies of this drug in 2006 have indicated a risk of developing impaired consciousness in humans - psychosis, depression, suicidal tendencies, especially in children. Also, 54 deaths were recorded after Tamiflu, 16 of which were in adolescents 10-19 years (15 committed suicide, 1 died, hitting the car), the rest died of kidney failure (it is possible that due to severe flu).
The 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 the Cochrane review of studies that did not confirm the efficacy of Tamiflu and Relenza in the treatment and prevention of influenza. Also, the efficacy of reducing influenza complications with these drugs has also been questioned. The firm attempts of Roche firm to fight back with a firm promise to provide undeniable evidence in the form of results of randomized trials have so far not been successful. Evidence is expected to present.
April 10, 2014, the Cochrane Collaboration website published the results of these 26 clinical trials Relenza and 20 clinical trials of Tamiflu, in which 2, 00 people participated.
As a result of the research it was found that:
- Oseltamivir as a preventive agent slightly reduces the risk of developing influenza in families, without reducing the ability of the influenza virus to be transmitted from person to person.
- The duration of symptoms is reduced by 16 hours (from 7 to 6.3 days), in children this effect is absent altogether.
- The drug has no effect on the risk of serious complications (sinusitis, otitis media, pneumonia, bronchitis), that is, does not reduce the likelihood of complications.
- The medicine is recognized as sufficiently toxic, increasing the risk of nausea, vomiting in both children and adults.
- When used for preventive purposes, the drug was dangerous to health, as it leads to mental disorders, kidney function, in some cases it is established that it helps to reduce the production of their own antibodies to the virus.
Based on these studies, health officials of the world's leading countries should decide to stop mass purchases of antiviral drugs with the active substance Oseltamivir due to the high risk of side effects and low effectiveness as a medicine for the therapy and prevention of influenza virus in 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 in time of the epidemic, countries such as the United Kingdom and the United States in 2009, in connection with the epidemic of swine flu, these drugs were purchased for 40 million. doses (US $ 1.3 billion dollars, Great Britain 424 million. f.St.).
Based on the latest data on the low effectiveness and non-safety of this antiviral, the international expert group on evidence-based medicine urged the governments of the world's leading countries to stop the massive purchases of drugs Tamiflu and Relenza.
Reviews: There are enough reviews about side effects in the form of vomiting, dizziness, psychosis, headache. The effectiveness of influenza is confirmed by many.
Price: Tamiflu-on average1200-1300rub.
Remantadine (Rimantadine)
Pharmacological action: antiviral drug, an adamantane derivative, suppresses various strains of the influenza A virus (swine flu including).
Side effects: contraindicated in pregnant women, children under 1 year. Reduces concentration of attention, causes dizziness, nervousness, headache, increased fatigue, nausea, vomiting, dryness in
mouth.Produced: information on the first uses of the drug are known since 1968.
Research: The tests were conducted from 1981 to 2006, mainly they showed a lower toxicity of Remantadine in comparison with Amantadine. One study showed the effectiveness of preventing Amantadine influenza infection by 61% in comparison with a placebo group and in the event that a person falls ill, then for 1 day reduced the febrile syndrome. In the same study, he was compared to Tamiflu, he gave an efficacy of 73% of the placebo group. Rimantadine (Remantadine) is currently considered a drug with proven clinical efficacy, but the possible resistance to it of some strains of the influenza virus.
Reviews: There are reviews that Remantadin causes side effects - dizziness, tachycardia, bitterness in the mouth. In general, the reviews are positive.
Price: Remantadine - average50-150rub.
It is during the flu (including swine) with the first symptoms of therapists and pediatricians recommend: adults - Remantadin, Tamiflu. Children over 1 year old are shown by Orvir (rimantadine syrup), Viferon. Children older than 8 years can - Remantadin (in the table), Tamiflu.
Interferon preparations
Interferons are informant proteins, which are excreted by cells infected with viruses. They seem to inform other cells about the infection and the required inactivation of the virus. Alpha interferons produce lymphocytes, beta - fibroblasts. In addition to Viferon, the alpha group includes Intron, Reaferon, Kipferon.
Viferon
The creation of the drug was scientifically justified in the period 1990-1995. group of scientists of the Research Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology. N.F. Gamaleia under the guidance of prof. Malinovskaya V.V.Since December 1996 on the basis of the same SRI, serial production of recombinant interferon alfa-2b in suppositories begins. Viferon - a candle with a different content of the active substance.
Application:
- Viferon-1 (150000 IU) is designed for babies from birth to 7 years. It is used in ARVI, herpetic infection, as an additional remedy for prolonged pneumonia or sepsis, including in preterm infants with intrauterine infections. The drug is given a course for 5 days. Children under 7 years are recommended 1 candle 2 times a day. Preterm, born on a period of more than 34 weeks - as children under 7 years. With a shorter gestation period - 1 candle 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, an adult drug in candles for 50, 00 IU is used twice a day for five days. Possible use of viferon in pregnant women.
- Candles with viferon content of , 0, 00 and , 0, 00 IU are used in the treatment of viral hepatitis and herpetic infections.
- The preparation in the form of ointment is intended for the therapy of herpes on the skin and mucous membranes in adults and children older than a year.
Side effects: the main side effect of drugs viferon may be an allergic reaction, which happens infrequently.
Research: As for the effectiveness of the drug, it is not included in list A of evidence-based pharmacology. I.e,wide randomized trials in humans consistent with international standards were not performed. However, a positive practical experience of treatment with viferon in pediatric practice is available. (By the way, nitroglycerin also does not have randomized studies that prove its effectiveness, which does not make it an ineffective first-line drug for stenocardia). Publications of these clinical trials of the drug are available only in Russian and were conducted only in domestic clinics. Value for money allows pediatricians to recommend a drug for ARVI treatment in children younger than seven years. For adults in the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections, the drug is of limited use because of rectal administration and the availability of alternative drugs.
The main arguments of the opponents of the drug:
- high molecular weight of protein molecules that can not be absorbed in the gut
- lack of clinical trials that meet international standards.
Kipferon
In candle light a little expensive for the treatment of common colds. Therefore, it is replaced by viferon. But, with severe forms of intestinal dysbiosis in children of the first two years of life, the drug shows good clinical results.Studies: Randomized trials were not conducted, that is, the drugrefers to the list of drugs with unproven effects. The main claims:
- High molecular weight, which prevents normal absorption
- Adding to the drug components of the donor blood, 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 older than four years. Produced in solution for injection, tablets, liniment. Refers to immunomodulating drugs, is an inducer of interferon, enhancing its production and exhibiting 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, viruses human papilloma and other urological and gynecological pathologies (eg, candidiasis, chlamydia).
Contraindications: The drug is not recommended for pregnant and lactating. May cause an allergic reaction.
Research: Cycloferon is an immunostimulant that stimulates the immune system and the production of interferons. To date, allclinical trialsthis drug, published in the medical literature,were conducted only in the territory of the Russian Federation and do not meet international standards.
According to tsikloferon there are no serious clinical trials that would prove its effectiveness or would be refuted absence of long-term adverse effects of this drug (development of autoimmune diseases). It is not superfluous to recall that all drugs that are on the pharma market for less than five years are still at the fifth level of pharmacological tests and it is quite possible to identify previously unknown undesirable effects from drugs of this kind. In the presence of newly identified harmful effects, the drug will be withdrawn from the pharmacy chains and discontinued, and the majority those who have been treated with this drug and have earned some disruptions in health are unlikely to receive at least some compensation.
Conclusions:
Ineffectiveness of antiviral agents due to the stability of strains of the virus
The lack of a positive effect with the use of some antiviral drugs for influenza is possible, and because of the appearance drug-resistant viruses and a specific influenza strain may already be resistant to a particular drug (eg, Remantadine).
Other treatments and placebo effect
It is also possible that patients whose reviews indicate the efficacy of such remedies were quickly recovered by other methods of symptomatic treatment, and the placebo effect is not excluded (cf. amazing facts about placebo).
Strong immunity
In a healthy organism, after 2-3 days, the immune system produces enough protective antibodies against the virus, it does not need additional medicines. It is enough to comply with all the known rules - bed rest, plentiful hot drink, vitaminized foods and drinks, clean air in the patient's room, gargling, etc.
Rapid recovery with antiviral drugs
In different life situations, reducing the duration of the disease even for one day can be very important, to example - wedding day, urgent business trip, important business deal, exam, interview, etc. It is in such cases that the use of antiviral drugs, which reduce the duration of the illness by 2-3 days, may make sense.
There are no adequate studies
The lack of benign research on the study of efficacy and side effects (on a large group of people, different ages, for a long time time), the majority of antiviral agents from Orvi and influenza suggest the caution of their use or even the rejection of them.
Do not spend money on pacifiers
Spending money, in some cases, considerable, on drugs with unproved efficacy, side effects, questionable safety, perhaps, is not advisable. Any medicine, even useless or empty, can damage the body.
Video transmission: How the placebo effect works
- from : 4 min. - about what means are usually prescribed by doctors
- from 2: 0 - about the effect of placebo on the functioning of the immune system
- from 3: 7 - about the high effect of placebo in children
- from 3: 5 - about preparations-pustachki, appointed or nominated at ORVI
- from 3: 0 - about homeopathy and antiviral drugs in ARVI
- from 4: 7 - about how modern research is conducted
zdravotvet.ru
Drugs used in ARVI and influenza
In the treatment of influenza and acute respiratory viral infections (ARI), different groups of drugs are used. They can be classified as follows:
- Antiviral drugs.
- Interferons and interferon inducers.
- Homeopathic and herbal remedies.
- Combined preparations.
- Symptomatic drugs.
Antiviral drugs
First-generation drugs - the so-called M2-channel blockers - suppress the multiplication of the virus after it enters the cell. Remantadine is effective against influenza A viruses, as well as pathogens of some forms of tick-borne encephalitis. Remantadine is not used to treat acute respiratory infections.
It is used for the prevention of influenza in the period of epidemics in adults and children, starting from the age of 7 years, as well as for the treatment of the disease that has arisen. Remantadine can disrupt the functioning of the digestive system, the nervous system. It is contraindicated in diseases of the liver and kidneys, thyrotoxicosis, pregnancy and lactation, children under 7 years. With great care, this drug should be used in people with hypertension, epilepsy and atherosclerosis of cerebral vessels.
The second generation of antiviral drugs against influenza is neuraminidase inhibitors. These include, in particular, oseltamivir (Tamiflu). This tool acts on all known varieties of the influenza virus. Its use helps reduce the mortality and frequency of complications from influenza, and also reduces the risk of developing a secondary bacterial infection. This drug is very effective, therefore it is usually recommended only in the period of pandemics in case of severe epidemiological situation. For the treatment of normal viral infection, this remedy is not recommended.Tamiflu can be used for the prevention and treatment of influenza in children older than 1 year and adults. Especially it is shown in closed collectives where the probability of an epidemic outbreak is high (for example, in military units).
The drug is fairly well tolerated. It is contraindicated in the severe stage of renal failure. It can be administered with caution to pregnant and lactating women.
Arbidol is a domestic preparation with direct activity against influenza viruses. It is also an immunomodulator. It can be used by people over the age of 3 to prevent and treat influenza and ARVI. The drug has virtually no side effects. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is not desirable to take it.
Interferons and interferon inducers
One of the most widely advertised means for ARVI and influenza is interferons and interferon inducers. Interferon - a protein produced in the human body, aimed at fighting the virus. Specific action he does not. The mechanism of action of the drugs of this group is based on the direct administration of interferon or on the stimulation of its formation in the body.
Grippferon contains interferon alfa-2b, it is available as a spray and ointment in the nose. It is used to treat and prevent ARVI and influenza in adults and children of any age, as well as in pregnant and lactating women. It is believed that the drug has an antiviral, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulating effect, but there are no serious scientific studies supporting these facts.Anaferon, Ergoferon - preparations related to immunostimulants. After ingestion, they increase the antiviral protection of a person. They are indicated for the prevention and treatment of ARVI and influenza, as well as other viral infections in children of any age, adults, pregnant and lactating. For people under the age of 18, Anaferon child is produced. The effectiveness of these drugs is not proven enough. Reviews of consumers and doctors about them are diametrically opposed.They do not cause any serious side effects. They are contraindicated for lactose intolerance and an individual allergic reaction.
Kagocel enhances the production in the body of its own interferon. It is believed that the drug has a direct antiviral effect. Apply it for the prevention and treatment of colds in people older than 3 years. The drug is contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation. Side effects are mainly individual intolerance.Homeopathic and herbal remedies
Oscillococcinum is a homeopathic drug used for the prevention and treatment of acute respiratory viral infections and mild influenza. You can use it at any age. Pregnant and lactating women need to be careful, but there are no direct contraindications for this medicine. It is not indicated only for patients with lactose intolerance.Immunal is a herbal remedy based on Echinacea herb. This medicinal plant stimulates immunity, has a direct antiviral effect. It is used primarily for the prevention of acute respiratory viral infection and influenza during the epidemic, is released in the form of tablets and in the solution for oral administration. Immunal can be taken to children older than 1 year (in the form of a solution) and older than 4 years (in the form of tablets). The duration of the course should be from one week to two months.The drug is well tolerated, but can cause an allergic reaction. It is contraindicated in severe systemic diseases (tuberculosis, blood diseases, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, connective tissue diseases). During pregnancy and breastfeeding, use of the drug is possible with caution.
Aflubin is a homeopathic drug used for the prevention and treatment of viral infections. It removes inflammation, improves immune defense, fights against fever and intoxication, destroys viruses. The drug accelerates the disappearance of symptoms - a cold, cough, sore throat and others. You can take it at any age, including pregnant and lactating mothers. Side effects include only individual intolerance to the components.Combined preparations
The best remedy for treating colds is to quickly relieve symptoms, improve health, be safe and convenient to use. Such requirements are met by modern combined means for ARVI and influenza. They usually include antipyretic agents (paracetamol), vitamins (ascorbic acid, rutin), decongestants (phenylephrine), antihistamines (phenyramine, dimedrol).
There are a lot of combined cold medicines on the market:
- Antigrippin
- Antiflu
- Vix asset
- Grippostad
- Grippoflu
- Cobweb
- Coldrex
- Lempipe
- Maxikold
- Pentaflucine
- Prostudox
- Rince
- Rinzasip
- Stopgripan
- Teraflu
- Fervex and others
Usually in one line of drugs there are means for children, with different tastes, with an increased content of individual substances, which allows you to choose the best option.
Most of the combined products are available in sachets containing powder for making a hot beverage. It is not recommended to take more than 3 sachets a day, as this may lead to an overdose of the components.
Side effects include disorders of the digestive system (abdominal pain, nausea), allergic reactions, in rare cases, changes in blood.
Use in pregnant and lactating mothers is often limited. It is necessary to consult with a gynecologist before using such combined aids.
Symptomatic means
To relieve some of the symptoms of colds, individual drugs are used.
Of antipyretics, paracetamol, ibuprofen, is well established. Adults are allowed to use acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin). Do not forget about the possible side effects of such drugs - irritation of the stomach and oppression of hematopoiesis.One of the most popular in ARVI means - decongestants. These drugs in the form of drops or sprays in the nose help to remove the swelling of the mucosa, restore normal nasal breathing. Do not forget about getting used to such drugs. When using them, frequent moistening of the nasal cavity with the help of means based on sea water is recommended.
With dry nauseous cough, antitussive drugs of central action help, suppressing this reflex reaction. Use them only if prescribed by a doctor. Many of them contain codeine and are sold by prescription (Terpinkod). One of the effective drugs for eliminating cough without codeine is Libexin.
When a cough with phlegm occurs, mucolytics should be prescribed. One of the most popular drugs of this group is lazolvan. It reduces the viscosity of sputum, reduces the elasticity of its filaments, makes it difficult to stick to the walls of the respiratory pathways, splits sputum into small parts, stimulates the development of a protective factor - surfactant. The medicine accelerates the movement of the cilia of the epithelium, contributing to their self-purification, stimulates local immunity, reduces the multiplication of viruses on the mucous membrane. You can use it both inside and for inhalations in adults and children.Lazolvan can cause nausea, pain in the abdomen, a change in taste. It is contraindicated in the first trimester of pregnancy and during breastfeeding. Caution should be used in people with impaired liver and kidney function.
Deserves attention to the drug Ascoril - a combination of mucolytic, expectorant and bronchodilator. It expands the bronchi and facilitates the excretion of sputum from them. Especially shown Ascoril in viral bronchitis in children. When used in high doses, the medicine can cause an increase in heart rate, headache, nausea and vomiting, exacerbation of gastric ulcer. Ascoril is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation, with diseases of the heart and thyroid gland, diabetes, stomach ulcer and duodenal ulcer, glaucoma, hypertension.Thus, the high frequency of viral infections and the variety of their symptoms cause the emergence of a large number of drugs designed to cope with the disease. In order not to damage your health and prevent the development of complications, it is recommended to consult a doctor when the first signs of a cold appear.
ingalin.ru
Antiviral drugs for ARVI. Comparison of drugs and reviews
A person is constantly surrounded by microorganisms. They can provoke ARVI. Viruses penetrate the body through the respiratory tract. To quickly stop unpleasant symptoms, you have to take antiviral drugs in ARVI. However, not every time when you come into contact with microorganisms, a person develops a disease. The immune system can perfectly resist them. But if the body's own defense does not cope, then the ailment can develop in all its might and even provoke serious lesions of the lungs, bronchi, and exacerbation of chronic pathologies.
Tactics of treatment
Most of the population, with the slightest cough and sneezing, takes out different medications from the medicine cabinet and begins to struggle intensively with the disease. In this case, the choice of many people with ARVI stops on antibiotics. For the first days of treatment, this tactic is wrong.
Antibacterial drugs have an effect on bacteria. The source of ARVI is a virus. Bacterial flora can only join on the 5th-7th day of the common cold. In this case, the appointment of an antibiotic is advisable. And for the prevention of such drugs are completely meaningless.
It is antiviral drugs in ARVI that are the means of choice. If the disease is mild, with high immune protection, then you can cope with the common cold even without medication. But if the disease "rewarded" the patient with all the unpleasant symptoms - a strong cough, a sudden runny nose, high fever, then it is just necessary to treat ARVI. Antiviral means will quickly stop the painful signs of a cold.
However, it is necessary to know that such medications are effective only at the initial stages of the disease. On the 3-5th day, such therapy will not bring the desired effect. If there is a multiplication and active distribution of a pathogenic agent through the body, then antiviral agents are not able to overcome the common cold.
Classification of drugs
In medical practice, there is a certain separation of all drugs according to the mechanism of exposure and origin. According to him, antiviral agents are classified as follows:
- Interferons. Such preparations contain certain substances of protein nature. Their main task is to prevent the spread of microorganisms. Interferon is an excellent protection against a viral infection provoked by ARVI. Treatment with these drugs helps to speed up recovery, greatly facilitates the therapeutic task. Initially, interferon medicine scientists received from the blood of a donor. Later, effective drugs were developed by artificial means - genetic engineering. The most effective medicines are "Interferon human leukocyte", "Viferon", "Grippferon". However, it should be remembered that any of these medicines should be prescribed by a doctor.
- Interferon inductors. This group of drugs works somewhat differently. The medicine, acting on the human body, actively stimulates the production of its own interferons. Thanks to this tactic, the drugs are widely used for cold pathologies, including ARVI. Treatment of colds with interferon inducers is very effective. Such funds allow you to stop the symptoms of influenza. The most common drugs are: Amiksin, Levomax, Arpefly, Arbidol, Immustat, Arbivir.
- Cyclic amines. The mechanism of action of this group is directed towards the suppression of the virus. Drugs, getting into the human body, contribute to the violation of the formation of the shell of the microorganism. Due to this effect, a high therapeutic effect of these medicines is achieved. The most effective representatives of the group are funds Remantadin, Remavir.
- Inhibitors of neuraminidase. Such antiviral agents affect only the influenza virus. Their action is based on inhibition of the neuraminidase enzyme. Thus, the virus is released from the infected cells. This allows to stop influenza in the initial stages and does not allow the viruses to escape from the respiratory tract. Medications excellently reduce the severity of symptoms and the patient quickly recovers. The most effective medicines are Zanamivir and Oseltamivir.
- Medicines of vegetable origin. Such group of antiviral medicines is united by one. They contain components of plant origin. The most famous drugs are "Proteflazid", "Flavazid", "Altabor", "Immunoflazid."
- Other antiviral drugs. Such a group includes medicines used for etiotropic treatment of influenza, ARVI, which are not included in any of the categories described above. These include Amizon, Engistol, Novirin, Groprinosin, Inosin.
How to choose a drug?
No one is immune from a cold. Therefore, with the first symptoms, everyone is trying to find a good antiviral drug. What do doctors advise? Doctors recommend using the following tools:
- Medicines that affect the viruses. Such drugs contribute to the disruption of the process of reproduction of microorganisms. As a result, the patient quickly recovers. These antiviral drugs in acute respiratory infections are highly effective and have a rapid effect on the body. But they have a drawback. Most of them affect certain types of microorganisms. With other viruses, they can be useless. Such drugs of direct action are "Arbidol", "Tamiflu", "Remantadin", "Ingavirin".
- Interferon preparations. Under the protection of such substances, cells of the body become insensitive to viruses. Drugs are quite effective in ARVI, influenza. The effect of these drugs is aimed at increasing the artificial level of interferon. Such means are "Kipferon" and its analogs.
- Medications that enhance the synthesis of interferon. These are highly effective antiviral medicines, the impact on the body of which is the most physiological. Such drugs are "Tsikloferon", "Kagocel".
It is important not only to choose the right antiviral drug, but also to start it in time. Be sure to follow the instructions. Each of the medicines must be taken as many days as it is written in the annotation, even if the symptomatology of ARVI has already passed. Only then can we expect that the medicine will fully relieve the disease.
Research of medical scientists
Comparative characteristics of medicines were of interest to many doctors. Doctors have set a goal to determine a good antiviral drug. To do this, they conducted a controlled study of several drugs on their effectiveness for preventive purposes. In this experience, more than 70 thousand people took part. The results of the study are presented in the table.
Name of the medicine |
Efficiency index |
Amiksin |
, |
Arbidol |
, |
Reaferon |
, |
"Cycloferon" |
, |
Polyoxidonium |
, |
Anaferon |
, |
The study found:
- Admission of antiviral drugs for preventive purposes reliably protects the patient from ARVI.
- People who still had ARVI, flu, transferred them in mild form. In such patients, mild symptoms and a brief increase in temperature were observed.
- Complications after the disease did not occur.
Let us consider which antiviral drugs in ARVI are most in demand among the population.
Tamiflu Medicine
This drug refers to the medicines of the latest generation. Doctors consider the drug Tamiflu to be effective enough in the fight against acute respiratory infections. The price, unfortunately, is high for this product, and many patients can not afford it.
The drug can not be used for prevention, since it has a pronounced toxicity. In addition, doctors do not recommend long-term use of the drug "Tamiflu." Since, according to the latest research by Japanese doctors, the remedy can lead to:
- to the disturbance of the psyche;
- depressive state;
- propensity to suicide;
- psychosis.
The preparation is available in the form of powder for the preparation of suspension and in the form of capsules. The main impact of this tool is the successful suppression of virus growth and replication.
The drug has the following contraindications:
- allergy to the components of the product;
- renal failure, occurring in acute form.
It is strictly prohibited to use the drug for children under 12 years old. Before using Tamiflu, pregnant and lactating mothers, it is necessary to consult a doctor.
The drug has many side effects:
- nausea, vomiting;
- insomnia, headache;
- cough;
- stomach ache;
- acute sinusitis, otitis media, pneumonia (such complications can be observed in children).
Be sure to consult a doctor if you have decided to use Tamiflu to fight ARVI.
The price of this medication, as noted above, is quite high, and varies between 1000-1400 rubles.
The effectiveness of the drug and its safety have been carefully studied to this day. It should be emphasized that the drug is indeed recognized as toxic. However, doctors who practice the treatment of viral infections with the drug Tamiflu, speak about it very positively. Many clinics have proven the effectiveness of this drug in fighting some strains of influenza. But at the same time one can not rule out the high probability of side effects.
The drug "Amiksin"
The medicine is an excellent immunomodulatory, antiviral agent. This medication refers to artificially created interferon inducers. The highest concentration of the necessary substance in the blood, intestines and liver is observed 4-24 hours after the drug "Amiksin." The price of the drug is quite acceptable. Therefore, such a tool is often used to prevent and treat ARVI.
The medication is available in the form of coated tablets.
The main contraindications for taking medication are:
- sensitivity to components;
- pregnancy;
- lactation period;
- children under 7 years.
The drug "Amiksin" is perfectly combined with antibiotics, which can be prescribed by a doctor for the treatment of infection.
The medicine can provoke the following side effects:
- dyspepsia;
- an allergic reaction;
- short-term chill.
In general, the drug "Amiksin" is quite safe. The price of the medicine is about 500 rubles.
Means of "Kagotsel"
This medicine belongs to the inducers of interferon. It is effective in the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections, influenza. In order to get a favorable result from the treatment, it is necessary to apply the drug Kagocel in the first day after the onset of the illness. The price for this drug is low enough that it allows the use of the drug to almost any patient.
Contraindications to the use of the medicine are:
- individual sensitivity;
- intolerance to galactose;
- pregnancy;
- lactation period;
- age up to 6 years;
- lactose insufficiency.
The drug is well tolerated by patients and very rarely causes side effects. In isolated cases, an allergic reaction to the Kagocel drug may develop. The price of the drug is about 200 rubles.
The medicine "Ingavirin"
The drug is highly effective against many viruses. It is widely used not only for the treatment of colds, but also for preventive purposes. This drug should not be combined with drugs that have antiviral activity.
The effect of this drug on the human body is due to its ability to inhibit the reproduction of viruses. Thus, the drug suppresses the development of the common cold at the initial stage. It reduces febrile, intoxication periods, significantly reduces the risk of various complications.
The drug is available only in the form of capsules.
The medicine practically does not cause side effects and most people are well tolerated. Very rarely there may be allergic reactions.
Contraindications to the use of the drug are:
- pregnancy;
- age to 18 years;
- individual sensitivity to the ingredients of the drug.
Doctors confirm that if you were prescribed Ingavirin for ARVI, the application (the price of the medicine is 412.50 rubles) will be very effective.
The drug "Arbidol"
The drug is very popular. After all, this medicine is an effective antiviral agent of a wide spectrum of action. It can suppress a wide variety of viruses. Its effectiveness is explained by the ability to reduce the painful period and reduce the severity of cold symptoms.
The drug is low toxicity. During the treatment, he practically does not cause any serious complications. The medicine is in the form of capsules.
Contraindicated this remedy:
- children under three years;
- pregnant women;
- Persons suffering from hypersensitivity to the active substance.
Despite the fact that there are practically no negative reviews about the drug, the instruction gives the following side effects that may arise during the use of these capsules:
- stomach pain;
- angioedema;
- dermatitis of different types.
The price of the medicine is 140-600 rubles (depending on the dosage and packaging).
Remantidine remedy
Medication has been used for many years to treat and prevent viral infections. It effectively slows the reproduction of the virus after penetration into the cell. Remantadine is used for colds since the 1970s. Since then, he has passed many tests and various studies, as a result of which his excellent antiviral properties were fully confirmed.
Contraindicated drug under the following factors:
- kidney pathologies (acute, chronic);
- pregnancy;
- lactation period;
- acute liver diseases;
- individual sensitivity to the components of the drug;
- thyrotoxicosis;
- children under 7 years.
The medication is well tolerated by patients. But sometimes it can provoke the development of side effects:
- various rashes;
- diarrhea, indigestion;
- hoarseness of voice;
- decreased attention, drowsiness;
- depression;
- hyperkinesis;
- violation of gait;
- noise in ears.
It is extremely undesirable to combine the use of Remantadine with alcohol-containing beverages. This combination can provoke unwanted phenomena from the nervous system. The effect of the drug on the body reduces the funds "Paracetamol", "Aspirin".
Despite its high effectiveness, Remantadine is an inexpensive antiviral agent. Its cost varies from 50-170 rubles.
Drops "Derinat"
The drug is a new medicine that allows you to quickly and effectively treat ARVI. The medicine is available only in the form of nasal drops. The drug "Derinat" is an effective immunostimulant. This drug, entering the body, very quickly begins to fight with microorganisms. It provides excellent and timely synthesis of interferon.
Antiviral drops "Derinat" do not have age-related contraindications. They can be used even for the treatment of babies. In this case, the therapeutic task is greatly simplified. Since it is much easier for the babies to use the medicine in the form of drops.
The facility will cost the buyer 230-300 rubles.
Patient Reviews
Concerning the effectiveness of the drug Amiksin, the opinions of consumers are divided. Some argue that the drug quickly enough to put on your feet, if you start treatment in time. Other consumers advise not to throw money away.
Most people agree that the drug "Kagotsel" is quite effective. This tool allows you to quickly and easily recover from viral infections. In addition, patients especially note the minimum number of side effects. This indicates the safety of the drug.
The drug "Ingavirin" refers to a fairly effective means. Thus patients emphasize, that 3-4 days after the beginning of the use of the given medicine the symptoms of the disease completely disappears. But if the initial stage of the common cold is missed, the drug, like other antiviral medicines, is completely ineffective.
Despite the fact that the price is not available for everyone on Arbidol, the reviews about this drug are mostly positive. Many patients who use the drug for several years, show that the medicine really helps to quickly and easily eliminate the initial stage of the disease. However, there are always opponents. Some people argue that the drug is ineffective and almost does not help with viral infections. In most cases, these are patients who have already developed the disease in full force.
Popular among the population is the remedial medicine Remantadin. Its high efficiency is verified by time and various studies.
Widespread popularity deserved drops "Derinat". Customer feedback confirms the effective use of this medication. It is allowed to apply to pregnant women, infants. With timely-begun therapy, ARVI completely recedes.
No matter how great the antiviral medicine does not seem, do not forget that the drug should be used as directed by the doctor and strictly follow the instructions.
syl.ru
Effective drugs for ARVI and influenza
At the time of worsening epidemiological situation, the question of how to effectively treat ARVI and influenza is very acute; drugs, which offers modern pharmacological industry, help not only to eliminate the symptoms of viral diseases, but also to influence the mechanisms of their development, which makes them the main means of treating viral infections.
Influenza is a part of the ARVI group, so this type of illness is similar in its symptoms. The difference is the duration of the incubation period, the course of the disease and the complications of advanced forms of the disease. The similarity of the symptoms makes it possible to apply an identical remedy for cold and flu for therapeutic therapy.
Features of viral infections
To select the effective treatment of viral respiratory diseases, the doctor focuses on such symptoms as:
- fever, chills;
- pain in the muscles;
- headache;
- general malaise, weakness;
- high body temperature;
- change in the condition of the lymph nodes;
- inflammatory processes in the airways.
In some cases, there may be swelling of the larynx mucosa, coughing and lacrimation. Influenza begins suddenly and has more severe symptoms than SARS or ARI. With a typical manifestation of these types of viral infection and their course for more than 7 days, the doctor prescribes effective medications for cold and flu. Especially it concerns small children, if begun ORVI is complicated by additional symptoms from other organs. Of great importance in this case is antiviral therapy, which consists of three main areas:
- influence on the cause of the disease and directly on the virus-causative agent with the help of etiotropic drugs;
- influence on the mechanisms of the development of the disease;
- elimination of painful symptoms.
When new symptoms appear in the form of a cough, runny nose, fever, only the use of antiviral medicines helps. During this period, active propagation of the virus-agent occurs, therefore, as soon as the patient began to observe these symptoms of a cold, these medications must be taken immediately. After a few days, taking these medicines will be useless.
Classification of antiviral agents
Drugs from influenza and colds are divided into several groups:
- interferons and their inducers;
- antiviral antibiotics;
- antiviral phytopreparations;
- stimulants of immunity - immunomodulators.
Due to their effectiveness, the multiplication of viruses in cells ceases, which allows us to further protect the body from a virus attack.Interferon is a powder that is dissolved in boiled water.
It is taken immediately before contact with the infected person and before leaving for places with a large population of people. Use the drug as follows: dissolved powder is injected into each nasal canal for 5 drops for 2 times a day.
For today it is the best remedy for viral diseases. The earlier his reception is begun, the more effective he will show himself. When the infection begins, the dosage of the drug is changed. The drug is administered 5 drops every 2 hours (5 times a day).
Treatment continues for three days. You can treat the disease with Interferon, using it as a substance for inhalation: in 10 ml of warm water dilute 3 ampoules. The thermal procedure is carried out 2 times a day for 3 days.
To this group of drugs is another means for influenza and viral infections - Grippferon, which is a combined preparation of preventive and curative action. The drug is instilled in the nasal passages every 4 hours for 3 drops. If the patient is sensitive to the components of the drug, its use is discontinued. It is contraindicated for pregnant women, especially in the early stages.ARI and influenza are treated with Viferon. Recently, doctors recommend it for treatment of young children as the best tool to help stimulate the formation of interferons in the body. They have a depressing effect on different groups of viruses such drugs from influenza and ARVI, as Amiksin, Lavomax, where the active substance is Tyloron.
Arpeflus, Arbidol, Immustat - a group of drugs that help increase the body's resistance to viral infections. The main substance in them is Umifenovir.
Other antiviral agents
Treatment for colds and influenza is also carried out with the help of other drugs that inhibit the process of reproduction of the virus by affecting its shell. These medications include Remavir, Rimantadine.
For children this type of medicine is prescribed for treatment and prevention. Packaged powders are diluted in water and given in the scheme. As a preventive tool, it is recommended to drink the medicine for two weeks with 1 diluted bag (the dosage varies according to the age of the child).All these groups of drugs have side effects and contraindications. To avoid severe consequences, it is necessary to carry out a sensitivity test and strictly observe the dosages for the treatment prescribed by the doctor. The most common side effects are nausea, dizziness, stools, hypertension, allergies. Especially cautiously should take these drugs to people with kidney disease.
Other types of drugs that act solely on the influenza virus are neuraminidase inhibitors. These include Zanamivir, Relenza. These drugs are used only as inhalants as a curative and preventive agent. Preparations in which the active substance is Zanamivir, have a high degree of toxicity, which demonstrates a large number of side effects. Very carefully it should be taken to people with kidney diseases and prone to allergic reactions.
Preparations of the natural group
Inhibiting the activity of influenza virus neuraminidase and helping the body to produce its own interferon are antiviral drugs of plant origin.Effective among them are Proteflazide, Flavozid, Altabor, Immunoflazid, in which the extract is an active alder. This type of medicines has not only antiviral, but also antibacterial action. For medicinal and prophylactic purposes, the medicine is taken three times a day, dissolving two tablets. The course of treatment is 7 days.
If a patient has increased sensitivity to this group of drugs, the doctor appoints others. Against the background of long-term use of drugs in this group, there may be an allergic reaction. When pregnancy and breast-feeding, they are also not recommended.
To reduce and stop the multiplication of viruses, the administration of Proteflazide, Flavozide, Immunoflazide, which are made on the basis of medicinal herbs of pike and turtle, terrestrial.
This group of medicines is also characteristic of its immunomodulating feature. Doctors appoint them as a curative and preventive agent. Immunoflazid - syrup, which is used for two weeks twice a day for 9 ml. With a preventive purpose, it is consumed within a month.The drug Flavozid is taken according to the scheme: 5 ml twice a day from the first to the third day of the disease, starting with the fourth - 8 ml. Preparations made on the basis of phytocomponents almost never show side effects. Their reception is contraindicated only to pregnant women in the first trimester, as well as during lactation.
Complex homeopathic antiviral drugs that suppress the active action of viruses are Engistol, Sagrippin, Amizon, which have antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, interferonogenic properties.
Treatment of children
In acute respiratory viral diseases, pediatricians recommend the use of homeopathic medicines - candles, powders, syrups. These types of drugs actively suppress viral attacks and increase the protective properties of the child's body. These include Viburkol and Aflubin, Gripp-Heel, EDAS-903 and others. Significant effectiveness of these drugs with simple forms of viral diseases.
Some pediatricians are inclined to believe that not all phyto-drugs have an effective antiviral effect, so they advise not to experiment with the health of the child. If the drug does not begin to show therapeutic effect within 24 hours, it should be replaced with a drug of another group.Treatment of influenza and colds in children is carried out with drugs such as Arbidol, Rimantadine, Ribavirin, Tamiflu. In some cases, it is recommended to take Acyclovir, which acts on many types of viruses. Rimantadine, as a rule, is used only to neutralize the influenza virus, it does not have the proper effect on other types of viruses.
This drug is considered the most in demand during the flu epidemic as a preventive. It is shown in the treatment of children and Ribavirin, which in its spectrum of action is very similar to Rimantadine. In addition, it has a depressing effect on the virus that causes pneumonia in infants. If there is a decrease in the effectiveness of rimantadine, it is advised to replace it with Ribavirin.
The spread of the virus in the child's body delays Arbidol. Despite its popularity in ARVI, it can only have a curative effect on influenza viruses. Of all antiviral drugs for children, Tamiflu is recognized as the most effective.
Its activity is observed not only in the early stages of the disease, but also in the period of exacerbation. Its effect is several times stronger than other drugs. Tamiflu has side effects, so it is prescribed only to children who are 12 years old.
Assign drugs and interferon group with a child's dosage - suppositories Viferon, drops Grippferon, suppositories Kipferon. The drug of the new domestic pharmacy Derinat, despite its recent existence on the pharmacological market, has won many positive reviews.
It is available in the form of drops. This helps start an active fight against the viruses through the nasopharynx, preventing them from penetrating further into the body. The drug helps to strengthen the effect of drugs that treat a child in conjunction with Derinatom. It is allowed to use this medicine for infants from the first days of life.
Sometimes children are prescribed immunostimulating agents - Riboxin, IRS 19, Imudon, Bronhomunal, Metiluracil. There are separate types of these medicines, prescribed by the pediatrician as a preventive medicine, and those that can appoint only physicians immunologists after a special diagnosis of the immune characteristics of the child's body. It must be remembered that immunostimulants do not have a therapeutic effect during the active development of the disease. They are used before the infection begins to multiply in the body.
respiratoria.ru
Measures for the prevention of influenza
Every person is periodically ill with infectious diseases that affect everyone, regardless of age or sex - influenza and ARI. The patient is helpless for several weeks, feels weak, suffers from fever, headache and intoxication. The mortality of a viral disease is relatively high: for 2000 people 1 death is recorded. Prevention of influenza, according to doctors, is an effective way to avoid infection, because the disease is easier to prevent than treat.
Prevention of flu by folk remedies for colds
Most people believe that it is possible to protect themselves from infection only through a gauze mask. However, nonspecific prevention of diseases, primarily, is based on increased immunity. Folk remedies help to increase the general resistance of the organism to various pathogens. Similarly, homeopathy does not stimulate the production of specific immunity in humans. It is subject exclusively to the vaccine.
Treating flu with folk remedies, although it gives an effect, is very low. To achieve a meaningful result, it is necessary to systematically prevent the disease. If you use folk recipes, preventive measures should be carried out constantly (as a way of life). A useful injection of the vaccine is done once a year. Advantages of folk remedies like virus prevention are:
- their sparing for the body action;
- minimal amount of side effects;
- absence of contraindications (allowed in pregnancy, allowed for preschool children, nursing mothers);
- universal action (prevent not only the flu, but also other diseases);
- they are inexpensive, compared to pharmacy drugs.
Garlic
Garbage is a proven method of preventing influenza. To avoid infection with seasonal viruses and survive the epidemic, adults and children are recommended to eat a couple of garlic cloves daily. If the child does not want to eat a sharp product, it is worth trying another way of prevention - inhalation. For this you need to pass through a press or rub 2-3 cloves of garlic and a bowl. While the mush is fresh, the baby should breathe in pairs, alternating breaths through the nose and mouth. Because the virus concentrates in the airways, such prevention is very effective.
Vitamins
Mitigating the symptoms of influenza is considered the right method of therapy. In the opinion of naturopaths, it is inadvisable to take antibiotics in this case, since they do not have an effect on the virus. Traditional medicine will be the ideal solution. To saturate the body with vitamins that play the role of immunomodulators, they eat honey, drink fruit drinks, compotes of berries (cranberries, raspberries, cowberry), herbal decoctions with lemon. For the prevention of viral diseases, it is necessary to consume about 500 mg of ascorbic acid per day.
Inhalation
A quick way to defeat the runny nose is by inhalation. For the prevention of influenza, 500 ml of water is poured into a small saucepan, brought to a boil, then removed from the fire and added to the liquid essential oil of eucalyptus or mint (5-7 drops). Often, inhalations are carried out using herbal decoctions. Sage, oregano, lavender are boiled in boiling water for 10 minutes. Then you should breathe the steam over the pan for 10-15 minutes, covering your head with a towel. For the prevention of viral diseases make the procedure 1 time per day.
Prevention of ARVI diseases with antiviral drugs
Means for the prevention of acute respiratory infections have a bacterial-stimulating and immunomodulating effect. Drugs that provide protection against influenza often act on the organs of the central nervous system (CNS). It is worthwhile to study in detail the instructions and contraindications before starting any medication, including homeopathy. Panacea for the treatment of influenza modern pharmaceutics does not have, because strains and forms of the virus are constantly changing.
Tablets against influenza
- Amantadine, remantadine. Assigned to patients with the type of influenza A (pandemic species, which includes avian, pig, etc.). Taking the pill within the first 2 days after infection, it is possible to shorten the duration of the disease and blunt the first symptoms of the flu. For the B group virus, these drugs will be ineffective. For prevention, no more than 5 mg per kg of adult body weight is prescribed. In childhood (up to 7 years), taking these medications is prohibited.
- Arbidol. The drug suppresses the pathogens of influenza types A and B, increases the body's resistance to viruses. Even when in contact with a contagious person, the remedy protects against the development of influenza. For prophylaxis take 1 capsule per day for two weeks. Such antiviral drugs against influenza like Arbidol are contraindicated in people with serious diseases of the kidneys, cardiovascular system and liver.
- Amiksin. They apply an agent for the treatment and prevention of many viral diseases, including influenza, hepatitis, herpes and others. Tablets suppress the development of viruses, so they are often prescribed to adults who are ill or those who risk becoming infected while working in public places. Drink Amiksin should be 1 time a week for 1 tablet. Abstain from the prevention of acute respiratory disease and colds with this drug is for women during pregnancy or lactation, children under 7 years, with hypersensitivity to its components.
- Aflubin. Syrup refers to homeopathic preparations, it can stimulate the immune system and increase the protective functions of the body. Infant for one year, prescribed 1 drop of funds, mixed in a small amount of milk or water, three times a day. Children under 12 years should take 4-5 drops at least three times a day. Adults drink syrup on 10 drops up to 8 times a day. The duration of therapy for influenza is 5-10 days. For prevention, the drug is taken twice a day for 20 days.
- Viferon. Candles are used, since the first hours of illness. Viferon effectively destroys viruses and stimulates immunity. Doctors prescribe a drug for the prevention or therapy of acute respiratory disease and influenza, even for young children and the elderly due to the sparing effect of funds on the body. Scheme of taking Viferon: 1 candle per day for 5 days. Often, to fix the result, a second course of therapy is performed.
- Teraflu. Such powders and tablets containing paracetamol are considered to be the most effective for preventing colds. Their lack is a high degree of toxicity. Paracetamol-based drugs can cause stomach pain or colic, and they have a harmful effect on the liver and kidneys. Doctors recommend not taking such drugs for the prevention of influenza, but using Teraflu, Coldrex and Other remedies of this group exclusively in cases of severe illness with a persistently high temperature.
Nasal drops
- Grippferon. Drops, in order to prevent ARI and other viral diseases, are buried in the nose twice a day. For the treatment of influenza, the agent is used 4-5 times a day. As a rule, Grippferon is not used in an epidemic, but only for the time of contact with sick people. Doctors do not recommend using the drug for longer than 5-7 days. Grippferon for prevention is prescribed for adults and children from 1 year.
- Ingaron. The drug differs from analogues in that its effectiveness is the same at all stages of the flu: from development to recovery. Studies have shown that viruses are not able to get used to the components of droplets. It is forbidden to apply Ingaron to women during pregnancy and to babies under 7 years. The preparation is in the form of a powder, which should be diluted with water. The daily dosage for the prevention of viral infections is 50, 00 IU.
- Derinat. The only preparation of the group of antiviral drugs that does not contain interferon. Due to its special composition, the drops are effective even against fungal damage or bacterial infection of the body. Derinat helps the regeneration of the nasal mucosa after the destructive effect of viruses. For prevention, the drug is used once a day. If the symptoms of acute respiratory viral infection have already manifested, the nose is digested twice a day at intervals of about 12 hours.
Ointment for nose
- Oxolin. Ointment in the nose is used to prevent acute viral infections 2-3 times a day, lubricating it with the internal cavity of the nostrils. The course lasts 20-25 days during the most dangerous period of the epidemic. For therapy of the common cold Oxolinum is used for 3-5 days. Prevention of influenza in pregnant women is severely limited. As a result, cheap oksolinovaya ointment is very helpful. Along with the intake of vitamin remedies, it is the main means of preventing influenza.
- Flemming ointment. Homeopathic remedy is used for the therapy of rhinitis and sinusitis. Ointment has antibacterial action, activates microcirculation of blood and increases the protective function of immunity. For prophylaxis apply the drug as follows: the contents of the tube in a small amount squeezed out on a cotton swab and applied to the mucous membrane of each nostril. The procedure is repeated in the morning and evening.
Vaccination against influenza
The vaccine is considered the most reliable way to prevent the flu during an epidemic. It strengthens the immune system, which after vaccination can suppress any viruses of colds. The main function of a healing injection is to prevent infection with influenza. Especially dangerous are complications after a disease, for which the vaccine is the main enemy. Signs of worsening state of health after the flu are malfunctioning of the cardiovascular system, liver, kidneys, respiratory organs.
The most common vaccines for influenza are: Begrivac, Grippol, Agrippal, Influvac, Fluarix. Everyone has the right to independently choose a remedy based on his state of health and financial possibilities. However, before you can be vaccinated, it is necessary to visit a doctor. Vaccination against influenza is allowed from a six-month age, but some categories of people doctors strongly recommend taking an injection. The high-risk group includes:
- patients with diabetes mellitus;
- pregnant women;
- suffering from impaired metabolism;
- elderly people (from 50 years);
- children from six months to adulthood;
- patients on inpatient treatment;
- people with diseases of the kidneys, lungs, heart or vessels;
- schoolchildren, preschoolers and students;
- people with immunodeficiency;
- infected with staphylococcal infection.
A frequent phenomenon when vaccinated against influenza is a side reaction to vaccination. To avoid the negative effects of vaccination, you need to warn the doctor about the existing diseases or those that you have suffered in the last month. The specialist should also be aware of allergic reactions to any drugs and products. Grafted people report flu-like symptoms in the first days after the injection. It:
- headache;
- a slight increase in temperature;
- redness of the inoculation site;
- slight weakness.
The vaccine from SARS is allowed to be administered even to lactating mothers. Breastfeeding does not in any way affect the immune response and is not considered a contraindication to vaccination against influenza. In addition, antibodies produced by the mother's body, penetrating through breast milk, serve as additional protection for the child from viruses. It is forbidden to give a nurse a nipple with a cold or other cold symptoms.
Video Tips from Dr. Komarovsky
The flu is very easily transmitted. The most common methods of infection are airborne and household. When talking, sneezing, coughing from the nasopharynx of an infected sputum, containing pathogens, capable of spreading to 2-3 meters around the patient. As a rule, the flu manifests itself immediately in an acute form. The incubation period lasts from 2 to 5 days, after the symptoms of the virus are diagnosed. To avoid inpatient treatment in the clinic, it is important to conduct seasonal prevention of the disease.
Antiviral drugs for children
A child's cold is a frequent occurrence. It indicates a low protective function of immunity, susceptibility of the baby's body to cold, viruses, infections. The main difficulty of treating babies is the inability to use effective means. They are contraindicated for small children due to their complex composition. A child antiviral agent should be free of side effects. After watching the video, you will learn about TOP preparations for the prevention of viruses, including influenza, in children.
What distinguishes ARVI from ARI
Catarrhal diseases often affect children, but not adults. With the onset of cold weather, parents face a poor state of health of a child who has a fever, a cough, a runny nose. The cause of such symptoms can serve as acute respiratory viral infection, acute respiratory disease or influenza. What is the difference between diseases? Learn about this and methods of disease prevention by watching the video.
Vaccination against influenza
The first sign of the approaching epidemic is mass vaccination against influenza. To prevent the spread of the virus, the state creates a plan of activities that are implemented in all institutions. This is a memo about the disease, thematic sambulletin, posters. Their main theme is vaccination against influenza. After watching the video, you will find out whether it is worth it to vaccinate to prevent infection with the virus.
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What antibiotics to take with influenza and ARVI: list of names
Antibiotics for flu and cold doctor will appoint immediately after the appearance of the first signs of angina or pneumonia. This is important both for adult patients and for children. Drugs from the group of macrolides or penicillins may be recommended.
When ARVI often develop pathological processes in the paranasal sinuses - sinusitis. This disease is a serious signal about the need for antibiotic therapy. When a yellow nose is troubled by yellow mucus discharge and pain syndrome near the bridge of the nose, consult an otolaryngologist and take an X-ray.
In some cases, antibiotic therapy may be necessary for prophylactic purposes, for example, after a surgical procedure. Usually, it is enough to drink a wide-spectrum drug for 5 days. Thus, doctors try to minimize the development of complications against a background of reduced immunity.
If it is a child, the treatment has its own nuances and antibiotics for ARVI are chosen differently. Dr. Yevgeny Komarovsky tells about this in more detail in his TV programs.
What antibiotics are needed?
Starting from the form of the disease, the general health of the patient, his age, and treatment will be selected. Penicillins are prescribed only to those patients who suffer from a tendency to allergic reactions. Angina is treated with the means:
- Ecoclave;
- Augmentin;
- Amoxiclav.
With respiratory infections, the standard drugs are macrolides. Antibiotics for ARVI in adults with bronchitis: Macropen, Zetamax. Diseases of the ear, throat and nose will help cure funds Hemomycin, Sumamed, Azitrox.
When a patient observes resistance to penicillin drugs, he needs to take tablets from a number of fluoroquinolones. These are medications Norfloxacin, Levofloxacin.
Such funds are strictly forbidden to children. Their skeleton is not completely formed, and therefore the probability of unpredictable negative reactions of the body (in detail about antibiotics for patients of this age, says Dr. Komarovsky). In addition, fluoroquinolones are the drugs of the reserve group, which are necessary for the patient in adulthood. If you take them ahead of time, they will get used to them.
With influenza and viral infection, when there is a temperature, the doctor should choose a means that will competently combat the disease and at the same time not trigger the onset of adverse reactions.
The problem of the last time is that with each season the pathogens become more resistant to antibiotics.
How correctly to accept?
The use of antibiotics in ARVI is indicated only when it is impossible to recover without them. If the form of a cold is easy, it is enough to take antiviral drugs. Additional therapy is necessary if:
- A bacterial infection joined the signs of the disease;
- high total body temperature lasts more than 3 days;
- there was a purulent discharge;
- the general condition of the patient worsened.
When there are complications of flu or cold, the doctor must take an interest in the patient, what he took antibiotics in ARI. It should be noted that the same agent is not able to work with the same efficacy in the treatment of different patients.
To select the most suitable antibiotic, an antibacterial sowing is required. This will help to determine the degree of sensitivity of microorganisms to certain agents. However, there is not always time for such a laboratory test. Its duration is from 2 to 7 days. During this period, the patient's condition may significantly worsen.
If there are indications for taking an antibiotic, it should be drunk strictly according to the scheme suggested by the doctor. Even with a single pass of the medicine, the symptoms of the disease and high fever will manifest themselves with renewed vigor.
Between taking the medicine must pass a certain amount of time. If the doctor recommended taking the drug twice a day, the interval will be 12 hours.
Duration of treatment
Regardless of which group of antibiotics the drug belongs to, it should be taken at least 5 days. If already the next day after the start of therapy the patient will note an improvement in well-being is forbidden:
- discontinue treatment;
- reduce the dosage of tablets.
Otherwise, the treatment will not be of use, and if the funds of the same group are reappointed, its effectiveness will be in doubt.
There is a separate type of drugs with prolonged action. They are necessary in particularly difficult cases. The scheme of their admission is divided into stages. The patient should drink a pill 3 days, and then take a break for the same period. Take such antibacterial drugs should be in 3 calls.
Probiotics
Even the most expensive and effective antibiotic in ARVI kills not only pathogenic microorganisms, but also useful ones. This is especially dangerous for young patients, as confirmed by Dr. Komarovsky.During treatment, the normal intestinal microflora is always disturbed. For this reason, in addition, you should take special drugs that can restore the body. Excellent proven themselves: Lineks, Bifiform, Gastrofarm, Narine. They are taken between the reception of antibiotics.
It is very useful during the treatment period to drink more sour-milk products and generally observe a special diet. It is necessary to include in me the maximum quantity of vegetables and fruits. Renounce acute and fatty.
If the disease lasts for a long time, the liver of a person begins to function poorly. Therefore, it is the light plant products that relieve the load from the organ. White wheat bread is a good substitute for black bread, and sweets and confectionery are dried fruits.
List of drugs for adults
With flu and a complicated cold, the doctor selects suitable antibiotics for the patient, which are divided into groups:
- cephalosporins. These are semi-synthetic antibacterial agents of a wide spectrum. There are several of their generations, but the most popular are Tseporin, Asperer, Cefalexin. They are prescribed for various problems of the respiratory system;
- fluoroquinolones. Antibiotics of a wide spectrum of action. Characterized by rapid absorption in soft tissues. The best are considered to be Moxifloxacin, Levofloxacin. They can not be used to treat pregnant women, nursing women, children, people with epilepsy. There are cases of serious allergies to the drugs of this group. The standard dosage is 500 mg three times a day;
- macrolides. They have a powerful bacteriological effect. Can be used to treat complications of acute respiratory viral infection (angina, bronchitis, pneumonia, otitis, purulent sinusitis), with influenza. This group includes Erythromycin, Azithromycin. The effect of treatment with macrolides is noticeable only after 2-3 days after the start of the course. The mentioned means are allowed for pregnant women and during lactation. The daily dose can not be more than 1.5 g (it is divided into 6 receptions);
- penicillins. Such antibiotics work well for staphylococci and streptococci. The most popular are Amoxicillin, Amoxiclav. The group is the least toxic. There is an opportunity to apply for the treatment of children. The temperature drops noticeably after a few days, the general course of therapy lasts no less than 5 days. In particularly difficult cases, penicillins require the use of 10 to 14 days.
Each of the considered means has its contra-indications. Do not arbitrarily change the dosage of antibiotics or stop treatment altogether.
Antibiotics for a child (Dr. Komarovsky)
Many doctors and Eugene Komarovsky, emphasize that a normal viral infection does not require treatment with antibiotics! They are only needed when bacteria are attached to the flu.Antibiotics, which kill bacteria well, will not affect viruses in any way. When a child is treated with such medications for viral diseases, Komarovsky insists, in addition to side effects, the patient will have a serious problem - resistance to antibiotics.
The list of drugs allowed for children is given below.
If a child aged 3 months has a fever, the doctor will appoint Augmentin. The preparation can be purchased in the form of a powder, and having topped the prescribed volume of boiled water at room temperature, it is converted into a suspension. There are no adverse reactions from the medication, but in very rare cases, an allergy in the form of skin rashes can develop.
When complications arise, antibiotics for ARVI are necessary, as Komarovsky says. Such diseases usually become: cystitis, sinusitis, otitis media, tonsillitis. The child is prescribed another medicine, his name is Zinatsef. The preparation is made in the form of a solution for injections. The dose is determined depending on the weight of the baby and his age.
Another good medicine for the flu is Sumamed Forte. The drug is characterized by a wide range of actions, helps to recover in a short time. Do not use the product for children if they are younger than the age of 6 months.
You can buy Sumamed Forte in powder, which is diluted with water. Drink a remedy once a day, you can say. that this is a specific prevention of influenza.
About what antibiotics are needed to treat ARVI in the video in this article.
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