Human leukocyte dry interferon is a group of proteins synthesized by leukocytes of donor blood in response to the influence of an interferon inducer virus. Antibodies to the HIV-1 virus, HIV-2 virus, hepatitis C virus and hepatitis B virus surface antigen are absent.
Active ingredient: interferon alpha
Activity: not less than 1000 ME per ampoule.
Auxiliary components:
Sodium chloride - 0.09 mg;
Sodium dihydrogen phosphate dihydrate - 0.06 mg;
Sodium hydrogen phosphate dodecahydrate - 0.003 mg;
Sucrose - 0.03 mg.
Description:A porous amorphous mass or powder of white or light yellow to bright red color. Hygroscopic.
The reconstituted drug is a clear liquid from light yellow to bright red.
Pharmacotherapeutic group: MIBP - cytokine ATX:L.03.A.B.01 Interferon alpha
Pharmacodynamics:Interferon alpha has the following effects:
Antiviral (flu, herpes, adenoviral infections, etc.);
Antibacterial (bacteriostatic) against mixed infections;
Immunomodulatory (normalizes immune status);
Immunostimulating (strengthens the immune response);
Anti-inflammatory.
Interferon alpha from normal human leukocytes has an indirect antiviral effect, which consists of creating protective mechanisms in cells not infected with the virus: changing the properties of cell membranes that prevent the virus from penetrating into the cell; initiation of the synthesis of a number of Specific enzymes that prevent the replication of viral RNA and the synthesis of viral proteins.
Pharmacokinetics:The basic properties of interferon alpha are used for therapeutic purposes. inhibits the replication and transcription of viruses and chlamydia. It has an antiviral effect, inducing a state of resistance to viral infections in cells and modulating the response of the immune system aimed at neutralizing viruses or destroying cells infected by them. The mechanism of antiviral action is to create protective mechanisms in cells not infected with the virus. By binding to specific receptors on the cell surface, it changes the properties of the cell membrane, prevents adhesion and penetration of the virus into the cell, stimulates specific enzymes, affects RNA and inhibits the synthesis of viral proteins. Suppresses viral replication in an infected cell. The listed properties of interferon alpha allow it to effectively participate in the processes of pathogen elimination, prevention of infection and possible complications. Thanks to the immunomodulatory activity of interferon alpha, the immune status is normalized. The immunomodulatory effect is due to stimulation of the activity of macrophages (phagocytic activity) and natural killer cells (NK cells). Stimulates the process of antigen presentation by macrophages to immunocompetent cells. Under the influence of interferon alpha in the body, the activity of T-helper cells, cytotoxic T-lymphocytes, the expression of MHC type I and II antigens, as well as the intensity of differentiation of B-lymphocytes increases. Activation of leukocytes ensures their active participation in the elimination of primary pathological foci and ensures the restoration of secretory immunoglobulin A production.
Indications: Prevention and treatment of influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections. Contraindications:Use with caution in persons with hypersensitivity to antibiotics and hypersensitivity to drugs of protein origin, including chicken meat and chicken eggs. With caution:Persons with a history of allergic diseases.
The drug can be used by children and adults with chronic diseases.
Pregnancy and lactation:During pregnancy and lactation, Interferon is prescribed only if the expected effect for the mother exceeds the risk for the fetus. Directions for use and dosage:Open the ampoule with the drug immediately before using it and add sterile distilled or cooled boiled water in a volume of 2.0 ml, that is, up to the color line marked on the ampoule. Dissolution time should not exceed 3 minutes. The dissolved drug should be a clear liquid ranging from light yellow to bright red.
The drug solution can be stored at temperatures from 2 °C to 8 °C for no more than one day.
For prevention and treatment, the same dosage regimen is used for children and adults. There is no age limit for children.
Use for prevention:
For the purpose of prevention, administration of the drug should begin when there is an immediate threat of infection and continue as long as the risk of infection remains. To prevent influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections, use the dissolved drug intranasally.
Spraying the drug solution can be done using sprayers of any system. 0.25 ml of solution should be administered into each nasal passage 2 times a day, with an interval of at least 6 hours.
When instilling the drug solution, administer 5 drops (0.25 ml) into each nasal passage 2 times a day with an interval of at least 6 hours.
Use in treatment:
For treatment purposes, the drug should be used at an early stage of the disease when the first clinical symptoms appear.
When treating the drug, use it inhalation and intranasally. The most effective way is inhalation. To carry it out, inhalers equipped with electrical heating or another system are recommended. For one administration, use the contents of 3 ampoules of the drug, which are dissolved in 10 ml of sterile distilled or boiled water. Heat the solution to a temperature not higher than 37 °C. The drug is administered by inhalation 2 times a day with an interval of at least 6 hours.
Spraying the drug solution can be done using sprayers of any system. 0.25 ml of solution should be injected into each nasal passage after 1-2 hours, at least 5 times a day for 2-3 days.
When instilling the drug solution, administer 5 drops (0.25 ml) into each nasal passage after 1-2 hours, at least 5 times a day for 2-3 days.
Precautions for use:
Administration by injection is strictly prohibited.
The drug is unsuitable for use if:
- the seal of the packaging is broken;
- markings are missing or difficult to read;
- expiration date has expired.
Side effects:There were no registered side effects. With long-term use, sensitization was not detected. Allergic reactions (urticaria, polymorphic rash) may develop in people who have hypersensitivity to antibiotics and hypersensitivity to drugs of protein origin, including chicken meat and chicken eggs. Overdose: No cases of overdose have been identified. Interaction:In experiments in tissue culture conducted in the antibiotic laboratory, it was found that when methyluracil is used together with human leukocyte interferon dry, a pronounced synergistic effect is observed. A pronounced synergistic effect is observed when human leukocyte interferon is combined with lysozyme.
In this article we will talk about one of the effective antiviral and immunostimulating drugs. We will talk about human leukocyte interferon. We will analyze the properties of the drug, indications for its use, instructions for use, etc.
Characteristics of the drug
Leukocyte human interferon (international name - interferon alpha) is available in two forms - a solution for inhalation and intranasal use and a dry lyophilized powder (sometimes compressed into tablets). The liquid form ranges from colorless to light pink, the dry form ranges from white to pinkish.
Human leukocyte interferon (Interferon leukocytic human) is a complex of proteins that are synthesized by leukocytes of donor blood under the influence of an interferon inducer virus. They undergo purification using ultra- and microfiltration methods.
Analogues of this immunomodulatory drug:
- "Lokferon".
- "Inferon"
- "Nazoferon" and others.
The product can be used in combination with other medications. The drug is available without a doctor's prescription and is valid for 2 years from the date of manufacture. It must be stored in a cool (2-8 degrees above zero) place, protected from light. Keep away from children!
Average prices for human leukocyte interferon are relatively low. So, in most pharmacies a pack of 10 ampoules of the drug will cost 80-120 rubles.
Composition of the drug
1 ml of liquid human leukocyte interferon contains:
- Interferon alpha - 1000 IU.
- Sodium chloride - 0.09 mg.
- Sodium dihydrogen phosphate dihydrate - 0.06 mg.
- Sodium hydrogen phosphate dodecahydrate - 0.003 mg.
- Distilled water for injection - about 1 ml.
Pharmacological properties
This immunomodulatory drug belongs to the pharmacological group of cytokines. Its properties are as follows:
- Immunostimulation - makes the immune response stronger.
- Immunomodulation - normalizes immune status.
- Antibacterial effect - fight against various types of mixed infections.
- Antiviral effect - helps the body resist diseases such as herpes, influenza, adenoviral diseases.
- Anti-inflammatory, antitumor effect.
The dry and liquid product is non-toxic, sterile, and harmless when administered through the respiratory tract. In this case, it is prohibited to use powder for injection.
Indications for use
Human leukocyte interferon is used both for the prevention of acute viral infections and for the treatment of early forms of diseases with initial symptoms.
Indications can be divided into three main groups:
- Intranasal use: preventive measures and treatment of ARVI, influenza.
- Parenteral use: genital warts, hepatitis B and C, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, malignant melanoma, multiple myeloma, renal carcinoma, Kaposi's sarcoma in people suffering from AIDS (not suffering from acute infections at this time), hairy cell leukemia, mycosis fungoides.
- Rectal use: therapy of chronic and acute viral hepatitis.
The drug will also be effective for:
- chronic myeloid leukemia;
- primary and secondary thrombocytosis;
- transitional stage of chronic granulocytic leukemia, myelofibrosis;
- reticulosarcoma;
- multiple sclerosis.
Contraindications
Instructions for use of human leukocyte interferon indicate the following contraindications to the use of the drug:
- Epilepsy.
- Dysfunction of the central nervous system.
- Impaired functions of the kidneys, liver, and hematopoietic system.
- Organic heart diseases.
- Chronic hepatitis in persons whose recent treatment consisted of immunosuppressive drugs.
- Thyroid diseases.
- Chronic hepatitis.
- Cirrhosis of the liver with signs of liver failure.
- Pregnancy and lactation period.
- Allergy.
- Increased individual sensitivity to the active component - interferon alpha, as well as to all drugs of protein origin, to chicken meat and eggs.
The drug is dangerous to take in the following cases:
- The expiration date has expired.
- The integrity of the packaging has been compromised.
- There is no marking on the container.
Dosage and Application
Instructions for use of human leukocyte interferon prescribe:
- For children under 3 years of age, administer the drug only intranasally (spraying, instillation).
- Children over 3 years of age and adults are additionally allowed inhalation.
Intranasal use. The ampoule with the medicine is opened immediately before use. Then cooled boiled or sterile distilled water is added to it strictly to the 2 ml line on the capsule. The product is gently shaken until completely dissolved.
The drug is instilled into the nose using a syringe without a needle or a medical pipette. Another method is spraying: you can use either a third-party sprayer or the one that comes with the drug. The nozzle is put on the syringe without a needle, then brought close to the nasal passage or entering it about 0.5 cm. Spraying occurs by pressing the syringe plunger. The patient should sit with his head tilted up.
Drug dosage:
- Prevention: applied throughout the danger of infection. Instillation - 5 drops, spraying - 0.25 ml into each nasal passage. The manipulation is carried out up to 2 times per day with an interval of at least 6 hours.
- Treatment: when the first signs of the disease appear. 5 drops or 0.25 mg in each nostril. The procedure is repeated up to 5 times a day with an interval of 1-2 hours.
Human leukocyte interferon is administered to children and adults in equal doses.
Inhalation. Inhalation use is considered more effective. For this you need to purchase an inhaler from any manufacturer. One procedure requires the contents of three capsules, which should be dissolved in 10 ml of water heated to 37 degrees. In this way, the drug is administered through the mouth and nose twice a day for 2-3 days.
It is prohibited to inject the product!
Side effects
When using this immunomodulatory drug, the following side effects are possible:
- From the gastrointestinal tract: changes in taste, dry mouth, flatulence, constipation, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, loss of appetite. In rare cases - liver dysfunction.
- From the central nervous system: ataxia, drowsiness or sleep disturbance, impaired consciousness, depression, nervousness.
- From the heart and blood vessels: arrhythmia, arterial hypotension.
- Dermatological consequences: skin rash, slight alopecia, erythema, dry skin.
- Flu-like syndrome: weakness, fever, myalgia, headache.
- Other: granulocytopenia, feeling of weakness, lethargy, weight loss, visual disturbances, dizziness.
Special instructions
The product should be used with caution when:
- Recently suffered myocardial infarction.
- Myelodepression, changes in blood clotting.
- Elderly patients who have been diagnosed with side effects from the central nervous system when using high doses of the drug. It may even be worth interrupting treatment.
- Patients with hepatitis C should be tested for TSH levels in the blood before treatment. Only if the indicators are normal can interferon therapy be started. In other cases, thyroid function may be impaired.
- Combination with opioid analgesics, hypnotics, sedatives.
Human leukocyte interferon is an effective immunostimulating anti-infective agent. It has a number of application features and contraindications, so before use it is necessary to read the instructions.
Composition and release form of the drug
Lyophilisate for the preparation of solution for intranasal administration and inhalations.
1000 IU - ampoules (10) - cardboard packs.
1000 IU - ampoules (5) - cardboard packs.
1000 IU - ampoules (10) - contour blister packs (1) - cardboard packs.
1000 IU - ampoules (10) - general cardboard packs.
1000 IU - ampoules (5) - general cardboard packs.
Pharmacological action
Interferon alpha is a mixture of different subtypes of natural alpha interferon from human blood leukocytes. It has an immunostimulating and antiproliferative effect. The antiviral effect of the drug is based mainly on increasing the resistance of body cells that have not yet been infected with the virus to possible effects. By binding to specific receptors on the cell surface, interferon alpha changes the properties of the cell membrane, stimulates specific enzymes, affects the RNA of the virus and prevents its replication. The immunomodulatory effect of interferon alpha is associated with stimulation of the activity of macrophages and NK (Natural killer) cells, which, in turn, participate in the body’s immune response to tumor cells.
Indications
For parenteral use: hepatitis B and C, genital warts, hairy cell leukemia, multiple myeloma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, mycosis fungoides, Kaposi's sarcoma in patients with AIDS who do not have a history of acute infections; renal carcinoma; malignant melanoma.
For rectal use: treatment of acute and chronic viral hepatitis.
For intranasal use: prevention and treatment of influenza, ARVI.
Contraindications
Severe organic heart disease, severe dysfunction of the liver or kidneys; epilepsy and/or dysfunction of the central nervous system; chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver with symptoms of liver failure; chronic hepatitis in patients receiving or recently receiving treatment (except for treatment with corticosteroids); autoimmune hepatitis; thyroid diseases resistant to traditional therapy; confirmed hypersensitivity to interferon alpha.
Dosage
The dose, frequency and duration of use are determined depending on the indications, severity of the disease, route of administration, and individual patient response.
Side effects
When used parenterally, side effects are observed much more often than with other routes of administration.
Flu-like symptoms: fever, myalgia, weakness.
From the digestive system: loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea; rarely - liver dysfunction.
From the cardiovascular system: arterial hypotension, arrhythmia.
From the side of the central nervous system: drowsiness, impaired consciousness, ataxia.
Dermatological reactions: rarely - slight alopecia, dry skin, erythema,.
Others: general weakness, granulocytopenia.
Drug interactions
Since interferons inhibit oxidative metabolism in the liver, the biotransformation of drugs metabolized by this route may be impaired.
When used simultaneously with ACE inhibitors, synergism with respect to hematotoxicity is possible; c - synergism regarding myelotoxic action; with paracetamol - it is possible to increase the activity of liver enzymes; with theophylline - decreased clearance of theophylline.
Special instructions
Use with caution in patients with a history of a recent myocardial infarction, as well as in cases of changes in blood clotting and myelodepression.
For thrombocytopenia with a platelet count of less than 50,000/μl, s.c. should be used.
Patients should receive hydration therapy, especially during the initial period of treatment.
In patients with hepatitis C receiving interferon alfa therapy for systemic use, thyroid dysfunction, expressed in hypo- or hyperthyroidism, is possible. Therefore, before starting a course of treatment, the level of TSH in the blood serum should be determined and treatment should be started only if the TSH level in the blood is normal.
Use interferon alfa with caution simultaneously with hypnotics, sedatives, opioids
Contraindicated in cases of severe liver dysfunction, chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver with symptoms of liver failure; chronic hepatitis in patients receiving or recently receiving treatment with immunosuppressants (except for treatment with corticosteroids); autoimmune hepatitis.
Use in old age
If CNS side effects develop in elderly patients receiving high doses of interferon alfa, careful evaluation should be performed and treatment should be interrupted if necessary.
Release form
Compound
Active ingredient: Interferon alfa Concentration of active ingredient (units): 1000
Pharmacological effect
Interferon alpha is a mixture of different subtypes of natural alpha interferon from human blood leukocytes. It has antiviral, immunostimulating and antiproliferative effects. The antiviral effect of the drug is based mainly on increasing the resistance of body cells that have not yet been infected with the virus to possible effects. By binding to specific receptors on the cell surface, interferon alpha changes the properties of the cell membrane, stimulates specific enzymes, affects the RNA of the virus and prevents its replication. The immunomodulatory effect of interferon alpha is associated with stimulation of the activity of macrophages and NK (Natural killer) cells, which, in turn, participate in the body’s immune response to tumor cells.
Indications
Prevention and treatment of influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to drugs of protein origin
Precautions
Use with caution in patients with a history of a recent myocardial infarction, as well as in cases of changes in blood clotting and myelodepression. Use interferon alpha with caution simultaneously with hypnotics, sedatives, and opioid analgesics.
Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding
The use of interferon alpha drugs during pregnancy is possible only in cases where the expected benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. If it is necessary to use it in a nursing mother during lactation, the issue of stopping breastfeeding should be decided. Patients of reproductive age should use reliable methods of contraception during therapy.
Directions for use and doses
For children from the neonatal period (from birth), the drug is administered intranasally (by spraying or instillation). For children over 3 years of age and adults – additionally in the form of inhalation. Intranasal The ampoule with the drug is opened immediately before use. Sterile distilled or boiled water cooled to room temperature is added to the ampoule up to the line indicated on the ampoule, corresponding to 2 ml, and gently shaken until the contents are completely dissolved. The dissolved drug is a clear or slightly opalescent liquid, colorless or light yellow to pink. The drug is used by instillation (using a medical pipette or syringe without a needle) or spraying. Spraying is carried out using sprayers of any system or using the supplied spray nozzle. For prophylaxis, administration of the drug should begin when there is an immediate threat of infection and continue as long as the risk of infection remains. The drug is used intranasally by instilling 5 drops or spraying 0.25 ml into each nasal passage 2 times a day with an interval of at least 6 hours. For treatment, the drug is used at an early stage of the disease when the first clinical symptoms appear, 0.25 ml (5 drops) intranasally into each nasal passage after 1-2 hours at least 5 times a day. The earlier its use is started, the higher the effectiveness of the drug. Rules for using the spray nozzle: Place the needle on the syringe, fill it with the dissolved drug in a volume of 0.25 ml (mark 10 on a scale of 40 units or mark 25 on a scale of 100 units). Remove the needle and tightly put on the spray nozzle. Bring it close a spray nozzle to the nasal passage and by sharply pressing the syringe piston, inject the drug into the nasal passage. Remove the spray nozzle, put on the needle and draw 0.25 ml of the drug from the ampoule into the syringe. Remove the needle, put the spray nozzle back tightly and inject the drug into another nasal passage in accordance with point 3. The spray nozzle is inserted to a depth of 0.5 cm into the nasal passages, previously cleared of mucus. The patient should be in a sitting position with his head slightly thrown back and remain in this position for 1 minute after administration of the drug. One attachment may only be used on one patient. Inhalation The most effective method for treatment is inhalation. For this purpose, inhalers of any type are recommended. For one procedure, use the contents of 3 ampoules, which are dissolved in 10 ml of water. It is recommended to heat the water to a temperature no higher than 37 °C. By inhalation, the drug is administered through the mouth and nose 2 times a day for 2-3 days. Administration of the drug by injection is strictly prohibited!
Side effects
Allergic reactions.
Interaction with other drugs
Since interferons inhibit oxidative metabolism in the liver, the biotransformation of drugs metabolized in this way may be disrupted. When used simultaneously with ACE inhibitors, synergism with respect to hematotoxic action is possible; with zidovudine - synergism regarding myelotoxic action; with paracetamol - it is possible to increase the activity of liver enzymes; with theophylline - decreased clearance of theophylline.
Special instructions
For thrombocytopenia with a platelet count of less than 50,000/μL, SC should be used. If side effects from the central nervous system develop in elderly patients receiving interferon alfa in high doses, a careful evaluation should be carried out and, if necessary, treatment should be interrupted. Patients should be hydrated therapy, especially in the initial period of treatment. In patients with hepatitis C receiving interferon alpha therapy for systemic use, thyroid dysfunction, expressed in hypo- or hyperthyroidism, is possible. Therefore, before starting a course of treatment, the level of TSH in the blood serum should be determined and treatment should be started only if the TSH level in the blood is normal.
The composition of interferon preparations depends on their release form.
Release form
Interferon preparations have the following release forms:
- lyophilized powder for the preparation of eye and nasal drops, injection solution;
- injection solution;
- eye drops;
- eye films;
- nasal drops and spray;
- ointment;
- dermatological gel;
- liposomes;
- aerosol;
- oral solution;
- rectal suppositories;
- vaginal suppositories;
- implants;
- microenemas;
- tablets (interferon tablets are available under the brand name Entalferon).
Pharmacological action
IFN drugs belong to the group of drugs with antiviral and immunomodulatory effects.
All IFNs have antiviral and antitumor effects. No less important is their property of stimulating action. macrophages - cells that play an important role in initiation.
IFNs contribute to increasing the body's resistance to penetration viruses , and also block reproduction viruses when they penetrate the cell. The latter is due to the ability of IFN to suppress translation of the messenger RNA of the virus .
However, the antiviral effect of IFN is not directed against certain viruses , that is, IFNs are not characterized by virus specificity. This is precisely what explains their versatility and wide range of antiviral activity.
Interferon - what is it?
Interferons are a class with similar properties glycoproteins , which are produced by vertebrate cells in response to the influence of various kinds of inducers, both viral and non-viral in nature.
According to Wikipedia, in order for a biologically active substance to be qualified as interferon, it must be of a protein nature and have a pronounced antiviral activity in relation to various viruses , at a minimum, in homologous (similar) cells, “mediated by cellular metabolic processes including RNA and protein synthesis.”
The classification of IFNs proposed by the WHO and the Interferon Committee is based on differences in their antigenic, physical, chemical and biological properties. In addition, it takes into account their species and cellular origin.
Based on antigenicity (antigen specificity), IFNs are usually divided into acid-stable and acid-labile. The acid-fast ones include alpha and beta interferons (they are also called type I IFN). Interferon gamma (γ-IFN) is acid labile.
α-IFN is produced peripheral blood leukocytes (B- and T-type leukocytes), therefore it was previously designated as leukocyte interferon . There are currently at least 14 varieties of it.
β-IFN is produced fibroblasts , which is why it is also called fibroblastic .
The former designation of γ-IFN is immune interferon , it is produced by stimulated T-type lymphocytes , NK cells (normal (natural) killers; from English “natural killer”) and (presumably) macrophages .
Basic properties and mechanism of action of IFN
Without exception, all IFNs are characterized by polyfunctional activity against target cells. Their most common property is the ability to induce in them antiviral state .
Interferon is used as a therapeutic and prophylactic agent for various viral infections . A feature of IFN drugs is that their effect weakens with repeated injections.
The mechanism of action of IFN is related to its ability to inhibit viral infections . As a result of treatment with interferon drugs in the patient’s body around source of infection a kind of barrier is formed from resistant to virus uninfected cells, which prevents further spread of infection.
By interacting with still undamaged (intact) cells, it prevents the implementation of the reproductive cycle viruses due to the activation of certain cellular enzymes ( protein kinases ).
The most important functions of interferons are the ability to suppress hematopoiesis ; modulate the body's immune response and inflammation response; regulate the processes of cell proliferation and differentiation; suppress growth and prevent reproduction viral cells ; stimulate the expression of surface antigens ; suppress individual functions B- and T-type leukocytes , stimulate activity NK cells etc..
Use of IFN in biotechnology
Development of synthesis methods and highly efficient purification leukocyte and recombinant interferons in quantities sufficient for the production of drugs, made it possible to open up the possibility of using IFN drugs to treat patients diagnosed with viral hepatitis .
A distinctive feature of recombinant IFNs is that they are produced outside the human body.
So, for example, recombinant interferon beta-1a (IFN beta-1a) are obtained from mammalian cells (in particular, from Chinese hamster ovary cells), and similar in properties interferon beta-1b (IFN β-1b) produced by a member of the Enterobacteriaceae family coli (Escherichia coli).
Interferon inducer drugs - what are they?
IFN inducers are drugs that do not themselves contain interferon, but at the same time stimulate its production.
Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics
The main biological effect of α-IFN is inhibition of viral protein synthesis . The antiviral state of the cell develops within several hours after administration of the drug or induction of IFN production in the body.
However, IFN has no effect on the early stages replicative cycle that is, at the stage of adsorption, penetration virus into the cell (penetration) and release of the internal component virus in the process of “undressing” him.
Antivirus action α-IFN appears even when cells are infected infectious RNAs . IFN does not penetrate the cell, but only interacts with specific receptors on cell membranes (gangliosides or similar structures containing oligosugars ).
The mechanism of IFN alpha activity resembles the action of certain glycopeptide hormones . It stimulates activity genes , some of which are involved in coding the formation of products with direct antiviral effect .
β interferons also have antiviral effect , which is associated with several mechanisms of action. Beta interferon activates NO synthetase, which in turn helps to increase the concentration of nitric oxide inside the cell. The latter plays a key role in suppressing reproduction viruses .
β-IFN activates secondary, effector functions natural killersV , B-type lymphocytes , blood monocytes , tissue macrophages (mononuclear phagocytes) and neutrophilic , which are characterized by antibody-dependent and antibody-independent cytotoxicity.
In addition, β-IFN blocks the release of the internal component virus and disrupts methylation processes RNA virus .
γ-IFN is involved in the regulation of the immune response and regulates the expression inflammatory reactions. Despite the fact that he has independent antivirus And antitumor effect , gamma interferon very weak. At the same time, it significantly enhances the activity of α- and β-IFN.
After parenteral administration, the maximum concentration of IFN is observed after 3-12 hours. The bioavailability indicator is 100% (both after injection under the skin and after injection into the muscle).
The half-life T½ ranges from 2 to 7 hours. Trace concentrations of IFN in blood plasma are not detectable after 16–24 hours.
Indications for use
IFN is intended to treat viral diseases , striking respiratory tract .
In addition, interferon preparations are prescribed to patients with chronic forms of hepatitis, and Delta .
For treatment viral diseases and, in particular, IFN-α is used predominantly (both its forms, IFN-alpha 2b and IFN-alpha 2a). The “gold standard” of treatment hepatitis C pegylated interferons alpha-2b and alpha-2a are considered to be. In comparison, conventional interferons are less effective.
Genetic polymorphisms observed in the IL28B gene, which is responsible for encoding IFN lambda-3, cause significant differences in the effect of treatment.
Patients with genotype 1 hepatitis C with common alleles of the specified gene are more likely to achieve longer and more pronounced treatment results compared to other patients.
IFN is also often prescribed to patients with oncological diseases : malignant , pancreatic endocrine tumors , non-Hodgkin's lymphoma , carcinoid tumors ; Kaposi's sarcoma , conditioned; hairy cell leukemia ,multiple myeloma , kidney cancer etc..
Contraindications
Interferon is not prescribed to patients with hypersensitivity to it, as well as to children and adolescents suffering from severe mental disorders And nervous system disorders , which are accompanied by thoughts of suicide and suicide attempts, severe and protracted.
In combination with antiviral drug Ribavirin IFN is contraindicated in patients diagnosed with severe impairment kidney (conditions in which CC is less than 50 ml/min).
Interferon preparations are contraindicated in (in cases where appropriate therapy does not produce the expected clinical effect).
Side effects
Interferon belongs to the category of drugs that can cause a large number of adverse reactions from various systems and organs. In most cases, they are a consequence of the administration of interferon intravenously, subcutaneously or intramuscularly, but they can also be provoked by other pharmaceutical forms of the drug.
The most common adverse reactions to taking IFN are:
- anorexia;
- nausea;
- chills;
- trembling in the body.
Somewhat less common are vomiting, increased blood pressure, a feeling of dry mouth, hair loss (), asthenia ; nonspecific symptoms reminiscent of flu symptoms ; back pain, depressive states , musculoskeletal pain , thoughts of suicide and attempted suicide, general malaise, impaired taste and concentration, increased irritability, sleep disorders (often), arterial hypotension , confusion.
Rare side effects include: pain on the right side of the upper abdomen, rashes on the body (erythematous and maculopapular), increased nervousness, soreness and severe inflammation at the injection site of the drug, secondary viral infection (including infection herpes simplex virus ), increased dryness of the skin, , pain in the eyes , conjunctivitis , blurred vision, dysfunction lacrimal glands , anxiety, mood lability; psychotic disorders , including increased aggression, etc.; hyperthermia , dyspeptic symptoms , respiratory disorders, weight loss, unformed stools, hyper- or hypothyroidism , hearing impairment (up to its complete loss), the formation of infiltrates in the lungs, increased appetite, bleeding gums, in the extremities, dyspnea , renal dysfunction and development of renal failure , peripheral ischemia , hyperuricemia , neuropathy etc..
Treatment with IFN drugs may cause reproductive dysfunction . Studies in primates have shown that interferon disrupts the menstrual cycle in women . In addition, in women undergoing treatment with IFN-α drugs, the level of .
For this reason, if interferon is prescribed to women of childbearing age, use barrier contraception . Men of reproductive age are also advised to be informed of potential side effects.
In rare cases, treatment with interferon may be accompanied by ophthalmological disorders, which are expressed as hemorrhages in the retina of the eye , retinopathy (including but not limited to macular edema ), focal changes in the retina, decreased visual acuity and/or limited visual fields, papilledema , neuritis of the optic (second cranial) nerve , arterial obstruction or retinal veins .
Sometimes, while taking interferon, they can develop hyperglycemia , symptoms of nephrotic syndrome , . In patients with diabetes mellitus the clinical picture of the disease may worsen.
The possibility of occurrence cannot be excluded cerebrovascular hemorrhage , erythema multiforme , tissue necrosis at the injection site, cardiac and cerebrovascular ischemia , hypertriglyceridermia , sarcoidosis (or aggravation of its course), Lyell's syndromes And Stevens-Johnson .
The use of interferon in monotherapy or in combination with Ribavirin in isolated cases it can provoke aplastic anemia (AA) or even PAKKM ( complete red bone marrow aplasia ).
There have also been cases where, during treatment with interferon drugs, a patient developed various autoimmune And immune-mediated disorders (including Werlhof's disease And Moschkowitz disease ).
Interferon, instructions for use (Method and dosage)
The instructions for the use of interferons alpha, beta and gamma indicate that before prescribing the drug to the patient, it is recommended to determine how sensitive the patient is to it , which caused the disease.
The method of administration of human leukocyte interferon is determined depending on the diagnosis given to the patient. In most cases, it is prescribed as a subcutaneous injection, but in some cases the drug can be injected into a muscle or vein.
The treatment dose, maintenance dose and duration of treatment are determined depending on the clinical situation and the patient’s response to the therapy prescribed to him.
By “children’s” interferon we mean a drug in the form of suppositories, drops and ointments.
Instructions for the use of interferon for children recommend using this drug both as a therapeutic and as a prophylactic agent. The dose for infants and older children is selected by the attending physician.
For preventive purposes, INF is used in the form of a solution, for the preparation of which distilled or boiled water at room temperature is used. The finished solution is colored red and opalescent. It should be stored refrigerated for no more than 24-48 hours. The drug is instilled into the nose of children and adults.
At viral ophthalmological diseases the drug is prescribed in the form of eye drops.
As soon as the severity of the symptoms of the disease decreases, the volume of instillations should be reduced to one drop. The course of treatment is from 7 to 10 days.
For the treatment of lesions caused by herpes viruses , the ointment is applied in a thin layer to the affected areas of the skin and mucous membranes twice a day, maintaining 12-hour intervals. The course of treatment is from 3 to 5 days (until the integrity of the damaged skin and mucous membranes is completely restored).
For prevention acute respiratory infections and needs to be lubricated with ointment nasal passages . The frequency of procedures during the 1st and 3rd weeks of the course is 2 times a day. It is recommended to take a break during the 2nd week. For preventive purposes, interferon should be used throughout the entire period epidemics of respiratory diseases .
The duration of the rehabilitation course in children who often experience recurrent viral-bacterial infections of the respiratory tract , ENT organs , recurrent infection , caused herpes simplex virus , is two months.
How to dilute and how to use interferon in ampoules?
The instructions for using interferon in ampoules indicate that before use, the ampoule must be opened, water (distilled or boiled) at room temperature must be poured into it up to the mark on the ampoule corresponding to 2 ml.
The contents are gently shaken until completely dissolved. The solution is injected into each nasal passage twice a day, five drops, maintaining intervals of at least six hours between administrations.
For therapeutic purposes, IFN begins to be taken when the first symptoms appear. flu symptoms . The earlier the patient starts taking it, the higher the effectiveness of the drug.
The inhalation method (through the nose or mouth) is considered the most effective. For one inhalation, it is recommended to take the contents of three ampoules of the drug, dissolved in 10 ml of water.
The water is preheated to a temperature of no more than +37 °C. Inhalation procedures are carried out twice a day, maintaining an interval of at least one to two hours between them.
When sprayed or instilled, the contents of the ampoule are dissolved in two milliliters of water and 0.25 ml (or five drops) is administered into each nasal passage three to six times a day. The duration of treatment is 2-3 days.
For preventive purposes, nasal drops for children are instilled (5 drops) twice a day; at the initial stage of the disease, the frequency of instillations is increased: the drug should be administered at least five to six times a day every hour or two.
Many people are interested in whether interferon solution can be dripped into the eyes. The answer to this question is yes.
Overdose
Cases of interferon overdose have not been described.
Interaction
β-IFN is compatible with corticosteroid drugs and ACTH. It should not be taken during treatment myelosuppressive drugs , incl. cytostatics (this may cause additive effect ).
Beta-IFN should be administered with caution with agents whose clearance is largely dependent on cytochrome P450 system (antiepileptic drugs , some antidepressants etc.).
You should not take α-IFN and Telbivudin . The simultaneous use of α-IFN provokes a mutual enhancement of action in relation to. When used together with phosphazide can mutually increase myelotoxicity both drugs (it is recommended to carefully monitor changes in the amount granulocytes And;
IFN is also used in therapy, the purpose of which is the rehabilitation of frequently ill people. respiratory infections children.
The most optimal option for children is nasal drops: when used in this way, interferon does not penetrate the gastrointestinal tract (before diluting the drug for the nose, the water should be heated to a temperature of 37°C).
For infants, interferon is prescribed in the form of suppositories (150 thousand IU). Suppositories for children should be administered one at a time 2 times a day, maintaining 12-hour intervals between administrations. The course of treatment is 5 days. To completely cure a child ARVI As a rule, one course is enough.
For treatment, you should take 0.5 g of ointment twice a day. Treatment lasts on average 2 weeks. Over the next 2-4 weeks, the ointment is used 3 times a week.
Numerous positive reviews about the drug indicate that in this dosage form it has also established itself as an effective treatment for stomatitis And inflamed tonsils . Interferon inhalations for children are no less effective.
The effect of using the drug increases significantly if a nebulizer is used to administer it (it is necessary to use a device that sprays particles with a diameter of more than 5 microns). Inhalations through a nebulizer have their own specifics.
First, interferon must be inhaled through the nose. Secondly, before using the device, you must turn off the heating function (IFN is a protein; at temperatures above 37°C it is destroyed).
For inhalation in a nebulizer, the contents of one ampoule are diluted in 2-3 ml of distilled or mineral water (saline solution can also be used for these purposes). The resulting volume is enough for one procedure. The frequency of procedures during the day is from 2 to 4.
It is important to remember that long-term treatment of children with interferon is not recommended, since addiction develops to it and, therefore, the expected effect does not develop.
Interferon during pregnancy
An exception may be cases when the expected benefit of therapy for the expectant mother exceeds the risk of adverse reactions and harmful effects on the development of the fetus.
The possibility of isolating recombinant IFN components in breast milk cannot be ruled out. Due to the possibility of exposure to the fetus through milk, IFN is not prescribed to nursing women.
As a last resort, when the administration of IFN cannot be avoided, the woman is advised not to breastfeed during therapy. To mitigate the side effects of the drug (the occurrence of flu-like symptoms), simultaneous administration with IFN is recommended. .
