Human leukocyte interferon liquid: instructions for use. Storage conditions and shelf life. Contraindications for use
Currently, pharmacology offers doctors and their patients a huge selection of medicines. Among them, the most popular are painkillers and antipyretics. Also in recent years, doctors often prescribe immunomodulatory compounds. "Human leukocyte interferon" is one of the subspecies of such drugs. It is about him that will be discussed in this article. You will learn how "Human Leukocyte Interferon" (dry) is used. Also find out the cost of this tool.
The drug "Human leukocyte interferon": description and composition
This tool is immunomodulatory and immunostimulating. In addition, the drug has antitumor activity. The composition of the drug includes This is the so-called group of proteins that are produced by the donor's blood leukocytes. It is this substance that allows the body to fight many pathologies.
Indications: in what cases is the medicine used?
Who needs the drug "Human leukocyte interferon"? The remedy is prescribed to people of different sexes and ages with the following pathologies:
- malignant and benign tumors in the body;
- viral diseases;
- respiratory infections;
- bacterial pathologies of different departments and organs;
- liver and kidney disease (including hepatitis);
- state of immunodeficiency;
- diseases of the eyes and mucous membranes;
- fungal infections;
- as a prevention of various diseases.
In addition, the drug "Human leukocyte interferon" is used in complex therapy. In this case, the indications may not be described in the instructions. In this case, recommendations are given by a specialist individually to each patient.
Contraindications: when should you stop using the medicine?
Can everyone use Human Leukocyte Interferon? The instruction indicates the following contraindications:
- increased sensitivity and the possibility of developing an allergic reaction to interferon;
- exacerbation of pathologies of the liver and kidneys;
- severe heart and vascular disease;
- epilepsy and disorders of the nervous system;
- the period of pregnancy and subsequent breastfeeding (in some cases).
How does the drug affect the patient's body?
Means "Interferon human leukocyte" (liquid) begins its action immediately after entering the human body. The drug increases immune defense, affects the pathological cells of viruses and bacteria. In some cases, interferon alpha human contributes to a slight increase in body temperature. This is a completely normal reaction. Some pathological microorganisms die only when the thermometer crosses the mark of 37 degrees.
Depending on the form of the drug and its dosage, the effect of treatment may occur at different times. So, to speed up the action, it is recommended to use liquid types of medication.
"Human leukocyte interferon" (dry): instructions for use, dosage
How is the medicine used? Before using the drug, it must be prepared. To do this is quite simple. You won't need any special equipment. Be sure to read the instructions before use. The agent can be used intramuscularly, intravenously. Often, doctors recommend inhalation with a prepared solution. The medicine "Interferon human leukocyte" for children is used by the intranasal method.
For the treatment of colds, viral and bacterial infections of the respiratory tract
The medicine is dissolved in two milliliters of pure water and injected into each nasal passage. On the first day of use, the recommended dose is one to three drops per nostril every two hours. On the following day, the solution is administered in a similar way, however, the intake is divided into three to five doses.
For the correction of eye diseases
The drug is diluted in one milliliter of water and instilled into the lower one up to 10 times a day. Treatment can last from two days to several weeks, respectively.
In malignant and benign tumors, immunodeficiency states
The medicine is administered intramuscularly or intravenously. For intramuscular injection, it is diluted with water for injection. The composition is injected into the muscle area or subcutaneously. In this case, an individual dosage and treatment regimen is selected depending on the symptoms. For intravenous administration, the drug is diluted with a solution of sodium chloride.
Adverse reactions
In most cases, the drug "Interferon human leukocyte" reviews are positive. However, medicine knows cases of adverse reactions to such a correction. Most often they occur due to an incorrectly selected treatment regimen. This is exactly what happens in the case of self-administration of the drug. The reactions to the drug include the following:
- disorders of the digestive system (diarrhea, diarrhea, flatulence, nausea, and so on);
- malfunctions of the liver and circulatory system;
- drowsiness or overexcitation;
- rash and pruritus.
If at least one of the listed signs appears after using the medicine, you should stop taking the remedy as soon as possible and consult a doctor.
Medicine price
How much does this immunomodulatory agent cost? Much depends on the region in which the medicine is bought. Dry powder for the preparation of the composition is packaged in separate glass ampoules. One pack contains 10 such ampoules.
The price of a package of "Human leukocyte Interferon" ranges from 60 to 100 rubles. It is worth noting that already prepared formulations have other trade names, and also have a higher cost, for example:
- "Grippferon" (drops in the nose): from 250 to 400 rubles;
- "Viferon" (rectal suppositories): from 150 to 300 rubles.
Special instructions for the use of the product
The liquid solution must be prepared immediately before each use. It is not recommended to store an open ampoule for more than eight hours. The drug in dry form must be kept in the refrigerator.
The tool goes well with other antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal medicines. That is why it is often used in the complex therapy of pathologies.
During the period of treatment, care should be taken when driving vehicles and engaging in other activities that require increased concentration.
Summarizing
You now know all about the drug called Human Leukocyte Interferon. Despite its safety, the drug is not recommended for independent use without consulting a doctor. The tool is an excellent cure for many ailments. It does not suppress your own immunity. That is why it is widely used in pediatrics.
The drug is sold without a doctor's prescription. In each pharmacy network you can find this medication or its analogues. Remember that you need to treat the disease on time and correctly. Use the services of doctors and be healthy!
In this article, we will talk about one of the effective antiviral and immunostimulating drugs. We are talking 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 (interferon alfa) is available in two forms - a solution for inhalation and intranasal use and a dry lyophilized powder (sometimes compressed into tablets). The liquid form has a shade from colorless to light pink, dry - from white to pinkish.
Interferon leukocytic human (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 are cleaned by ultra- and microfiltration method.
Analogues of this immunomodulatory drug:
- "Lokferon".
- "Inferon"
- "Nazoferon" and others.
The tool can be used in combination with other medicines. The drug is dispensed without a doctor's prescription, valid for 2 years from the date of manufacture. It must be stored in a place protected from light, cool (2-8 degrees above zero). 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.
The composition of the drug
1 ml of liquid human leukocyte interferon contains:
- Interferon alpha - 1000 IU.
- Sodium chloride - 0.09 mg.
- Sodium dihydrophosphate 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 the immune status.
- Antibacterial effect - the fight against various types of mixed infections.
- Antiviral action - helps the body resist diseases such as herpes, influenza, adenovirus diseases.
- Anti-inflammatory, antitumor effect.
Dry and liquid agent is non-toxic, sterile, harmless when administered through the respiratory tract. In this case, the use of powder for injection is prohibited.
Indications for use
Human leukocyte interferon is used both for the prevention of acute viral infections and for the treatment of early forms of the disease with initial symptoms.
Indications can be divided into three main groups:
- Intranasal use: preventive measures and treatment of acute respiratory viral infections, influenza.
- Parenteral use: genital warts, hepatitis B and C, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, malignant melanoma, multiple myeloma, renal carcinoma, Kaposi's sarcoma in those suffering from AIDS (not suffering from acute infections at that time), hairy cell leukemia, mycosis fungoides.
- Rectal application: therapy of chronic and acute viral hepatitis.
Also, the drug will 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.
- Violation of the functions of the central nervous system.
- Violation of the functions of the kidneys and liver, hematopoietic system.
- organic heart disease.
- Chronic hepatitis in persons whose recent treatment has consisted of immunosuppressants.
- Diseases of the thyroid gland.
- chronic hepatitis.
- Cirrhosis of the liver with signs of liver failure.
- Pregnancy and lactation.
- Allergy.
- Increased individual sensitivity to the active ingredient - 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 package is broken.
- There are no markings on the container.
Dosage and application
Instructions for use of human leukocyte interferon prescribes:
- For children under 3 years of age, administer the drug only intranasally (spray, instillation).
- Children from 3 years old, adults are additionally allowed inhalation.
Intranasal application. The ampoule with the medicine is opened immediately before use. Then chilled boiled or sterile distilled water is added to it strictly up to the line of 2 ml per capsule. The product is gently shaken until completely dissolved.
The drug is instilled into the nose with a syringe without a needle or a medical pipette. Another way is spraying: you can use both a third-party sprayer and the one that comes with the preparation. The nozzle is put on a syringe without a needle, then brought close to the nasal passage or going into it by about 0.5 cm. Spraying occurs by pressing the syringe plunger. The patient should sit with his head thrown back.
Dosage of the drug:
- Prevention: apply 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: at the first signs of the disease. 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 the same doses.
Inhalation. Inhalation use is considered more effective. For him, 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.
Injection is prohibited!
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, a violation of the liver.
- From the side of the central nervous system: ataxia, drowsiness or sleep disturbance, impaired consciousness, depression, nervousness.
- From the side of the heart and blood vessels: arrhythmia, arterial hypotension.
- Dermatological effects: 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
It is worth using the product with caution when:
- Recent myocardial infarction.
- Myelodepression, changes in blood clotting.
- Elderly patients who have been diagnosed with CNS side effects when using high doses of the drug. It may even be worth interrupting the treatment.
- Patients with hepatitis C should be screened for TSH levels before treatment. Only with normal indicators, you can start therapy with interferon. In other cases, there may be a violation of the functions of the thyroid gland.
- Combination with opioid analgesics, hypnotics, sedatives.
Human leukocyte interferon is an effective immunostimulating anti-infective agent. It has a number of features of use and contraindications, therefore, before use, familiarity with the instructions is necessary.
Treatment of respiratory diseases is not complete without affecting the cause of the disease and increasing the activity of the body's defenses. And it is very good when both effects can be achieved using one drug. Leukocyte interferon has such properties. When and how to use it, what contraindications to consider - this and much more is reflected in the instructions.
The active ingredient of the drug is alpha-interferon (human leukocyte). This is a group of proteins that are produced by white blood cells in response to stimulation by a specific virus. After that, the substance is purified by ultra- and microfiltration.
In addition to the active substance, the composition of the drug includes some auxiliary ingredients: sodium salts (chloride, hydrogen phosphate, dihydrogen phosphate) and water for injection. The drug solution is clear, colorless or has a slightly pink tint. It is intended for intranasal administration or inhalation, produced in glass ampoules of 2 or 5 ml.
Properties
Alpha-interferon belongs to the group of cytokines - biologically active substances synthesized by immunocompetent cells in response to antigenic stimulation. The main therapeutic effects of the drug are as follows:
- Antiviral.
- Antibacterial.
- Immunostimulating.
Liquid human leukocyte interferon has a predominantly indirect effect on the pathogen - by strengthening the defense mechanisms in not yet infected cells and stimulating the immune response. By binding to membrane receptors, it prevents adhesion (sticking) and penetration of viral particles inside, activates specific enzymes that inhibit the replication of nucleic acids and the transcription of pathogenic proteins.
Due to the modulation of immune responses (stimulation of phagocytosis and the function of natural killers, activation of T-helpers and differentiation of B-lymphocytes), the pathogen is neutralized and eliminated from the body. Thus, interferon promotes faster recovery and prevents possible complications of the infection.
An antiviral protein derived from leukocytes increases the protective properties of cells, normalizes and enhances the course of immune reactions.
Indications
Alpha-interferon is active against various intracellular pathogens: influenza and parainfluenza, herpes, adeno- and rhinoviruses, chlamydia, etc. Therefore, it is widely used for the treatment and prevention of acute respiratory infections. There are no other indications for the intranasal or inhalation form of the drug.
Application
And although the drug is a purified product of the human immune system, its use must still be agreed with the doctor. Interferon should not be used as self-medication, since it is not the only medication that the patient needs. Moreover, therapy is prescribed only after the diagnosis is established.
Method of administration
Liquid human leukocyte interferon is taken in the form of drops in the nose, irrigation or inhalation. Injections of this dosage form are strictly prohibited. The ampoule should be opened immediately before use, and the remnants of the medication should not be stored for more than 24 hours.
For prophylactic purposes, interferon is administered intranasally (into the nose). Children and adults need 5 drops in each nostril twice a day. As a treatment, this is done every one to two hours. But the most effective from a therapeutic point of view is the inhalation of interferon through an inhaler (preferably heated) or a nebulizer. This route of administration involves the use of 3 ampoules of the drug dissolved in 4 ml of water for injection. Inhalations are carried out 2 times a day. The duration of therapy is usually 3 days.
Side effects
Interferon is positioned as a safe drug with a low likelihood of adverse reactions. In persons with intolerance to the drug, allergic manifestations may appear in the form of rashes and urticaria, skin itching, and swelling. In rare cases, there are:
- Lethargy and drowsiness, depression, loss of appetite.
- Headaches, irritability, dizziness.
- Dry mouth, taste change, heartburn, nausea, bloating.
- Joint and muscle pain.
- visual disturbances.
However, in most cases, interferon is very well tolerated, which leads to its wide popularity as a preventive and therapeutic agent. There were also no cases of overdose during the use of the drug.
Among the side effects of taking interferon, allergic reactions may occur. Other negative phenomena are observed extremely rarely.
Restrictions
Despite the natural composition of the drug, it must be used taking into account the condition of the patient's body and the presence of concomitant diseases. In the process of diagnosis, the doctor identifies all limiting factors, making a conclusion about the advisability of introducing interferon.
Contraindications
The safety of treatment and prevention with the drug can be ensured only if the patient has no contraindications. Interferon liquid in the instructions for use contains information about several such conditions:
- Individual hypersensitivity.
- Allergic reactions in history.
- Severe diseases of the liver and kidneys.
- Cardiac ischemia.
- Pathology of the hematopoietic system.
- Epilepsy.
During pregnancy and while breastfeeding, it is better to take the medicine with caution, carefully weighing the likely risks and benefits.
Interaction
Interferon can be used in combination with other medicines, such as antibiotics or mucolytics. With the simultaneous appointment of lysozyme or methyluracil, the effectiveness of the drug in question increases (pronounced synergism of action).
special instructions
Interferon prophylaxis should be started a week before the expected start of the epidemic season. It should be continued until the risk of infection has been eliminated. And treatment is most effective if it begins on the first day of a respiratory infection.
Leukocyte interferon for intranasal administration and inhalation is an effective tool in the fight against respiratory infections. The drug is used by adults and children for the treatment and prevention of influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections. And although it is a safe biological product, it should not be used without a doctor's prescription.
Latin name:Interferon leukocytic human fluidComposition and form of release: Solution for intranasal administration and inhalation, 1000-IU / ml are produced in 2 ml (2000 ME) or 5 ml (5000 ME) ampoules in ampoules with a line or breakpoint or without a line and without a breakpoint, 5 ml (5000 ME) in glass vials complete with dropper made of polymeric material or in vials made of polymeric material with a dropper. Composition (1 ml): 5, 10 ampoules with instructions for use are placed in packs of cardboard and an ampoule knife. When using ampoules with a line or a break point, an ampoule scarifier or a knife for opening ampoules is not inserted. 1, 5, 10 bottles of each type with instructions for use are placed in cardboard packs. Colorless to light pink solution. Prevention and treatment of influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections. The drug has no contraindications when administered through the respiratory tract. Use with caution in persons with hypersensitivity to antibiotics and with hypersensitivity to drugs of protein origin, including chicken meat, chicken eggs. With caution: persons with a history of allergic diseases. During pregnancy and lactation, Interferon is prescribed only if the expected effect for the mother outweighs the risk to the fetus. For the prevention of influenza other acute, respiratory viral infections, the drug is used by spraying or instillation of an aqueous solution. Injection is strictly prohibited. The ampoule or vial with the drug should be opened immediately before use. An opened ampoule with the drug can be stored at a temperature of 2 to 8 ° C for no more than one day. An opened vial, carefully closed with a dropper made of polymeric material, can be stored at a temperature of 2 to 8 ° C for up to three days. Spraying the drug can be done with sprayers of any system. For children and adults, the same dosing regimen is used. When instilled, the drug is administered 5 drops into each nasal passage 2 times a day with an interval of at least 6 hours. When treating the drug, use it by inhalation, spraying or instillation. Maybe: allergic reactions (urticaria, polymorphic rash, etc.). Cases of overdose have not been identified. In experiments in tissue culture conducted in the laboratory of antibiotics, it was found that when used together, methyluracil with human leukocyte interferon liquid, a pronounced synergistic effect is observed. A pronounced synergistic effect is observed with a combination of human leukocyte interferon with lysozyme. For the purpose of prophylaxis, the administration of the drug should be started at an immediate threat of infection and continued until the risk of infection persists. For the purpose of treatment, the drug should be used at an early stage of the disease when the first clinical symptoms appear. At a temperature of 2 to 8 ° C in a dry, protected from light and a place inaccessible to children.
For children and adults, the same dosing regimen is used. The most effective way is inhalation. For its implementation, inhalers equipped with electric heating or another system are recommended. For one injection, the contents of 3 ampoules of the drug are used, to which add 4 ml of water. Heat the solution to a temperature not exceeding 37 °C. By inhalation, the drug is administered 2 times a day with an interval of at least 6 hours. When instilled, the drug is administered in 0.25 ml (5 drops) into each nasal passage after 1-2 hours, at least 5 times a day, for 2-3 days.
Analogues for the active substance:
Release forms:
The composition of interferon preparations depends on their form of release.
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;
- spray can;
- oral solution;
- rectal suppositories;
- vaginal suppositories;
- implants;
- microclysters;
- tablets (in tablets, interferon is produced under the brand name Entalferon).
pharmachologic effect
IFN preparations belong to the group of medicines antiviral and immunomodulatory action .
All IFNs have antiviral and antitumor activity . Equally important is their ability to stimulate action. macrophages - cells that play an important role in initiation.
IFNs contribute to an increase in the body's resistance to penetration viruses and block reproduction viruses when they enter the cell. The latter is due to the ability of IFN to suppress translation of the messenger (messenger) RNA of the virus .
At the same time, the antiviral effect of IFN is not directed against certain viruses , that is, IFNs are not characterized by virus specificity. This explains their versatility and a wide range of antiviral activity.
Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics
The main biological effect of α-IFN is inhibition of viral protein synthesis . The antiviral state of the cell develops within a few hours after the application of the drug or the induction of IFN production in the body.
At the same time, IFN does not affect the early stages replication 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 is manifested even in the case of cell infection infectious RNA . IFN does not enter the cell, but only interacts with specific receptors on cell membranes (gangliosides or similar structures containing oligosugar ).
The mechanism of activity of IFN alpha resembles the action of individual glycopeptide hormones . It stimulates activity genes , some of which are involved in coding the formation of products with direct antiviral action .
β interferons also have antiviral action , which is associated with several mechanisms of action at once. Beta interferon activates NO-synthetase, which in turn increases the concentration of nitric oxide inside the cell. The latter plays a key role in the suppression of reproduction viruses .
β-IFN activates secondary, effector functions natural killerosin , 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 virus RNA .
γ-IFN is involved in the regulation of the immune response and regulates the severity inflammatory reactions. Although he has his own antiviral 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 in is observed after 3-12 hours. The bioavailability index is 100% (both after injection under the skin and after injection into the muscle).
The duration of the half-life T½ is from 2 to 7 hours. Trace concentrations of IFN in plasma are not detected after 16-24 hours.
Indications for use
IFN is designed to treat viral diseases that hit respiratory tract .
In addition, interferon preparations are prescribed for patients with chronic forms hepatitis, and Delta .
For treatment viral diseases and, in particular, IFN-α is predominantly used (both of which are IFN-alpha 2b and IFN-alpha 2a). The "gold standard" of treatment hepatitis C considered to be pegylated interferons alpha-2b and alpha-2a. In comparison with them, conventional interferons are less effective.
The genetic polymorphism noted in the IL28B gene, which is responsible for encoding IFN lambda-3, causes significant differences in the effect of treatment.
Patients with genotype 1 hepatitis C with common alleles of this gene are more likely to achieve longer and more pronounced treatment results compared to other patients.
IFN is also often given to patients with oncological diseases : malignant , pancreatic endocrine tumors , non-Hodgkin's lymphoma , carcinoid tumors ; Kaposi's sarcoma , due to ; 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 case of (in cases where the appropriate therapy does not give 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 the result of the introduction of interferon in / in, s / c or / m, but other pharmaceutical forms of the drug can also provoke them.
The most common adverse reactions to taking IFN are:
- anorexia;
- nausea;
- chills;
- trembling in the body.
Vomiting, increased, feeling of dry mouth, hair loss (), asthenia ; non-specific symptoms resembling flu symptoms ; backache, depressive states , musculoskeletal pain , thoughts of suicide and suicide attempt, general malaise, impaired taste and concentration, increased irritability, sleep disorders (often), arterial hypotension , confusion.
Rare side effects include: pain on the right in the upper abdomen, rashes on the body (erythematous and maculopapular), increased nervousness, soreness and severe inflammation at the injection site, 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, loose stools, hyper or hypothyroidism , hearing impairment (up to its complete loss), the formation of infiltrates in the lungs, increased appetite, bleeding gums, convulsions in the limbs dyspnea , renal dysfunction and development of renal failure , peripheral ischemia , hyperuricemia , neuropathy etc..
Treatment with IFN drugs can cause reproductive dysfunction . Studies in primates have shown that interferon disturbs the menstrual cycle in women . In addition, in women treated with IFN-α, the level of and in.
For this reason, when prescribing interferon, women of childbearing age should use barrier contraceptives . Men of reproductive age are also advised to be informed of potential side effects.
In rare cases, treatment with interferon may be accompanied by ophthalmic disorders, which are expressed as hemorrhages in the retina , 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 ophthalmic (second cranial) nerve , arterial obstruction or retinal veins .
Sometimes against the background of taking interferon can develop hyperglycemia , symptoms of nephrotic syndrome , . In patients with diabetes may worsen the clinical picture of the disease.
It cannot be ruled out that the possibility of cerebrovascular hemorrhage , erythema multiforme , tissue necrosis at the injection site cardiac and cerebrovascular ischemia , hypertriglyceridermia , sarcoidosis (or exacerbation of its course), Lyell's syndromes and Stevens-Johnson .
The use of interferon alone or in combination with Ribavirin in rare cases, it can cause aplastic anemia (AA) or even PAKKM ( complete aplasia of the red bone marrow ).
There were also cases when, on the background of treatment with interferon preparations, the patient developed various autoimmune and immune-mediated disorders (including Werlhof's disease and Moszkowitz's disease ).
Interferon, instructions for use
Instructions for the use of interferons alpha, beta and gamma indicate that before prescribing a drug to a patient, it is recommended to determine how sensitive to it that caused the disease.
The method of administration of human leukocyte interferon is determined depending on the diagnosis made to the patient. In most cases, it is prescribed in the form of subcutaneous injections, but in some cases the drug can be injected into a muscle or vein.
The dose for treatment, the maintenance dose and the duration of treatment are determined depending on the clinical situation and the response of the patient's body to the therapy prescribed to him.
“Children's” interferon is suppositories, drops and ointment.
Instructions for the use of interferon for children recommends the use of this drug as a therapeutic and prophylactic agent. The dose for infants and older children is selected by the attending physician.
For prophylactic 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 in the cold for no more than 24-48 hours. The drug is instilled into the nose of children and adults.
At viral ophthalmic diseases the drug is prescribed in the form of drops for the eyes.
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 herpesviruses , the ointment is applied with 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 ORZ and must be lubricated nasal passages . The frequency of procedures during the 1st and 3rd week of the course is 2 times a day. During the 2nd week, it is recommended to take a break. For prophylactic purposes, interferon should be used throughout the entire period epidemics of respiratory diseases .
The duration of the rehabilitation course in children who often have recurrent viral and bacterial infections of the respiratory tract , ENT organs , recurrent infection caused by herpes simplex virus , is two months.
How to breed and how to use interferon in ampoules?
Instructions for the use of interferon in ampoules indicate that before use, the ampoule must be opened, poured into it with water (distilled or boiled) at room temperature 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 injections.
For therapeutic purposes, IFN is started when the first flu symptoms . The effectiveness of the drug is higher, the sooner the patient starts taking it.
The most effective is the inhalation method (through the nose or mouth). For one inhalation, it is recommended to take the contents of three ampoules of the drug, dissolved in 10 ml of water.
Water is preheated to a temperature not exceeding +37 °C. Inhalation procedures are carried out twice a day, maintaining an interval of at least one to two hours between them.
When spraying or instillation, the contents of the ampoule are dissolved in two milliliters of water and 0.25 ml (or five drops) are injected into each nasal passage three to six times a day. The duration of treatment is 2-3 days.
For preventive purposes, nose drops for children are instilled (5 drops) twice a day, at the initial stage of the development 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 are interested in whether it is possible to drip a solution of interferon into the eyes. The answer to this question is in the affirmative.
Overdose
Cases of overdose with interferon are not described.
Interaction
β-IFN is compatible with corticosteroid drugs and ACTH. Should not be taken during treatment myelosuppressive drugs , incl. cytostatics (this may cause additive effect ).
With caution, IFN-β is prescribed with agents whose clearance is largely dependent on cytochrome P450 systems (antiepileptic drugs , some antidepressants and etc.).
Do not take IFN-alpha and Telbivudine . 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 level ).
Terms of sale
A prescription is required to dispense the drug.
Storage conditions
Interferon is stored in a cool place protected from sunlight at a temperature of +2 to +8°C. List B.
Best before date
24 months. The prepared solution of interferon at room temperature remains stable for 3 days.
special instructions
Interferon - what is it?
Interferons are a class with similar properties glycoproteins , which are produced by vertebrate cells in response to exposure to various types of inducers, both viral and non-viral in nature.
According to Wikipedia, in order for a biologically active substance to be qualified as an interferon, it must be of a protein nature, have a pronounced antiviral activity in relation to various viruses , at least 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.
According to antigenicity (antigenic specificity), IFN is usually divided into acid-resistant and acid-labile. Alpha and beta interferons (also called type I IFNs) are acid-fast. Interferon gamma (γ-IFN) is acid-labile.
α-IFN produce peripheral blood leukocytes (B- and T-type leukocytes), so it was previously designated as leukocyte interferon . Currently, there are at least 14 of its varieties.
β-IFN is produced fibroblasts , so it is also called fibroblastic .
Former designation γ-IFN - immune interferon , but its stimulated T-type lymphocytes , NK cells (normal (natural) killers; from the English “natural killer”) and (presumably) macrophages .
Main 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 preparations 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 focus of infection a kind of barrier is formed from resistant to virus uninfected cells, which prevents further spread of the infection.
Interacting with still intact (intact) cells, it prevents the implementation of the reproductive cycle viruses by activating certain cellular enzymes ( protein kinases ).
The most important function of interferons is the ability to suppress hematopoiesis ; modulate the body's immune response and inflammatory response; regulate the processes of cell proliferation and differentiation; inhibit growth and prevent reproduction viral cells ; stimulate the expression of surface antigens ; suppress individual functions B- and T-type leukocytes to stimulate activity NK cells etc..
Use of IFN in biotechnology
Development of methods for synthesis and high-performance purification leukocyte and recombinant interferons in quantities sufficient for the production of drugs, made it possible to open the possibility of using IFN preparations for the treatment of patients diagnosed with viral hepatitis .
A distinctive feature of recombinant IFNs is that they are obtained outside the human body.
Coincidence in the ATX code of the 4th level:Each type of interferon has analogues. Interferon alfa-2a preparations - Reaferon , Roferon . Recombinant human interferon alfa 2b is available under brand names Intron-A , Intrek , .
Interferon alfa-2C preparations used in the clinic are Berofor , Egiferon , Velferon .
β-IFN preparations: Betaseron , fron .
γ-IFN preparations: Gammaferon , Immunoferon , imukan .
Interferon for children
According to the instructions, interferon preparations are shown to children:
- at infectious and inflammatory diseases of the respiratory system ;
- at ;
- at sepsis ;
- for the treatment of children viral infections (for example, or );
- for treatment chronic viral hepatitis .
IFN is also used in therapy, the purpose of which is the rehabilitation of frequently ill patients. respiratory infections children.
The most optimal option for taking children is nasal drops: with this use, 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). Candles for children should be administered one 2 times a day, maintaining 12-hour intervals between injections. The course of treatment is 5 days. To fully cure a child SARS As a rule, one course is enough.
For treatment, take 0.5 g of ointment twice a day. Treatment lasts an average of 2 weeks. Over the next 2-4 weeks, the ointment is applied 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 . No less effective are inhalations with interferon for children.
The effect of using the drug increases significantly if a nebulizer is used for its administration (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, it is necessary to turn off the heating function in it (IFN is a protein, it is destroyed at a temperature of more than 37 ° C).
For inhalation in a nebulizer, the contents of one ampoule are diluted in 2-3 ml of distilled or mineral water (you can also use saline for this purpose). 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, because addiction develops to it and, therefore, the expected effect does not develop.
Interferon during pregnancy
An exception may be cases where the expected benefit of therapy for the expectant mother will outweigh the risk of adverse reactions and adverse effects on fetal development.
The possibility of isolating the components of recombinant IFN with breast milk is not ruled out. Due to the fact that the possibility of exposure to the fetus through milk cannot be ruled out, IFN is not prescribed for lactating women.
In extreme cases, when it is impossible to avoid the appointment of IFN, it is recommended that a woman refuse to breastfeed during therapy. To mitigate the side effect of the drug (the occurrence of symptoms similar to those of the flu), it is recommended to simultaneously prescribe with IFN .
