Immunostimulants and immunomodulators drugs. Immunomodulators: what they are, what they are needed for, list of effective drugs

Immunomodulators are drugs that help the body fight bacteria and viruses by strengthening the body's defenses. Adults and children are allowed to take such medications only as prescribed by a doctor. Immunotherapy drugs have a lot of adverse reactions if the dosage is not observed and the drug is selected incorrectly.

In order not to harm the body, you need to choose immunomodulators wisely.

Description and classification of immunomodulators

What immunomodulatory drugs are in general terms is clear, now it’s worth understanding what they are. Immunomodulatory agents have certain properties that affect human immunity.

The following types are distinguished:

1. Immunostimulants- These are unique immunoboosting drugs that help the body develop or strengthen existing immunity to a particular infection.
2. Immunosuppressants– suppress the activity of the immune system if the body begins to fight against itself.

All immunomodulators perform various functions to some extent (sometimes even several), therefore they also distinguish:

• immunostrengthening agents;
• immunosuppressants;
• antiviral immunostimulating drugs;
• antitumor immunostimulating agents.

It makes no sense to choose which drug is the best of all groups, since they are on the same level and help with various pathologies. They are incomparable.

Their action in the human body will be aimed at immunity, but what they will do depends entirely on the class of the chosen drug, and the difference in choice is very large.

An immunomodulator may be by nature:

• natural (homeopathic medicines);
• synthetic.

Also, an immunomodulatory drug can be different in the type of synthesis of substances:

• endogenous - substances are synthesized already in the human body;
• exogenous - substances enter the body from the outside, but have natural sources of plant origin (herbs and other plants);
• synthetic - all substances are grown artificially.

The effect of taking a drug from any group is quite strong, so it is also worth mentioning why these drugs are dangerous. If immunomodulators are used long time uncontrolled, then if they are canceled, the person’s real immunity will be zero and there will be no way to fight infections without these drugs.

If drugs are prescribed for children, but the dosage is not correct for some reason, this may contribute to the fact that the growing child’s body will not be able to independently strengthen its protective forces and subsequently the baby will often get sick (you need to choose special children's medications). In adults, such a reaction can also be noted due to the initial weakness of the immune system.

Video: advice from Dr. Komarovsky

What is it prescribed for?

Immune drugs prescribed to those people whose immune status is significantly lower than normal, and therefore their body is unable to fight various infections. The prescription of immunomodulators is appropriate when the disease is so severe that even a healthy person with good immunity cannot overcome it. Most of these drugs have an antiviral effect, and therefore are prescribed in combination with other drugs to treat many diseases.

Modern immunomodulators are used in the following cases:

• for allergies to restore the body's strength;
• for herpes of any type to eliminate the virus and restore immunity;
• for influenza and ARVI to eliminate symptoms of the disease, get rid of the causative agent of the disease and maintain the body in rehabilitation period so that other infections do not have time to develop in the body;
• for a cold for a speedy recovery, so as not to use antibiotics, but to help the body recover on its own;
• in gynecology, an immunostimulating drug is used to treat some viral diseases to help the body cope with it;
• HIV is also treated with immunomodulators various groups in combination with other medications (various stimulants, medications that have antiviral effects and many others).

Even several types of immunomodulators can be used for a certain disease, but all of them must be prescribed by a doctor, since self-prescription of such strong drugs can only worsen a person’s health condition.

Features in purpose

Immunomodulators should be prescribed by a doctor so that he can select an individual dosage of the drug according to the patient’s age and illness. These medications come in different forms of release, and the patient may be prescribed one of the most convenient forms for administration:

• pills;
• capsules;
• injections;
• candles;
• injections in ampoules.

Which is better for the patient to choose, but after coordinating his decision with the doctor. Another plus is that inexpensive but effective immunomodulators are sold, and therefore the price problem will not arise in the way of eliminating the disease.

Many immunomodulators have natural herbal ingredients in their composition, others, on the contrary, contain only synthetic components, and therefore it will not be difficult to choose a group of drugs that is better suited in a particular case.

It should be borne in mind that such medications should be prescribed with caution to people from certain groups, namely:

• for those who are preparing for pregnancy;
• for pregnant and breastfeeding women;
• It is better not to prescribe such drugs to children under one year of age unless absolutely necessary;
• children from 2 years of age are prescribed strictly under the supervision of a doctor;
• To old people;
• people with endocrine diseases;
• for severe chronic diseases.

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The most common immunomodulators

There are many effective immunomodulators sold in pharmacies. They will differ in their quality and price, but with proper selection of the drug they will greatly help the human body in the fight against viruses and infections. Let's consider the most common list of drugs in this group, the list of which is indicated in the table.

Photos of drugs:

Interferon

Lycopid

Dekaris

Kagocel

Arbidol

Viferon

Amiksin

WITH clinical manifestations Insufficiency of the immune system (primarily this is manifested by the presence of a chronic inflammatory process or often recurrent diseases such as acute respiratory infections, bronchitis, herpes, furunculosis, etc.) is encountered by doctors of any specialty. However, many still have prejudices regarding the advisability of using immunomodulators. This opinion was formed, on the one hand, as a consequence of the difficulty of interpreting, and often the impossibility of performing, immunological tests, and on the other hand, the low efficiency of first-generation immunomodulators. However, over the past 10 years, knowledge of how the immune system works has deepened and new highly effective and safe drugs have been created, without the use of which the treatment of many diseases is impossible today.
The diagram below shows almost all immunomodulators actually present on the pharmaceutical market in Russia. This article provides a brief description of only part of them, namely domestic immunomodulators latest generation.
Immunomodulators are drugs with immunotropic activity, which therapeutic doses restore the functions of the immune system (effective immune protection) (Khaitov R.M., Pinegin B.V.). The simplest and most convenient classification of immunomodulators by origin, developed at the Institute of Immunology. According to this classification, immunomodulators are divided into three groups: endogenous, exogenous and synthetic. To immunomodulators endogenous origin include immunoregulatory peptides and cytokines, as well as their recombinant or synthetic analogues. The vast majority of exogenous immunomodulators are substances of microbial origin, mainly bacterial and fungal. The 3rd group of immunomodulators includes synthetic substances obtained as a result of directed chemical synthesis.
Immunomodulators of endogenous origin
Currently, immunoregulatory peptides obtained from the central organs of immunity (thymus and bone marrow), cytokines, interferons and effector proteins of the immune system (immunoglobulins) are used as immunomodulators of endogenous origin.
Immunoregulatory peptides obtained from the central organs of the immune system
First generation immunomodulators obtained from thymus tissue extracts include tactivin and thymalin.
Taktivin- a drug of polypeptide nature, obtained from thymus gland cattle. Normalizes quantitative and functional indicators T-system of immunity, stimulates the production of lymphokines and other indicators of cellular immunity. Used in adults in complex therapy of infectious, purulent, septic processes, for lymphoproliferative diseases (lymphogranulomatosis, lymphocytic leukemia), recurrent ophthalmic herpes and other diseases accompanied by a predominant lesion of the T-immune system
Timalin- a complex of polypeptide fractions isolated from the thymus gland of cattle. Regulates the number of T- and B-lymphocytes, stimulates the cellular immune response; enhances phagocytosis. Used in adults and children as an immunostimulant and biostimulator in the complex therapy of diseases accompanied by a decrease in cellular immunity, including acute and chronic purulent processes and inflammatory diseases, burn disease, trophic ulcers, etc., as well as suppression of the immune system and hematopoietic functions after radiation or chemotherapy in cancer patients and other pathological processes.
All thymic drugs have a mild immunomodulatory effect, associated primarily with an increase in the number and functional activity of T-lymphocytes. But they have one drawback: they are an unseparated mixture of biologically active peptides and are quite difficult to standardize. Progress in the field of immunomodulators of thymic origin proceeded through the creation of 2nd and 3rd generation drugs, which are synthetic analogues of natural thymic hormones or fragments of these hormones with biological activity.
The first drug obtained in this direction was Thymogen- a synthetic dipeptide consisting of amino acid residues - glutamine and tryptophan. According to the indications for use, it is similar to other thymic immunomodulators and is used in the complex therapy of adults and children with acute and chronic infectious diseases accompanied by a decrease in cellular immunity, with inhibition of reparative processes after severe injuries (bone fractures), necrotic processes, as well as with other states of immunodeficiency.
The next stage in the creation of thymic drugs was the isolation of a biologically active fragment of one of the thymus hormones - thymopoietin - and the creation of a drug based on it Imunofan, which is 32-36 amino acid residues of thymopoietin. Imunofan showed himself highly effective means restoration of impaired immunological reactivity in chronic bacterial and viral infections, surgical infections. In addition to stimulating immunological reactivity, Imunofan has a pronounced ability to activate the body's antioxidant system. These two properties of imunofan made it possible to recommend it in complex therapy of cancer patients not only to enhance immunity, but also to eliminate toxic free radicals and peroxide compounds. Imunofan is also used for hepatitis B and opportunistic infections in AIDS patients; brucellosis, long-term non-healing wounds of the extremities, purulent-septic postoperative complications; burn shock, acute burn toxemia, combined trauma. Imunofan is used for immunocorrection in allergic diseases and is approved for use in pediatrics.
Immunomodulators obtained from the bone marrow of mammals (pigs or calves) include: Myelopid. Myelopid contains six bone marrow-specific immune response mediators called myelopeptides (MPs). These substances have the ability to stimulate various parts of the immune response, especially humoral immunity. Each myelopeptide has a specific biological effect, the combination of which determines its clinical effect. MP-1 restores the normal balance of activity of T-helpers and T-suppressors. MP-2 suppresses the proliferation of malignant cells and significantly reduces the ability of tumor cells to produce toxic substances that suppress functional activity T-lymphocytes. MP-3 stimulates the activity of the phagocytic component of immunity and, therefore, increases anti-infective immunity. MP-4 affects the differentiation of hematopoietic cells, promoting their faster maturation, i.e., it has a leukopoietic effect. . In immunodeficiency states, the drug restores the indicators of the B- and T-immune systems, stimulates the production of antibodies and the functional activity of immunocompetent cells, and helps restore a number of other indicators of the humoral immunity.
Myelopid is used in adults with secondary immunodeficiency conditions with a predominant lesion of the humoral immune system, including for the prevention infectious complications after surgical interventions, injuries, osteomyelitis and other pathological processes accompanied by inflammatory complications, with nonspecific pulmonary diseases, chronic respiratory diseases in the acute stage (laryngitis, tracheitis, bronchitis, pneumonia); for chronic pyoderma, atopic dermatitis, neurodermatitis, etc., for acute lymphoblastic and myeloblastic leukemia and non-Hodgkin T- and B-cell lymphomas.
Cytokines
Cytokines are low molecular weight hormone-like biomolecules produced by activated immunocompetent cells and are regulators of intercellular interactions. There are several groups of them - interleukins (about 12), growth factors (epidermal, nerve growth factor), colony-stimulating factors, chemotactic factors, tumor necrosis factor. Interleukins are the main participants in the development of the immune response to the introduction of microorganisms, the formation of an inflammatory reaction, the implementation of antitumor immunity, etc. In Russia, the production of two recombinant interleukins has been mastered: Betaleukin and Roncoleukin.
Betaleikin- recombinant human interleukin-1b (IL-1). IL-1 production is carried out primarily by monocytes and macrophages. IL-1 synthesis begins in response to the introduction of microorganisms or tissue damage and triggers a complex of protective reactions that constitute the body's first line of defense. One of the main properties of IL-1 is its ability to stimulate functions and increase the number of leukocytes. Betaleukin increases the production of interferons and interleukins, increases the production of antibodies, increases the number of platelets, accelerates reparative processes in damaged tissues.
Indications for the use of Betaleukin as an immunostimulant are secondary immunodeficiency conditions that develop after severe injuries as a result of purulent-septic and purulent-destructive processes, after extensive surgical interventions, as well as in chronic septic conditions. The indication for the use of Betaleukin as a stimulator of leukopoiesis is toxic leukopenia II-IV degrees, complicating chemotherapy and radiotherapy of malignant tumors.
Roncoleukin is recombinant human interleukin-2 (IL-2). IL-2 is produced in the body by helper T lymphocytes and plays a key role in the initiation and development of the immune response. The drug stimulates the proliferation of T-lymphocytes, activates them, as a result of which they turn into cytotoxic and killer cells capable of destroying a variety of pathogenic microorganisms and malignant cells. IL-2 enhances the formation of immunoglobulins by B cells, activates the function of monocytes and tissue macrophages. In general, IL-2 has an immunomodulatory effect aimed at enhancing the antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and antitumor immune response.
Ronkoleikin used in the complex treatment of sepsis and severe infectious and inflammatory processes various localizations(peritonitis, endometritis, abscesses, meningitis, mediastenitis, osteomyelitis, pancreatitis, paranephritis, pyelonephritis, pneumonia, pleurisy, salpingitis, soft tissue phlegmon) as well as burn disease, tuberculosis, chronic hepatitis C, mycoses, chlamydia, chronic herpes. Roncoleukin in combination with alpha-interferon is an effective immunotherapeutic agent in the treatment of disseminated kidney cancer. The drug has been found to be highly effective in treating cancer Bladder, colorectal cancer III-IV stages, brain tumors, malignant disseminated melanoma of the skin, malignant neoplasms of the mammary glands, cancer prostate gland, ovaries.
Interferons
Interferons are protective substances of a protein nature that are produced by cells in response to the penetration of viruses, as well as to the influence of a number of other natural or synthetic compounds (interferon inducers). Interferons are factors of nonspecific protection of the body from viruses, bacteria, chlamydia, pathogenic fungi, tumor cells, but at the same time they can also act as regulators of intercellular interactions in the immune system. From this position, they belong to immunomodulators of endogenous origin.
Three types of human interferons have been identified: a-interferon (leukocyte), b-interferon (fibroblastic) and g-interferon (immune). g-Interferon has less antiviral activity, but plays a more important immunoregulatory role. Schematically, the mechanism of action of interferon can be represented as follows: interferons bind to a specific receptor in the cell, which leads to the cell’s synthesis of about thirty proteins, which provide the above-mentioned effects of interferon. In particular, regulatory peptides are synthesized that prevent the virus from entering the cell, the synthesis of new viruses in the cell, and stimulate the activity of cytotoxic T-lymphocytes and macrophages.
In Russia, the history of the creation of interferon drugs begins in 1967, the year it was first created and introduced into clinical practice for the prevention and treatment of influenza and ARVI. human leukocyte interferon. Currently, several are produced in Russia modern drugs alpha-interferon, which, according to production technology, are divided into natural and recombinant.
A representative of a new generation of natural interferons is the drug Leukocyte interferon for injection, containing all subtypes of alpha interferons in a natural, physiological ratio. It is used in oncology in the complex treatment of melanoma, kidney cancer, ovarian cancer, etc.
Leukinferon- a complex preparation containing 10,000 IU of natural alpha-interferon and a complex of cytokines of the first phase of the immune response (interleukins 1,6 and 12, tumor necrosis factor, factors inhibiting the migration of macrophages and leukocytes). In addition to antiviral activity, the drug has wide range immunomodulatory action, in particular, it is able to activate almost all stages of the phagocytic process. Leukinferon is used to treat many viral diseases, bacterial infections, including sepsis and tuberculosis, chamidian, mycoplasma, herpetic infections, oncological diseases.
Eye drops Lokferon also contain purified and concentrated human leukocyte interferon with an activity of 8,000 IU per vial. Used in the treatment of eye diseases of viral etiology.
The new direction is rectal administration interferon drugs. The use of interferon in the form of suppositories provides a simple, safe and painless method of administration and helps maintain high concentrations of interferon in the blood for a longer period. In Russia, such natural interferons are produced as with an activity of 40,000 IU per candle and Suppositopheron with an activity of 10,000, 20,000 or 30,000 IU. These drugs are used for various immunodeficiency conditions, acute and chronic viral hepatitis, urogenital infections, dysbiosis, ARVI, measles, chickenpox in children and adults.
The technology for the production of natural interferons has certain limitations associated with the need for large quantities of leukomass and the difficulty of obtaining sufficient quantity interferon with high activity. The genetic engineering method for obtaining recombinant interferon allows one to overcome these obstacles, in addition genetic engineering method makes it possible to receive pure form different kinds interferons. 5 domestic preparations of recombinant interferon-alpha2b are produced.
At the State Scientific Center NPO "Vector" under the name Reaferon-EC Recombinant interferon alpha-2b is produced with an activity of 1, 3 or 5 million IU in an ampoule intended for intramuscular administration. Interferon ointment is also produced here, containing 10,000 IU of interferon-alpha2b per 1 g. Recombinant interferon alpha-2 was also developed at the State Scientific Research Institute of Highly Pure Biological Preparations. Recombinant alpha interferon preparations are used to treat viral infections (mainly chronic viral hepatitis), as well as in the treatment of certain oncological diseases (cancer and melanoma).
Viferon, which includes interferon alpha-2b, as well as antioxidants vitamin E and ascorbic acid. Viferon is available in the form rectal suppositories in four dosages: 150,000 IU, 500,000 IU, 1 million IU and 3 million IU in a suppository, as well as in the form of an ointment containing 200,000 IU of interferon activity per 1 g. Viferon has significantly expanded indications for use compared to other interferon drugs. It can be used in almost any infectious pathology in any age groups. Viferon has the most gentle effect on the immune system in weakened patients, newborns and premature infants with immature and imperfect antiviral and antimicrobial defense mechanisms. Therefore, Viferon is the only interferon drug recommended for the treatment of not only adults, but also newborn children and pregnant women. This is especially true for viral treatment, bacterial and chlamydial infections in pregnant women and newborns, when the use of other drugs is contraindicated.
Grippferon- a new dosage form of interferon-alpha-2b, intended for use in the form of nasal drops. Grippferon is used for the prevention and treatment of influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections.
Kipferon- a combined preparation containing recombinant interferon alpha-2b and a complex immunoglobulin preparation (a complex of human immunoglobulins of classes M, A, G). Kipferon is used vaginally or rectally in the complex therapy of chlamydia, herpetic infections of the genitourinary organs, papillomas and condylomas of the genital organs, acute and chronic prostatitis, bacterial colpitis of various etiologies (staphylococcal, trichomonas, chlamydial, etc.), vaginal dysbiosis, accompanying inflammatory processes of the cervix, body and uterine appendages, preparation for planned gynecological operations and childbirth in order to prevent purulent-septic complications.
Immunoglobulins
Healing serums, were the prototype of modern immunoglobulin drugs, and some of them (antidiphtheria and antitetanus) have not lost their clinical significance to this day. However, the development of technology for processing blood products made it possible to implement the ideas of passive immunization, first in the form of concentrated immunoglobulin preparations for intramuscular administration, and then immunoglobulins for intravenous administration. For a long time, the effectiveness of immunoglobulin drugs was explained solely by the passive transfer of antibodies. By binding to the corresponding antigens, antibodies neutralize them, convert them into an insoluble form, as a result of which the mechanisms of phagocytosis, complement-dependent lysis and subsequent elimination of antigens from the body are triggered. However, in recent years, due to the proven effectiveness of intravenous immunoglobulins in some autoimmune diseases The immunomodulatory role of immunoglobulins is being actively studied. Thus, intravenous immunoglobulins were found to have the ability to change the production of interleukins and the level of expression of receptors for IL-2. The effect of immunoglobulin preparations on the activity of various subpopulations of T-lymphocytes and a stimulating effect on the processes of phagocytosis has also been demonstrated.
Intramuscular immunoglobulins, used clinically since the 50s, have relatively low bioavailability. Resorption of the drug is carried out from the injection site within 2-3 days and more than half of the drug is destroyed by proteolytic enzymes. In Russia, intramuscular immunoglobulins are produced that contain elevated titers of antibodies to antigens of certain pathogens: tick-borne encephalitis virus, influenza, herpes and cytomegalovirus, HBS antigen (Antihep).
Intravenous immunoglobulins have significant advantages because their use allows as soon as possible create effective concentrations of antibodies in the blood. Currently, a number of human immunoglobulins are produced in Russia for intravenous administration(enterprises "Imbio", "Immunopreparat", Yekaterinburg and Khabarovsk State Enterprise for the production of bacterial preparations). However, foreign-made intravenous immunoglobulins are considered more effective (Pentaglobin, Cytotect, Intraglobin, Hepatect, Immunoglobulin Biochemi, Octagam, Sandoglobulin, Biaven V.I., Venoglubulin).
Intravenous immunoglobulins are used for primary immunodeficiencies (agammaglobulinemia, selective deficiency IgG, etc.), hypogammaglobulinemia with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, thrombocytopenic purpura, other autoimmune diseases, as well as for severe viral and bacterial infections, sepsis, for the prevention of infectious complications in premature infants.
Complex immunoglobulin preparation (CIP). CIP contains human immunoglobulins of three classes: Ig A (15-25%), Ig M (15-25%) and Ig G (50-70%). KIP is distinguished from all other immunoglobulin preparations by its high content of Ig A and Ig M, and an increased concentration of antibodies to gram-negative enteropathogenic bacteria intestinal group(Shigella, Salmonella, Escherichia, etc.), high concentration of antibodies to rotaviruses, as well as oral administration. CIP is used for acute intestinal infections, dysbiosis, chronic enterocolitis, allergic dermatoses combined with intestinal dysfunction.
Close to immunoglobulin drugs in terms of passive transfer of immunity is the drug Affinoleukin. It contains a complex of low-molecular proteins of human leukocyte extract capable of carrying immunoreactivity to common antigens infectious diseases(herpes, staphylococcus, streptococcus, mycobacterium tuberculosis, etc.) and affinity binding to them. The administration of Afinoleukin leads to the induction of immunity against those antigens for which the leukocyte donors had immunological memory. The drug has undergone clinical trials in the treatment herpes simplex, herpes zoster, hepatitis, adenoviral infections in addition to the main therapy that did not produce the expected results.
Immunomodulators of exogenous origin
Immunomodulators of exogenous origin include drugs of bacterial and fungal origin. TO medical use such agents of microbial origin as BCG, pyrogenal, prodigiosan, sodium nucleinate, ribomunil, bronchomunal, etc. are allowed. All of them have the ability to enhance the functional activity of neutrophils and macrophages.
The immunomodulatory role of Mycobacterium tuberculosis has been known for more than half a century. The BCG vaccine currently has no independent significance as an immunomodulator. An exception is the method of immunotherapy for bladder cancer, using vaccine "BCG-Imuron" . The BCG-Imuron vaccine is a live lyophilized bacteria of the BCG-1 vaccine strain. The drug is used as instillation into the bladder. Living mycobacteria, multiplying intracellularly, lead to nonspecific stimulation of the cellular immune response. BCG-Imuron is intended for the prevention of relapses of superficial bladder cancer after surgical removal of the tumor, as well as for the treatment of small bladder tumors that cannot be removed.
Study of the mechanism of the immunomodulatory effect of the BCG vaccine. showed that it is reproduced using the inner layer of the cell wall of Mycobacterium tuberculosis - peptidoglycan, and the active principle in peptidoglycan is muramyl dipeptide, which is part of the peptidoglycan of the cell wall of almost all known gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. However, due to high pyrogenicity and other undesirable side effects, muramyl dipeptide itself turned out to be unsuitable for clinical use. Therefore, the search for its structural analogues began. This is how the drug appeared Lycopid(glucosaminylmuramyl dipeptide), which, along with low pyrogenicity, has higher immunomodulatory potential.
Lykopid has an immunomodulatory effect primarily due to cell activation phagocytic system immunity (neutrophils and macrophages). The latter, by phagocytosis, destroy pathogenic microorganisms and, at the same time, secrete mediators of natural immunity - cytokines (interleukin-1, tumor necrosis factor, colony stimulating factor, gamma interferon), which, affecting a wide range of target cells, cause further development defensive reaction body. Ultimately, Lykopid affects all three main components of immunity: phagocytosis, cellular and humoral immunity, stimulates leukopoiesis and regenerative processes.
The main indications for prescribing licopid: chronic nonspecific lung diseases, both in the acute stage and in remission; acute and chronic purulent-inflammatory processes (postoperative, post-traumatic, wound), trophic ulcers; tuberculosis; acute and chronic viral infections, especially genital and labial herpes, herpetic keratitis and keratouveitis, herpes zoster, cytomegalovirus infection; lesions of the cervix caused by the human papillomavirus; bacterial and candidal vaginitis; urogenital infections.
The advantage of licopid is its ability to be used in pediatrics, including neonatology. Lykopid is used in the treatment of bacterial pneumonia in full-term and premature infants. Likopid is used in the complex treatment of chronic viral hepatitis in children. Since Likopid is able to stimulate the maturation of glucuronyltransferase in the liver of newborns, its effectiveness in conjugative hyperbilirubinemia in the neonatal period is being tested.
Synthetic immunomodulators.
Synthetic immunomodulators are obtained by targeted chemical synthesis. These people have belonged to this group for a long time known drugs like levamisole and diucifon.
Representative of a new generation of synthetic immunomodulators - Polyoxidonium(N-oxidized high molecular weight polyethylene piperosine derivative). The drug has a wide spectrum of action. It stimulates the functional activity of phagocytes, which manifests itself in increased ability phagocytes absorb and digest microbes in the formation active forms oxygen, increasing the migration activity of neutrophils. The overall consequence of the activation of natural immunity factors is an increase in resistance to bacterial and viral infections. Polyoxidonium also increases the functional activity of T- and B-lymphocytes and NK cells. It is also a powerful detoxifier because... has the ability to sorb various toxic substances and remove them from the body. This is due to its ability to reduce the toxicity of a number of drugs.
The drug has shown high effectiveness in all acute and chronic infectious and inflammatory processes of any location and any origin. Its use causes a more rapid cessation of the disease and the disappearance of all pathological manifestations. Due to its immunomodulatory, detoxifying, antioxidant and membrane-stabilizing properties, Polyoxidonium has taken leading positions in urology, gynecology, surgery, pulmonology, allergology and oncology practice. The drug combines well with all antibiotics, antiviral and antifungal agents, with interferons, their inducers, and is included in complex treatment regimens for many infectious diseases.
Polyoxidonium is one of the few immunomodulators recommended for use in acute infectious and allergic processes.
Glutoxim is the first and so far the only representative of a new class of substances - thiopoietins. Glutoxim is a chemically synthesized hexapeptide (bis-(gamma-L-glutamyl)-L-cysteinyl-bis-glycine disodium salt), which is a structural analogue of the natural metabolite - oxidized glutathione. Artificial stabilization of the disulfide bond of oxidized glutathione makes it possible to greatly enhance the physiological effects inherent in natural unmodified oxidized glutathione. Glutoxim activates the antiperoxide enzymes glutathione reductase, glutathione transferase and glutathione peroxidase, which in turn activate intracellular reactions of thiol metabolism, as well as the processes of synthesis of sulfur- and phosphorus-containing high-energy compounds necessary for the normal functioning of intracellular regulatory systems. The operation of the cell in a new redox mode and changes in the dynamics of phosphorylation of key blocks of signal-transmitting systems and transcription factors, primarily immunocompetent cells, determine the immunomodulatory and systemic cytoprotective effect of the drug.
Special property Glutoxim is its ability to have a differentiated effect on normal (stimulation of proliferation and differentiation) and transformed (induction of apoptosis - genetically programmed cell death) cells. The main immuno-physiological properties of the drug include activation of the phagocytosis system; strengthening of bone marrow hematopoiesis and restoration of peripheral blood neutrophil level, monocytes; increasing the endogenous production of IL-1, IL-6, TNF, INF, erythropoietin, reproducing the effects of IL-2 by inducing the expression of its receptors.
Glutoxim is used as a means of prevention and treatment of secondary immunodeficiency states associated with radiation, chemical and infectious factors; for tumors of any location as a component of antitumor therapy in order to increase the sensitivity of tumor cells to chemotherapy, including the development of partial or complete resistance; for acute and chronic viral hepatitis(B and C) with the elimination of objective signs of chronic virus carriage; to potentiate the therapeutic effects of antibacterial therapy for chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases; for the prevention of postoperative purulent complications; to increase the body's resistance to various pathological influences - infectious agents, chemical and/or physical factors (intoxication, radiation, etc.).
Active component of a new immunomodulator Galavita is a phthalhydroside derivative. Galavit has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Its main pharmacological effects due to the ability to influence the functional and metabolic activity of macrophages. In inflammatory diseases, the drug reversibly inhibits for 6-8 hours the excessive synthesis of tumor necrosis factor, interleukin-1, reactive oxygen species and other proinflammatory cytokines by hyperactivated macrophages, which determine the degree of inflammatory reactions, their cyclicity, as well as the severity of intoxication. Normalization of the regulatory function of macrophages leads to a decrease in the level of autoaggression. In addition to affecting the monocyte-macrophage link, the drug stimulates the microbicidal system of neutrophil granulocytes, enhancing phagocytosis and increasing the body's nonspecific resistance to infectious diseases, as well as antimicrobial protection.
Galavit is used for pathogenetic treatment acute infectious diseases (intestinal infections, hepatitis, erysipelas, purulent meningitis, genitourinary diseases, post-traumatic osteomyelitis, obstructive bronchitis, pneumonia) and chronic inflammatory diseases, including those with an autoimmune component in pathogenesis ( peptic ulcer, nonspecific ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, liver damage of various etiologies, scleroderma, reactive arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, Behçet's syndrome, rheumatism, etc.), secondary immunological deficiency, as well as for correction of immunity in cancer patients in pre- and postoperative period receiving radiation and chemotherapy to prevent postoperative complications.
Synthetic immunomodulators also include most interferon inducers. Interferon inducers They are a heterogeneous family of high- and low-molecular synthetic and natural compounds, united by the ability to induce the formation of the body’s own (endogenous) interferon. Interferon inducers have antiviral, immunomodulatory and other effects characteristic of interferon.
Poludan(a complex of polyadenylic and polyuridic acids) is one of the very first interferon inducers, used since the 70s. Its interferon-inducing activity is low. Poludan is used in the form of eye drops and injections under the conjunctiva for herpetic keratitis and keratoconjunctivitis, as well as in the form of applications for herpetic vulvovaginitis and colpitis.
Amiksin- low molecular weight interferon inducer belonging to the class of fluoreons. Amiksin stimulates the formation of all types of interferons in the body: a, b and g. The maximum level of interferon in the blood is reached approximately 24 hours after taking Amiksin, increasing tens of times compared to its initial values. Important feature Amiksin is a long-term circulation (up to 8 weeks) of therapeutic concentrations of interferon after a course of taking the drug. Significant and prolonged stimulation by Amiksin of the production of endogenous interferon ensures its universally wide range of antiviral activity. Amiksin also stimulates the humoral immune response, increasing the production of IgM and IgG, and restores the T-helper/T-suppressor ratio. Amiksin is used for the prevention of influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections, treatment severe forms influenza, acute and chronic hepatitis B and C, recurrent genital herpes, cytomegalovirus infection, chlamydia, multiple sclerosis.
Neovir- low molecular weight interferon inducer (carboxymethylacridone derivative). Neovir induces high titers of endogenous interferons in the body, especially early interferon alpha. The drug has immunomodulatory, antiviral and antitumor activity. Neovir is used for viral hepatitis B and C, as well as for urethritis, cervicitis, salpingitis of chlamydial etiology, and viral encephalitis.
Cycloferon- a drug similar to neovir (methylglucamine salt of carboxymethylene acridone), a low-molecular-weight interferon inducer. The drug induces the synthesis of early alpha-interferon. In tissues and organs containing lymphoid elements, cycloferon induces high level interferon, which persists for 72 hours. The main interferon-producing cells after the administration of Cycloferon are macrophages, T- and B-lymphocytes. Depending on the initial state activation of one or another part of the immune system occurs. The drug induces high titers of alpha interferon in organs and tissues containing lymphoid elements (spleen, liver, lungs), activates bone marrow stem cells, stimulating the formation of granulocytes. Cycloferon activates T-lymphocytes and natural killer cells, normalizes the balance between subpopulations of T-helpers and T-suppressors. Crosses the blood-brain barrier. Cycloferon is effective against viruses of tick-borne encephalitis, influenza, hepatitis, herpes, cytomegalovirus, human immunodeficiency virus, papilloma virus and other viruses. The drug has been found to be highly effective in the complex therapy of acute and chronic bacterial infections(chlamydia, erysipelas, bronchitis, pneumonia, postoperative complications, genitourinary infections, peptic ulcer) as a component of immunotherapy. Cycloferon is highly effective in rheumatic and systemic diseases connective tissue, suppressing auto immune reactions and providing anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. The immunomodulatory effect of Cycloferon is expressed in the correction immune status the body in immunodeficiency conditions of various origins and autoimmune diseases. Cycloferon is the only interferon inducer available in three forms: cycloferon in solution for injection, cycloferon in tablets and cycloferon liniment, each of which has its own application characteristics.

The body's defenses - immunity, can be either innate or acquired. The first type is stable and full of strength, subject to active hardening of the body and maintaining the right image life. At the same time, we should not forget that the resources of innate immunity are exhaustible. That is, with frequent colds or with serious interventions in the human body, a significant decrease in his strength occurs. This is where immunomodulators for children and adults will be relevant. As for acquired immunity, it works on the principle of memory. That is, when re-infection Due to a previous infection, immune cells inhibit the virus that has entered the body.

Difference between immunomodulators and immunostimulants

Immunomodulators are drugs that are natural or synthetic origin, which can change the amount immune cells in one direction or another. That is, if it is necessary to strengthen the body's defenses, immunostimulants are used - drugs that stimulate the activity of the defenses. If autoimmune processes occur in the body, then there is a need to use immunosuppressive drugs. That is, those drugs that, on the contrary, will suppress the immune system. One way or another, both types of drugs modulate immunity.

Important: immunosuppressants and immunostimulants are in any case immunomodulators. But not every immunomodulator is an immunostimulant.

A natural or synthetic immunostimulant for children or adults is relevant for the following diseases:

• Frequent chronic infections, including ARVI;
• HIV and AIDS.

All types of immunostimulating drugs can be divided into two groups:

• Natural. They contain exclusively natural ingredients, such as extracts and extracts of herbs, etc.;
• Synthetic. They consist of artificially synthesized components that strengthen and stimulate the functioning of the body's defenses.

Attention! For neoplasms of a benign or malignant nature, as well as for the treatment of allergies, immunomodulators are used. Since stimulating the human immune system, in these cases it can lead to the opposite effect and worsen the course of the disease.

Types of immunostimulants

All immunostimulants for children and adults can also be divided into two types:

• Potent. They have a dramatic effect, but at the same time provoke a lot of adverse reactions. Most often they are prescribed for complex conditions such as oncology, HIV, herpes virus, etc.
• Mild drugs. Can be prescribed even to children from 6 months. Such medications reduce symptoms and help the body fight viruses. Such remedies can be taken as preventative during seasonal illness or as therapeutic in case of established infection.

List of children's immunostimulant drugs

The list of immunostimulant drugs given below contains the names of drugs that can be purchased today in Russian pharmacies without a prescription. However, before using any of them, it is still advisable to consult with your doctor. Especially if you plan to use immunomodulators for children over 3 years old. A complete list of children's drugs that work on active strengthening The body's defenses look like this:

• Anaferon for children. Interferon-based drug. The drug actively fights not only acute respiratory infections, influenza, ARVI or bronchitis, but is also used in complex therapy in the treatment of urogenital infections, viral infections such as herpes, etc. Anaferon can be taken by pregnant women, but only from the 2nd trimester.
• Viferon. Combined medicinal product, which is based on interferon. Viferon has proven itself in treatment colds, viral infections, influenza and pathologies respiratory system, including bronchial asthma. In addition, the use of this immunomodulator for children is relevant when renal pathologies. The drug is prescribed to children from 1 year of age in the form of an ointment or gel.
• Amiksin. A drug that powerfully synthesizes interferon, due to which the body’s defenses begin to work harder. In addition to using the drug in the treatment of standard colds, Amiksin is also prescribed for viral hepatitis A, B, C, tuberculosis and diseases of the respiratory system in adults. The drug is prescribed to children from 7 years of age at a dosage of 1 tablet once a day. The course of treatment is 3 days. The use of Amiksin is contraindicated for pregnant and lactating women.

Important: Use of the drug in more early age has a destructive effect on developing immunity.

• IRS. When considering immunostimulants for children, this drug is included in the list of drugs, which at the same time works as antibacterial drug, and as an immunostimulant. IRS-19 actively stimulates the work of nonspecific and specific immunity, and therefore is often used in the treatment of the respiratory system, for various viral infections and acute respiratory infections. The drug is prescribed both as a preventative and as a treatment. The medicine in the form of a spray can be prescribed for the treatment of children from 3 months. From this age until three years, the product is injected once a day into each nostril. Children over 3 years old are prescribed one injection into each nasal passage 2-4 times a day. The course of therapy is 1-2 weeks.
• Aflubin. The drug is used for adenoviral infections and influenza, for acute respiratory viral infections and acute respiratory infections, as well as for rheumatic and inflammatory processes. All components of the drug have an immunostimulating, detoxifying, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effect. Aflubin can be prescribed to babies up to one year old. Here the dosage is 1 drop 4 or 5 times a day. Children from 1 to 12 years old are prescribed 5 drops 7 times a day. The course of therapy is 5-10 days.
• Ergoferon. A drug that is actively used for influenza and ARVI, for acute respiratory infections and adenocarcinoma viral infection, for tuberculosis and pseudotuberculosis. In addition, Ergoferon is prescribed for the treatment of intestinal infections, tick-borne encephalitis, rotavirus infection, meningococcal infection etc. Children aged 6 months to 6 years are advised to take 1 tablet of the drug 1-2 times a day. The tablet must first be diluted in boiled, cooled water (1 tbsp). Children aged 6 years and older are prescribed 1 tablet of Ergoferon 3 times a day. The course of treatment is 20-30 days.
• Thymogen. The drug for children is available in the form of a spray. Its active components normalize and enhance the body's defenses by activating humoral and cellular immunity. Thymogen regenerates tissues, improves metabolic processes in cells. Children over the age of 1 year are prescribed the drug 1 injection into each nostril once a day. The course of therapy is 7-10 days.

• Lysobacter. To a greater extent, the drug is a natural antiseptic, but it also has a weak immunostimulating effect. The use of Lysobact in the treatment of purulent and inflammatory processes is indicated infectious nature ENT organs. Children are prescribed 1 tablet three times a day at the age of 3-7 years. Children over 7 years old are prescribed 1 tablet 3-4 times a day. The course of therapy is a week.

Whatever children's immunostimulants you choose for your baby, it is advisable to first consult with family doctor and give the baby an accurate diagnosis. It is quite possible that the baby requires complex treatment, and not just the use of immunostimulating drugs.

Immunomodulators include drugs that directly affect the immune system and can correct its activity. It is possible to raise immune parameters only to the extent of physiological parameters considered normal for human body. In the presented list rating the best immunomodulators included drugs that effectively enhance immune responses.

Medicines are used to treat indolent infectious and allergic diseases and a weakened state of the body. Such remedies are especially relevant in the off-season in autumn and spring, when cold, damp weather contributes to an increase in colds.

It is better to take care of your health in advance and take preventive measures yourself to remain a healthy, productive person.

The list is based on positive feedback people who have undergone prevention or treatment with the means listed below.

Rating of the best immunomodulators - list of drugs

1. Interferon (Sotex PharmFirm, Russia). The most popular endogenous immunostimulating agent. Increases resistance healthy cells to pathogenic viruses. Has high biological activity. The main use is the prevention of influenza and ARVI. The solution is instilled into the nasal passages or sprayed. High efficiency, safety and affordable price put interferon first in the ranking of immunomodulators.

• Bottle of solution 1000 IU/ml 5 ml - 115 rub.

2. Echinacea-Vilar (Pharm center VILAR CJSC, RF). Juice and grass purple echinacea on the basis of which the medicine is made is deservedly considered one of the best natural immunomodulators. Stimulates cellular immunity, improves immune status.

It is used to increase the body's protective function in case of frequently recurring inflammatory diseases and for immunostimulation. Used for internal use in the form of drops diluted with big amount water.

• A bottle of juice with alcohol content 50 ml - 114 RUR.

3. Grippferon (Firn M, Russia). Active substance interferon alpha-2b. A powerful prophylactic drug to prevent influenza and ARVI. Stops the progression of the disease when taken in a timely manner initial stage its development. Guaranteed protection against colds by 96%.

It is successfully used for prevention, as well as during epidemics in large groups. After administration, after a short period of time, there is a withdrawal inflammatory symptoms: runny nose, painful sensations in the oropharynx, normalization of body temperature.

• Nasal drops 10,000 IU/ml 10 ml - 260 rub.

4. Arbidol (Pharmstandard, Tomsk). Active ingredient umifenovir. Pronounced immunomodulator antiviral action. Increases the body's defenses against various types of infections, reduces the risk of developing secondary infections and complications, and increases immunological parameters to normal. Area of ​​application: prevention and treatment of influenza, bronchitis, pneumonia, infectious diseases caused by the herpes simplex virus.

• Cost of tab. 50 mg, 20 pcs. - 168 rub.

5. Immunal (Lek, Slovenia). Natural remedy based echinacea herb juice. Has a pronounced immunostimulating effect. Suppresses the growth of pathogenic bacteria, including influenza and herpes viruses. Used to strengthen the immune system to prevent ARVI and increase the body's resistance to long-term use antibiotics and other conditions associated with immune deficiency.

Regular Echinacea tincture is much cheaper in price than Immunal, but many prefer the more convenient tablet form and are willing to pay more for convenient use. Thanks to natural composition and reasonable price, the drug deservedly took fifth place in the ranking.

• Cost of tab. 80 mg 20 pieces - 250 rubles.

6. Ribomunil (Pierre Fabre Medicine, France). It is included in the rating of the best immunomodulators with a high degree of safety - it is approved for use in children from the age of six months. Active ingredient bacterial ribosomes increase the body's immunity to pathogenic infections.

Used as preventive measures to reduce the risk of ENT diseases and diseases caused by respiratory tract infections. Recommended for patients prone to frequent colds with repeated relapses, as well as elderly people.

• Price of tablets 0.75 mg, 4 pcs. - 390 rubles.

7. Derinat (Federal Law Immunolex, Russian Federation). A strong, safe modeling agent. Active substance sodium deoxyribonucleate. Approved for use by adults and children from the first day of life. The medicine stimulates different parts of the defense system.

Promotes the development of resistance to microbial, fungal and viral infections. Enhances the physiological regeneration of tissues and organs, activates the immune response to bacterial antigens.

• Price of a bottle of 0.25% 10 ml - 254 rub.

8. Anaferon (Materia Medica, Russia). Medicine with homeopathic composition immunomodulating effect. Area of ​​application: prevention and treatment of acute respiratory viral infections, influenza and diseases caused by the herpes virus. The drug is popular among people who resort to homeopathy.

The undoubted advantage of Anaferon is the absence of contraindications for use, except individual intolerance components in the composition. Approved for use by adults over 18 years of age. “Anaferon for children” is also produced for persons no older than eighteen years of age.

• Tablets 20 pieces - 194 rub.

9. Immunorm Teva (Israel). Medicine with plant composition based echinacea purpurea. Activates immunity at the cellular level. Has anti-inflammatory properties. Used as a preventative measure for those with a tendency to colds characterized by frequent relapses.

• Cost of tablets 100 mg 20 pcs. - 172 rubles.

10. Stimmunal (Evalar, Russia). Another drug included in the rating of the best immunomodulators to enhance protective functions body. The recipe includes Echinacea purpurea extract And ascorbic acid . Strengthens immune reactions, strengthens weakened cells, removes oxygen radicals, and prevents allergies.

• Price tab. 500 milligrams 20 pieces - 168 rubles.

Some medications have serious restrictions on their use, it is possible allergic reactions And side effects. When choosing a medication, be sure to consult your doctor.

Four drugs out of ten presented in the rating contain echinacea extract. This suggests that people in most cases prefer natural, inexpensive and safe means with a low percentage of contraindications.

In the process of choosing a specific remedy, you should pay attention to the list and main features of disorders occurring in the body. Maximum effectiveness can be achieved during the period of exacerbation of pathology. Therapy, depending on the case, lasts from 1 to 10 months. Using acceptable doses of the drug and following the prescribed stages of treatment will allow stimulants to reveal the full range of their beneficial effects.

So which immunomodulators are best for a child? Let's look at the list of tools and their characteristics.

• "Tsitovir-3" is an immunomodulatory drug of a combined type of action. It affects cellular immunity, has interferogenic properties and improves the body's resistance to infections. The complex goes active substances, which have both anti-inflammatory and immunostimulating effects. When used, it is possible to get rid of flu and colds in a short time. The release form for children is powder and syrup; they are given to babies from the age of one year. Upon reaching 6 years of age, capsules can also be given.
• “Arbidol” is used both for preventive purposes and for the complex treatment of viral infections. It is prohibited for use by children under 3 years of age. The course of treatment should be from 5 to 7 days.
• "Cycloferon" is an immunomodulatory drug with antiviral properties. Capable of synthesizing interferons. Characterized by a wide spectrum of action. Prescribed to children from 4 years of age.
• "Kagocel" - the presented drug is part of the group of interferon inducers. Can be effectively used for prevention against infections herpetic type. Can be prescribed to children aged 1 year and older.
• "Ingavirin" is a drug that can reduce the symptoms of the disease and speed up the recovery process. Reduces temperature and also relieves intoxication and catarrhal symptoms.

The presented list of immunostimulants for children is characterized by high quality manufacturing. “Citovir-3” is definitely worth highlighting, since this drug has complex impact, while other drugs only allow you to remove symptoms and alleviate the course of the disease. In any case, a good pediatrician should prescribe immunomodulators; only he can save you from the wrong choice.

"Tsitovir-3" is ideal, as it can be used for prevention and treatment from the first year of birth. It triggers the normal functioning of enzyme systems and biosynthetic processes, and also allows you to quickly activate the body’s nonspecific resistance. It is the best immunostimulant for young children aged 2-3 years. The variety of release forms allows you to accurately choose the right dosage.

It is better to stop the development of a viral infection at an early stage than to fight an already spreading disease. For this purpose, children should be given drugs from the presented group in advance, before the expected outbreak of an acute respiratory viral infection or other epidemic. viral pathologies. Most often, such periods fall in the winter season. Monitor your children and approach the process of strengthening their immune system in a timely manner.