Immunostimulants. Use of immunostimulants for children

Drugs that stimulate immune processes (immunostimulants) are used for immunodeficiency conditions, chronic, indolent infections, as well as for some cancers.

Immunodeficiency– this is a violation of the structure and function of any part of the integral immune system, the body’s loss of the ability to resist any infections and restore damage to its organs. In addition, with immunodeficiency, the process of renewal of the body slows down or even stops. The basis of the hereditary immunodeficiency state ( primary immunological deficiency) are genetically determined defects in cells of the immune system. At the same time, acquired immunodeficiency ( secondary immunological deficiency) is the result of the influence of environmental factors on the cells of the immune system. The most extensively studied factors for acquired immunodeficiency include radiation, pharmacological agents, and human acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Classification of immunostimulants.

1. Synthetic: LEVAMISOL (Dekaris), DIBAZOL, POLYOXIDONIUM.

2. Endogenous and their synthetic analogues:

• Preparations of thymus, red bone marrow, spleen and their synthetic analogues: THYMALIN, THIMOGEN, TACTIVIN, IMUNOFAN, MYELOPID, SPLENIN.
• Immunoglobulins: human polyvalent immunoglobulin (INTRAGLOBIN).
• Interferons: human immune interferon-gamma, recombinant interferon gamma (GAMMAFERON, IMUKIN).

3. Preparations of microbial origin and their synthetic analogues: PRODIGIOSAN, RIBOMUNIL, IMUDON, LYKOPID.

4. Herbal preparations.

1. Synthetic drugs.

LEVAMIZOLE is an imidazole derivative used as an anthelmintic and immunomodulatory agent. The drug regulates the differentiation of T-lymphocytes. Levamisole increases the response of T lymphocytes to antigens.

POLYOXIDONIUM is a synthetic water-soluble polymer compound. The drug has an immunostimulating and detoxifying effect, increases the body's immune resistance against local and generalized infections. Polyoxidonium activates all natural resistance factors: cells of the monocyte-macrophage system, neutrophils and natural killer cells, increasing their functional activity with initially reduced levels.

DIBAZOL. Immunostimulating activity is associated with the proliferation of mature T - and B-lymphocytes.

2.Polypeptides of endogenous origin and their analogues.

2.1. TIMALIN and TACTIVIN are a complex of polypeptide fractions from the thymus gland (thymus gland) of cattle. The drugs restore the number and function of T-lymphocytes, normalize the ratio of T- and B-lymphocytes and cellular immune responses, and enhance phagocytosis.

Indications for the use of drugs: complex therapy of diseases accompanied by a decrease in cellular immunity - acute and chronic purulent and inflammatory processes, burn disease (a set of dysfunctions of various organs and systems resulting from extensive burns), trophic ulcers, suppression of hematopoiesis and immunity after radiation and chemotherapy .

MYELOPID is obtained from a culture of bone marrow cells of mammals (calves, pigs). The mechanism of action of the drug is associated with stimulation of proliferation and functional activity of B and T cells. Myelopid is used in the complex treatment of infectious complications after surgery, trauma, osteomyelitis, nonspecific pulmonary diseases, and chronic pyoderma.

IMUNOFAN is a synthetic hexapeptide. The drug stimulates the formation of interleukin-2 and has a regulatory effect on the production of immune mediators (inflammatory) and immunoglobulins. Used in the treatment of immunodeficiency conditions.

2.2. Immunoglobulins.

Immunoglobulins are a completely unique class of immune molecules that neutralize most infectious pathogens and toxins in our body. The fundamental feature of immunoglobulins is their absolute specificity. This means that to neutralize each type of bacteria, viruses and toxins, the body produces its own immunoglobulins, unique in structure. Immunoglobulins (gamma globulins) are purified and concentrated preparations of the serum protein fraction containing high titers of antibodies. An important condition for the effective use of serums and gamma globulins for the treatment and prevention of infectious diseases is their administration as early as possible from the moment of illness or infection.

2.3. Interferons.

These are species-specific proteins produced by the cells of vertebrates in response to the action of causative agents. Interferon preparations are classified according to the type of active component into alpha, beta and gamma, according to the method of preparation into:

a) natural: INTERFERON ALPHA, INTERFERON BETA;

b) recombinant: INTERFERON ALPHA-2a, INTERFERON ALPHA-2b, INTERFERON BETA-lb.

Interferons have antiviral, antitumor and immunomodulatory effects. As antiviral agents, interferon preparations are most active in the treatment of herpetic eye diseases (topically in the form of drops, subconjunctivally), herpes simplex localized on the skin, mucous membranes and genitals, herpes zoster (topically in the form of an ointment), acute and chronic viral hepatitis B and C (parenteral, rectal in suppositories), in the treatment and prevention of influenza and acute respiratory viral infections (intranasal in the form of drops).

In case of HIV infection, recombinant interferon preparations normalize immunological parameters and reduce the severity of the disease in more than 50% of cases.

3 . Preparations of microbial origin and their analogues.

Immunostimulants of microbial origin are:

Purified bacterial lysates (BRONCHOMUNAL, IMUDON);

Bacterial ribosomes and their combinations with membrane fractions (RIBOMUNIL);

Lipopolysaccharide complexes (PRODIGIOZAN);

Bacterial cell membrane fractions (LICOPID).

BRONCHOMUNAL and IMUDON are lyophilized lysates of bacteria that most often cause respiratory tract infections. The drugs stimulate humoral and cellular immunity. Increases the number and activity of T-lymphocytes (T-helpers), natural killer cells, increases the concentration of IgA, IgG and IgM in the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract. Used for infectious diseases of the respiratory tract resistant to antibiotic therapy.

RIBOMUNIL is a complex of the most common pathogens of infections of the ENT organs and respiratory tract (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes, Haemophilus influenzae). Stimulates cellular and humoral immunity. The ribosomes included in the drug contain antigens identical to the surface antigens of bacteria and cause the formation of specific antibodies to these pathogens in the body. Ribomunil is used for recurrent infections of the respiratory tract (chronic bronchitis, tracheitis, pneumonia) and ENT organs (otitis media, rhinitis, sinusitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, etc.).

PRODIGIOSAN is a high-polymer lipopolysaccharide complex isolated from the microorganism Bac. prodigiosum. The drug enhances nonspecific and specific resistance of the body, primarily stimulates B-lymphocytes, increasing their proliferation and differentiation into plasma cells that produce antibodies. Activates phagocytosis and killer activity of macrophages. Enhances the production of humoral immunity factors - interferons, lysozyme, especially when administered locally in inhalations. Used in complex therapy of diseases accompanied by a decrease in immunological reactivity: in chronic inflammatory processes, in the postoperative period, in the treatment of chronic diseases with antibiotics, in slow-healing wounds, radiation therapy.

LIKOPID in chemical structure is an analogue of a product of microbial origin - a semi-synthetic dipeptide - the main structural component of the bacterial cell wall. Has an immunomodulatory effect.

4. Herbal preparations.

IMMUNAL and other drugs ECHINACEA . Immunal is a stimulant of nonspecific immunity. The juice of Echinacea purpurea, which is part of Immunal, contains active substances of a polysaccharide nature that stimulate bone marrow hematopoiesis and also increase the activity of phagocytes. Indications: prevention of colds and flu; weakening of the functional state of the immune system caused by various factors (exposure to ultraviolet rays, chemotherapy drugs); long-term antibiotic therapy; chronic inflammatory diseases. Echinacea tinctures and extracts, juice and syrup are also used.

Side effects of immunostimulants:

Immunomodulators of synthetic origin - allergic reactions, pain at the injection site (for injectable drugs)

Thymus preparations – allergic reactions; bone marrow preparations – pain at the injection site, dizziness, nausea, increased body temperature.

Immunoglobulins - allergic reactions, increased or decreased blood pressure, increased body temperature, nausea, etc. With slow infusion, many patients tolerate these drugs well.

Interferons have adverse drug reactions of varying severity and frequency, which may vary depending on the drug. In general, interferons (injectable forms) are not well tolerated by everyone and may be accompanied by a flu-like syndrome, allergic reactions, etc.

Bacterial immunomodulators – allergic reactions, nausea, diarrhea.

Plant immunomodulators - allergic reactions (Quincke's edema), skin rash, bronchospasm, lowering blood pressure.

Contraindications for immunostimulants

Autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis;
- blood diseases;
- allergies;
- bronchial asthma;
- pregnancy;
- age up to 12 years.

IV. Consolidation.

1. What is the main function of the human immune system?

2. What is an allergy?

3. What are the different types of allergic reactions?

4. How are antiallergic drugs classified?

5. What is the primary use of first generation drugs? II generation? III generation?

6. What drugs are classified as mast cell membrane stabilizers?

7. What are mast cell membrane stabilizers used for?

8. What are the main side effects of antiallergic drugs?

9. What are the measures to help with anaphylactic shock?

10. What drugs are called immunotropic?

11. How are they classified?

12. What are the indications for the use of immunosuppressants?

13. How are immunostimulants classified?

14. What are the indications for use of representatives of each subgroup?

15. Name the side effects of using immunostimulants and contraindications to their use.

V. Summing up.

The teacher summarizes the topic, evaluates the students’ activities, and draws conclusions about whether the goals of the lesson have been achieved.

VI. Homework assignment.

Substances that stimulate nonspecific resistance of the body (NRO) and immunity (humoral and cellular immune reactions). In the literature, the term immunomodulators is often used as a synonym for the term immunostimulants, although today these terms have ceased to be synonymous.

The main cause of most infectious diseases can be called a weak human immune system, incapable of adequately resisting the attack of foreign microorganisms. This human condition is called immunodeficiency. The problem of immunodeficiency can be solved; for this purpose, various immunostimulants are released onto the market. There are already so many of them that even experts sometimes get confused. And everyone needs to have an idea of ​​what immunostimulants are.

Immunostimulants general characteristics

Designed to enhance immune response to a weakened immune system. In other words, drugs that increase and strengthen immunity.

Quite often in the press there is a mention of an immunomodulator. Usually the concepts of immunostimulants are considered identical. Meanwhile, this is not entirely true. Immunomodulators are a more general definition of all immune drugs that bring a person into an adequate state. The system can be either weak (the so-called immunodeficiency state) or hyperactive (the so-called autoimmune state). In the latter case, it is suppressed to normal levels. Immunosuppressants are used to suppress. And to increase and strengthen immunity, immunostimulants are taken. This is where the difference lies.

Immunomodulators are a group of pharmacological drugs that activate the body’s immunological defense at the cellular or humoral level. These drugs stimulate the immune system and increase the body's nonspecific resistance.

main organs of the human immune system

Immunity is a unique system of the human body that is capable of destroying foreign substances and needs proper correction. Normally, immunocompetent cells are produced in response to the introduction of pathogenic biological agents into the body - viruses, microbes and other infectious agents. Immunodeficiency states are characterized by decreased production of these cells and are characterized by frequent morbidity. Immunomodulators are special drugs, united by a common name and a similar mechanism of action, used to prevent various ailments and strengthen the immune system.

Currently, the pharmacological industry produces a huge number of products that have immunostimulating, immunomodulating, immunocorrective and immunosuppressive effects. They are freely sold in pharmacy chains. Most of them have side effects and have a negative impact on the body. Before purchasing such medications, you should consult your doctor.

• Immunostimulants strengthen the human immune system, ensure more efficient functioning of the immune system and provoke the production of protective cellular components. Immunostimulants are harmless for individuals who do not have immune system disorders or exacerbations of chronic pathologies.
• Immunomodulators correct the balance of immunocompetent cells in autoimmune diseases and balance all components of the immune system, suppressing or increasing their activity.
• Immunocorrectors have an effect only on certain structures of the immune system, normalizing their activity.
• Immunosuppressants suppress the production of immunity in cases where its hyperactivity causes harm to the human body.

Self-medication and inadequate medication use can lead to the development of autoimmune pathology, in which the body begins to perceive its own cells as foreign and fight them. Immunostimulants should be taken according to strict indications and as prescribed by the attending physician. This is especially true for children, because their immune system is fully formed only by the age of 14.

But in some cases, you simply cannot do without taking drugs from this group. In severe diseases with a high risk of developing serious complications, taking immunostimulants is justified even in children and pregnant women. Most immunomodulators are low-toxic and quite effective.

Use of immunostimulants

Preliminary immunocorrection is aimed at eliminating the underlying pathology without the use of basic therapy drugs. It is prescribed to persons with diseases of the kidneys, digestive system, rheumatism, and in preparation for surgical interventions.

Diseases for which immunostimulants are used:

1. Congenital immunodeficiency,
2. Malignant neoplasms,
3. Inflammation of viral and bacterial etiology,
4. Mycoses and protozooses,
5. Helminthiasis,
6. Kidney and liver pathology,
7. Endocrinopathology – diabetes mellitus and other metabolic disorders,
8. Immunosuppression due to the use of certain medications - cytostatics, glucocorticosteroids, NSAIDs, antibiotics, antidepressants, anticoagulants,
9. Immunodeficiency caused by ionizing radiation, excessive alcohol intake, severe stress,
10. Allergy,
11. Conditions after transplantation,
12. Secondary post-traumatic and post-intoxication immunodeficiency states.

The presence of signs of immune deficiency is an absolute indication for the use of immunostimulants in children. Only a pediatrician can choose the best immunomodulator for children.

People who are most often prescribed immunomodulators:

• Children with weak immune systems
• Elderly people with weakened immune systems,
• People with a busy lifestyle.

Treatment with immunomodulators should be under the supervision of a physician and an immunological blood test.

Classification

The list of modern immunomodulators today is very large. Depending on their origin, immunostimulants are distinguished:

Independent use of immunostimulants is rarely justified. They are usually used as an adjunct to the main treatment of pathology. The choice of drug is determined by the characteristics of immunological disorders in the patient’s body. The effectiveness of drugs is considered to be maximum during exacerbation of the pathology. The duration of therapy usually varies from 1 to 9 months. The use of adequate doses of medication and proper adherence to the treatment regimen allows immunostimulants to fully realize their therapeutic effects.

Some probiotics, cytostatics, hormones, vitamins, antibacterial drugs, and immunoglobulins also have an immunomodulatory effect.

Synthetic immunostimulants

Synthetic adaptogens have an immunostimulating effect on the body and increase its resistance to adverse factors. The main representatives of this group are “Dibazol” and “Bemitil”. Due to their pronounced immunostimulating activity, the drugs have an antiasthenic effect and help the body quickly recover after prolonged exposure to extreme conditions.

For frequent and prolonged infections, Dibazol is combined with Levamisole or Decamevit for preventive and therapeutic purposes.

Endogenous immunostimulants

This group includes preparations of the thymus, red bone marrow and placenta.

Thymic peptides are produced by thymus cells and regulate the functioning of the immune system. They change the functions of T-lymphocytes and restore the balance of their subpopulations. After the use of endogenous immunostimulants, the number of cells in the blood is normalized, which indicates their pronounced immunomodulatory effect. Endogenous immunostimulants enhance the production of interferons and increase the activity of immunocompetent cells.

• "Timalin" has an immunomodulatory effect, activates regeneration and repair processes. It stimulates cellular immunity and phagocytosis, normalizes the number of lymphocytes, increases the secretion of interferons, and restores immunological reactivity. This drug is used to treat immunodeficiency conditions that have developed against the background of acute and chronic infections and destructive processes.
• "Imunofan"– a drug widely used in cases where the human immune system cannot independently resist the disease and requires pharmacological support. It stimulates the immune system, removes toxins and free radicals from the body, and has a hepatoprotective effect.

Interferons

Interferons increase the nonspecific resistance of the human body and protect it from viral, bacterial or other antigenic attacks. The most effective drugs that have a similar effect are "Cycloferon", "Viferon", "Anaferon", "Arbidol". They contain synthesized proteins that push the body to produce its own interferons.

Naturally occurring drugs include leukocyte human interferon.

Long-term use of drugs in this group minimizes their effectiveness and suppresses a person’s own immunity, which ceases to function actively. Inadequate and too long-term use of them has a negative impact on the immunity of adults and children.

In combination with other medications, interferons are prescribed to patients with viral infections, laryngeal papillomatosis, and cancer. They are used intranasally, orally, intramuscularly and intravenously.

Preparations of microbial origin

Medicines in this group have a direct effect on the monocyte-macrophage system. Activated blood cells begin to produce cytokines, which trigger innate and acquired immune responses. The main task of these drugs is to remove pathogenic microbes from the body.

Plant adaptogens

Herbal adaptogens include extracts of echinacea, eleutherococcus, ginseng, and lemongrass. These are “mild” immunostimulants, widely used in clinical practice. Drugs from this group are prescribed to patients with immunodeficiency without a preliminary immunological examination. Adaptogens trigger the work of enzyme systems and biosynthetic processes, and activate the body’s nonspecific resistance.

The use of plant adaptogens for prophylactic purposes reduces the incidence of acute respiratory viral infections and, resists the development of radiation sickness, weakens the toxic effect of cytostatics.

To prevent a number of diseases, as well as for a speedy recovery, patients are recommended to drink ginger tea or cinnamon tea daily, and take black peppercorns.

Video: about immunity – School of Dr. Komarovsky

Immunostimulants It is customary to call those substances that stimulate the body’s nonspecific resistance and person. Very often the terms " immunostimulant " And " immunomodulator " are used as synonyms. However, there is still a certain difference between such drugs.

Types of drugs that affect the immune system

All drugs that in one way or another affect the immune system are usually divided into four types: immunocorrectors , immunomodulators , immunostimulants , immunosuppressants . Application immunomodulators It is advisable in the case of treatment of malfunctions in the immune system, as well as to restore the functions of this system. Such drugs are used for treatment only after prescription by a specialist.

Preparations- immunocorrectors act only on some parts of the immune system, but not on its work as a whole. Means- immunosuppressants , on the contrary, do not stimulate, but suppress its work if its functioning is too active and harms the human body.

Preparations- immunostimulants are not intended for therapy: they only strengthen the human immune system. Under the influence of these drugs, the immune system functions more efficiently.

Immunomodulators have different origins and affect the human immune system depending on its initial state. Experts classify such agents according to their origin, as well as based on the mechanism of their action. If we consider the origin of immunomodulators, they are divided into endogenous , exogenous And chemically clean drugs. The mechanism of action of such drugs is based on the effect on T- , B-system immunity , and also phagocytosis .

How do immunomodulators and immunostimulants work?

The human immune system is a unique body system that can neutralize foreign substances entering the body. antigens . Immunity prevents the harmful effects of pathogens of infectious diseases. Immunomodulators are capable of influencing changes in human immunity.

Immunostimulants act specifically on the functioning of a specific part of the immune system, activating it. And immunomodulators are prescribed in order to balance all components of the immune system, while the activity of some increases and the activity of others decreases.

However, taking these drugs must be strictly dosed, since if the treatment is too long, the body’s own immunity may be less active. If immunostimulants are used for too long without proper supervision by the attending physician, such drugs can negatively affect the immunity of both the child and the adult patient.

Indications for the use of immunomodulators

The main indicator that is taken into account when prescribing immunomodulators is the presence of signs of immune deficiency. This condition is characterized by a very frequent manifestation viral , bacterial , fungal infections that are not affected by traditional methods of therapy.

Before starting treatment, the doctor must determine what kind of immune disorders a person has, as well as how severe these disorders are. If a healthy person is diagnosed with a decrease in a certain immunity parameter, then taking such drugs is not always advisable. In this case, it is important that the patient is examined and consulted by a specialist immunologist.

Often, in parallel with immunomodulators, patients are prescribed vitamin-containing drugs, as well as And microelements . In most cases, sorption therapy is prescribed as an additional method in order to reduce the level of endogenous intoxication.

Immunostimulants and immunomodulators of plant origin

In addition to artificially synthesized drugs, immunomodulators and immunostimulants of plant origin are also actively used. Such drugs naturally and gradually restore the body, without changing the hormonal balance. These preparations are created on the basis of medicinal plants: nettle, chicory, lungwort, yarrow, clover, etc. In addition to medicinal plants, some food plants also have immunostimulating properties

Has very powerful immunostimulant properties echinacea . This is a herbaceous perennial plant, the extract of which is very often used today both in cosmetics and in the manufacture of medicines. Echinacea promotes the formation of red blood cells, it enriches the body selenium , calcium , silicon , vitamins A , WITH , E and other elements no less important for life and strengthening the immune system. In addition, preparations based on Echinacea have antiallergic , diuretic , anti-inflammatory , antibacterial , antivirus influence. Mainly used is a ten percent alcohol tincture of Echinacea, as well as herbal preparations that include this plant. Quite popular preparations are also made based on echinacea. , Immunorm . These remedies have a gentle and beneficial effect on the human immune system. They are prescribed even to children who are already one year old. For preventive purposes, these drugs are recommended to be taken three times
per year, one month at a time, which helps strengthen the resistance of the human body as a whole.

Preparations based on echinacea are used as immunostimulants for children. However, it is very important to take into account that immunostimulants of plant origin cannot be used uncontrolled, since there are certain contraindications that need to be known before use.

In addition to echinacea, a popular natural immunostimulant is the extract Eleutherococcus roots . Adults take 30-40 drops of this plant infusion, and children should count one drop of infusion for one year of life. Today, Eleutherococcus extract is very often used as a means of preventing infection. And cold during the epidemic. Quite often in such cases they also use ginger . Immunomodulators for children are often used in kindergartens, and are also recommended for use at home during epidemics.

Use of immunostimulants for children

It is very important that immunostimulants and immunomodulators for children are used especially carefully. After all, a number of such drugs have clear contraindications, information about which is indicated in the instructions for these drugs. Treatment with such means should not be given to children whose relatives have been diagnosed with , since their exposure can provoke the development of such diseases in a child. Among the diseases that are indicated as contraindications, it should be noted insulin type , , multiple sclerosis , scleroderma , as well as other autoimmune diseases. Most of these diseases are incurable.

But there are also direct indications for the use of such drugs to treat children. Thus, immunostimulants for children are prescribed for some serious illnesses. This flu with complications , severe coldA . Immunomodulators are also used to treat pregnant women with colds, since such drugs have relatively few contraindications.

A very useful and practically harmless immunostimulant that is perfect for children is honey. It contains a very large number of useful essential vitamins And microelements Moreover, children consume such a tasty medicinal product with pleasure. Even small children who have not yet turned one year old can be treated with honey. The only contraindication in this case is allergic reactions for honey

In order for a child’s immune system to function at full strength, it is necessary to regularly replenish the supply of certain microelements. It is very important to constantly consume foods containing zinc: peas, carrots, oats, red bell peppers, buckwheat. Garlic is a very strong immunostimulant. However, it is important to note that children under three years of age can only be given boiled garlic.

But still, immunostimulant drugs, as well as drugs of this type that are of plant origin, are not ordinary vitamins. Therefore, if it is necessary to use this type of drug to strengthen the immunity of children, you should still consult with specialists.

Immunomodulators for the treatment of herpes

is a disease in the treatment of which some immunomodulators are also actively used. Drugs belonging to the group of interferons and used for the treatment of herpes are, . The drug amixin has a pronounced effect on viruses and stimulates the body's production of interferons.

Recurrent herpes infections are often treated with medications Viferon , Gyaferon , leukinferon , which contain recombined human interferons. These immunostimulants for herpes effectively support the body's antiviral resistance.

In addition, other drugs of this type are used for herpes. An immunomodulator drug stimulates the formation in the body and activates its antioxidant system.

For young children with herpetic immunodeficiencies, treatment with the drug Lykopid is indicated. The doctor prescribes a treatment regimen for this drug on an individual basis.

In addition, for herpes in children and adults, drugs are used as immunostimulants, Tamerite , epithelamin , and a number of other 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 different functions to some extent (sometimes even several), so 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 uncontrolled for a long time, then when they are canceled, the person’s real immunity will be zero and there will be no way to fight infections without these drugs.

If medications 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 defenses 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 are 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 the symptoms of the disease, get rid of the causative agent of the disease and maintain the body during the 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 of various groups in combination with other drugs (various stimulants, drugs with 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 components 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;
• elderly 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