Interferon - will protect against diseases of the new century? Interferons and their role in clinical medicine. From the treatment of influenza to the treatment of complex viral and bacterial infections The difference between interferon alpha and gamma

The most important pro-inflammatory cytokine is IFN-y, which is produced by activated T-lymphocytes and activated NK. The production of IFN-y by T-lymphocytes is triggered by recognition of the antigenic peptide complex with its own histocompatibility molecules (MHC 1 or 2 class) by the corresponding TCR and is regulated by other cytokines: a typical stimulator - IL-2 and a typical inhibitor - IL-10. The level of production of IFN-y during the immune response is largely determined by the dominance of a certain subpopulation: TH1 or TH2.

IFN-y products Natural killers are triggered by their interaction with target cells (tumor, infected with viruses) and enhanced by some cytokines, in particular IL-12, which is a product of activated macrophages or T-lymphocytes.

Among the functions of IFN-y one of the most important is the activation of the effector functions of macrophages: their microbicidal and cytotoxicity, their production of cytokines, superoxide and nitroxide radicals, prostaglandins.

IFN-y increases expression of MHC class 1 and class 2 antigens on different cells, it can even induce the expression of these molecules on those cells that do not express them constitutively. Thus, IFN-y increases the efficiency of antigen presentation and promotes their recognition by T-lymphocytes.

In cases enough early production of IFN-y natural killers, it is involved in ensuring strong adhesion of lymphocytes to endothelial cells in postcapillary veins before they leave the vessels: it increases the expression of ICAM-1 adhesion molecules on endothelial cells, which leads to increased adhesion of lymphocytes expressing the corresponding ligand - LFA-1 integrin. In addition, IFN-y increases the permeability of the endothelium for macromolecules. In combination with TNF-a, it induces the production of chemokines of the RANTES family.

Preincubation with IFN-y sensitizes cells to TNF-a induction. In addition, it may, as a synergist of TNF-a, be involved in the development of cachexia syndrome.

Described very conflicting effects of IFN-y for lymphocytes. For most cells, it is a mild inhibitor of proliferation, and it stimulates mitogen-induced proliferation of T-lymphocytes; however, it slightly suppresses the activating effect of IL-2 and IL-4 on TH2 proliferation, but not TH1. IFN-y increases the functional activity of cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CD8), the nature of the effect on the functions of T-helpers depends on the level of expression of the corresponding receptors. Even the induction of apoptosis of T- and B-lymphocytes under the influence of IFN-y has been described.

What are interferons and their mechanism of action

Interferons are proteins that are produced by body cells when viruses are introduced into them. Interferons themselves do not suppress the development of viruses, but they trigger a complex mechanism of biological processes in cells, as a result of which genes encoding the synthesis of many proteins that provide antiviral action, as well as other effects caused by interferons, are activated. In this case, the synthesis of proteins of viruses is suppressed and the virus cannot multiply.

The formation of interferon can be stimulated not only by viruses, but also, for example, by bacterial toxins, so interferon is also effective in certain bacterial infections. The anti-infectious effect of interferons also extends to other intracellular infections, for example, chlamydia, mycoplasmas Mycoplasma: do not neglect hygiene, ureaplasma Ureaplasma: latent course of the disease, cytomegaloviruses.

Interferons are able to stimulate the immune system and suppress cell reproduction. This property allowed them to be used in the treatment of cancer.

Interferons are divided into three types (alpha, beta and gamma), which are produced by different cells. Interferons alpha and beta, despite the differences, have similar functions, so they are combined into type I interferons, or acid-resistant (acid-stable). Interferon-gamma has partially different functions, it is called acid-labile type II interferon.

Interferon alpha is formed in leukocytes after exposure to viruses or other interferon-stimulating agents. It has a pronounced antiviral activity and activates natural killers - leukocytes that kill cells potentially harmful to the body (viruses, bacteria, malignant tumor cells).

Interferon beta is formed in connective tissue cells (fibroblasts), epithelial cells and macrophages (the main cells that carry out cellular immunity, that is, absorb pathogens) after their stimulation, its main function is to suppress viruses.

Interferon gamma is also produced by T-lymphocytes after their stimulation. Its main function is the regulation of immunity, but it also has an antiviral effect.

All interferons are able to suppress the reproduction of cells (for example, a malignant tumor).

Interferon production in the body of healthy and sick people

In healthy people, there is little interferon in the blood serum, but when exposed to viruses or other interferon-inducing agents, interferon begins to be produced quickly and in large quantities. These indicators vary with various conditions and diseases:

acute viral infections, allergic processes, severe neuropsychic stress cause an increase in interferon in the blood serum and a decrease in its production after exposure to interferon-inducing agents by leukocytes. So, with bronchial asthma, urticaria, the level of interferon in blood serum is the higher, the more severe the disease;
chronic viral infections (herpes, hepatitis) and multiple sclerosis are accompanied by a decrease in the amount of interferon, both to the blood serum and formed under the influence of interferon-inducing agents;
autoimmune diseases (systemic scleroderma, systemic lupus erythematosus) are accompanied by suppression of the induced formation of alpha-interferon;
oncological diseases (acute lymphocytic leukemia, malignant tumors) are accompanied by suppression of induced production of interferon gamma;
in the elderly, insufficiency in the production of interferons in one form or another is more common than in young people.

Interferon-based drugs

Changes in the production of interferons can be corrected with drugs containing various types of interferons. There are also drugs that stimulate the body's own interferon production (interferon inducers, such as Kagocel).

Interferon preparations are produced industrially, both from human leukocytes (leukocyte interferon) and from bacterial cells (some strains of Escherichia coli), in the DNA of which, using special biotechnologies (genetic engineering methods), the human interferon gene is inserted. Such interferon is called recombinant. For example, such preparations are produced:

human leukocyte lymphoblastic interferon - velferon;
human leukocyte fibroblast interferon - feron;
recombinant alpha-interferons - viferon Viferon: effective help in the attack of viruses, influenzaferon, roferon; they may include mixtures of different subtypes of alpha interferon, for example, interferon alpha-2a (infagel), interferon alpha-2b (grippferon);
recombinant beta-interferons - betaferon;
recombinant gamma-interferons - gammaferon, ingaron.

Interferons and their effects on the human body are still being studied. With parenteral (subcutaneous, intramuscular, intravenous) administration, they give a number of side effects, which are almost absent, for example, when they are applied topically.

Medical reference books

Information

Immunologist

Handbook of Clinical Immunology for Practitioners

Factors of adaptive immunity»> Biological essence of the mechanism of antigenic presentation

gamma interferon preparations

Composition and form of release. Ingaron is a lyophilized powder for the preparation of a solution for intramuscular and subcutaneous administration in vials according to

1, 5, 10 or 20 pcs. packaged.

1 bottle of Ingaron contains: interferon gamma 100 thousand IU, 500 thousand IU, 1 million IU or 2 million IU.

Ingaron lyophilized powder for solution for intranasal administration in vials of 1 or 5 pcs. in a package, complete with water for injection 5 ml in a vial or ampoule.

Active substance. Interferon-gamma / Interferon-gamma.

Properties. Ingaron is an antiviral, immunostimulating and immunomodulatory drug. Ingaron is identical to human immune gamma-type interferon. Contains as an active substance recombinant human gamma interferon, which consists of 144 amino acid residues, devoid of the first three amino acid residues (Cys-Tyr-Cys), replaced by Met. Molecular weight - 16.9 kDa. The technology for obtaining Ingaron (recombinant human immune gamma-type interferon) consists in cultivating the E. coli producing strain, followed by isolation and purification by denaturation, renaturation and chromatography. The antiviral activity of Ingaron is IU / mg when using a culture of fibroblast cells of the musculoskeletal tissue of human embryos of diploid transplantable lines infected with the vesicular stomatitis virus.

Interferon-gamma inhibits the B-cell response to interleukin-4, suppresses the production of IgE and the expression of the CD23 antigen. It is an inducer of apoptosis of differentiated B cells, giving rise to autoreactive clones. Cancels the suppressive effect of interleukin-4 on interleukin-2-dependent proliferation and generation of lymphokine-activated killers. It activates the production of proteins of the acute phase of inflammation, enhances the expression of genes C2 and C4 components of the complement system.

Unlike other interferons (interferon alpha, interferon beta), interferon gamma increases the expression of major histocompatibility complex (MCHC) antigens of both the 1st and 2nd classes on different cells, and induces the expression of these molecules even on those cells that do not express them constitutively. This increases the efficiency of antigen presentation and the ability of their recognition by T-lymphocytes.

Ingaron (interferon gamma) blocks the replication of viral DNA and RNA, the synthesis of viral proteins and the assembly of mature viral particles, and has a cytotoxic effect on virus-infected cells. Ingaron (interferon gamma) blocks the synthesis of beta-TGF, responsible for the development of pulmonary and liver fibrosis.

Pharmacokinetics. Gamma-interferon when administered parenterally undergoes disintegration, is partially excreted unchanged, mainly through the kidneys.

Indications for use. Ingaron is used as an immunomodulator for the correction of cellular immunity disorders, as well as for the treatment of certain infectious, allergic, autoimmune and oncological diseases:

Ingaron injection solution:

Treatment of chronic viral hepatitis C;

Treatment of chronic viral hepatitis B (with or without delta agent);

HIV infection, AIDS;

Tuberculosis of the lungs (in complex therapy);

- "chlamydia diseases", urogenital chlamydia (complex therapy);

Herpetic viral infection, genital herpes virus infection, herpes zoster (Herpes zoster);

Prevention of infectious complications in patients with chronic granulomatous disease;

Treatment of oncological diseases (in complex therapy as an immunomodulator, including in combination with chemotherapy).

Ingaron solution for intranasal use:

Influenza and SARS (prevention, as part of complex therapy);

- "bird flu" (prevention, as part of complex therapy).

Method of application and dose. Ingaron is prescribed intramuscularly or subcutaneously. The contents of the vial are dissolved in 2 ml of water for injection. Ingaron's solution should be transparent, without foreign inclusions. Dissolution time should not exceed 3 minutes.

The dose of Ingaron is set individually.

For the treatment of patients with chronic viral hepatitis B, chronic viral hepatitis C, as well as HIV infection and AIDS, pulmonary tuberculosis - the average daily dose of Ingaron for adults is 500 thousand IU. Ingaron is introduced

1 time per day, daily or every other day. The course of treatment is from 1 to 3 months, if necessary, after 1-2 months, the course of treatment is repeated.

For the prevention of infectious complications in patients with chronic granulomatous disease, the average daily dose of Ingaron for adults is usually 500 thousand IU. Ingaron is administered once a day, daily or every other day. The course - 5-15 injections, if necessary, the course is extended or repeated every other day.

For the treatment of oncological diseases, the average daily dose of Ingaron for adults is 500 thousand IU. Ingaron is administered 1 time per day, every other day.

For the treatment of genital herpes infection, shingles (Herpes zoster) and urogenital chlamydia, the average daily dose of Ingaron for adults is 500 thousand IU. It is administered 1 time per day subcutaneously, every other day. The course of treatment is 5 injections.

Ingaron solution for intranasal use

Ingaron nose drops are prepared: the contents of the vial are dissolved in 5 ml of water for injection.

At the first signs of influenza, ARVI, 2 drops of Ingaron in each nasal passage after the toilet of the nasal passages 5 times a day for 5-7 days.

For the prevention of acute respiratory viral infections and influenza upon contact with the patient and / or when hypothermia 2-3 drops of Ingaron in each nasal passage every other day 30 minutes before breakfast for 10 days. If necessary, preventive courses are repeated. With a single contact, one instillation of Ingaron is sufficient.

Children's age (under 7 years old);

Autoimmune diseases (for injection);

Diabetes mellitus (for injection).

Ingaron is used with caution:

Severe forms of allergic diseases.

Use during pregnancy and lactation. Ingaron is contraindicated in pregnancy. The use of Ingaron in nursing mothers has not been studied.

Local soreness at the site of subcutaneous injection of Ingaron in the form of mild pain of a bursting nature (“like an overtrained muscle”) and hyperemia (local inflammatory reaction). These side effects are usually not an obstacle to the continued use of Ingaron.

With parenteral administration of Ingaron, especially high doses (over 1 million IU), chills, fever, fatigue, weakness, headache, joint pain (flu-like syndrome) are possible. Moderate symptoms do not require pharmacological management; with severe symptoms - the appointment of paracetamol.

Skin rashes and itching are also possible.

Ingaron nose drops

Not marked. Allergic reactions, hyperemia and mucosal edema are possible. With pronounced local and general adverse reactions, the administration of Ingaron should be discontinued.

Special instructions and precautions. To correct the cellular link of human immunity, it is necessary to make an immunological analysis with the determination of the levels of leukocytes, lymphocytes (total), B-, T- and NK-cells, the levels of immunoglobulins A-, M-, G- and E- (total), phagocytic activity, complement-binding activity and erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Depending on deviations in the immune status of a person, the tactics of prescribing doses and the duration of the course of treatment with Ingaron are selected.

Ingaron is most effective when used in the early stages of diseases.

Ingaron, like all interferons, with prolonged use and high doses, can lead to the appearance of antibodies to interferon and, as a result, to a decrease in the therapeutic effect.

In persons with a high pyrogenic reaction (40 ° C and above) to the introduction of Ingaron, the simultaneous use of paracetamol is recommended.

Opened and unused vials of Ingaron for injection can be stored at a temperature not exceeding 4 ° C for no more than 12 hours, freezing is not allowed.

Nose drops should be stored for no more than 10 days in the refrigerator.

General principles for prescribing gamma-interferon preparations. They consist in normalizing the human immune system and, in the future, strengthening either the helper or suppressor function of the cellular link of human immunity.

Gamma-interferon is used intramuscularly, in the focus or under the lesion, subconjunctival or locally.

In acute viral hepatitis B (HBV) - moderate and severe forms. Interferon gamma is effective in developing hepatic coma and cholestatic course of the disease;

With rheumatoid arthritis;

With peptic ulcer of the stomach and 12 duodenal ulcer;

In acute hepatitis B, gamma-interferon is administered at 10 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight, 1 time per day, for 7-10 days, then the dose is reduced to 5 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight, 1 time in 2 days, within 3 weeks. If necessary (after control biochemical blood tests), the course of treatment can be continued - 10 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight, 2 times a week, for a month. The course dose is mln. ME.

In acute protracted and chronic active hepatitis B, with the exclusion of delta infection and without signs of liver cirrhosis, gamma-interferon is administered at 10 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight 2 times a week for 1-2 months. If there is no effect, treatment should be extended up to 3-6 months, or after the end of 1-2 months of treatment, 2-3 similar courses should be carried out with an interval of 1-6 months.

In chronic active hepatitis D (HDV) without signs of liver cirrhosis, interferon gamma is administered at 5,000 IU per kilogram of body weight per day, 2 times a week, for 1 month. Repeated course of treatment - in 1-6 months.

In chronic active hepatitis B and D with signs of liver cirrhosis - according to

5 thousand ME per kilogram of body weight per day, 2 times a week, for 1 month.

In rheumatoid arthritis, interferon gamma is administered at 10,000 IU per kilogram of body weight, once a day, during the day. After blood tests (biochemical and general) and on the basis of clinical symptoms of the manifestation of the severity of the disease, a maintenance course is prescribed at a dose of 10 thousand ME per kilogram of body weight, once a week, for 2-3 months. Repeated courses are appointed in 4-5 months.

In case of peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum, gamma-interferon is administered at 5 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight, 1 time per day, for 21 days. A second course is prescribed no earlier than 1-2 months.

In breast cancer, gamma-interferon is administered at 10 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight, 1 time per day, during the day, then the dose is reduced to 5 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight, 2-3 times a week, for a month. Repeated courses are carried out in 3-4 months. During chemotherapy and radiation therapy, gamma-interferon is administered before the start of a course of chemotherapy and radiation therapy at a dose of 3 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight, 1 time per day for 7 days, and after a course of chemotherapy and radiation therapy - 6 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight, 1 time per day, for 14 days.

In endometrial cancer, interferon gamma is administered at a dose of 3,000 IU per kilogram of body weight, once a day, for 14 days. Further, it is prescribed at a dose of 6 thousand ME per kilogram of body weight, 2 times a week, for 2-3 months. Repeated courses are carried out in 5-6 months.

In case of juvenile respiratory papillomatosis of the larynx, gamma-interferon is administered at 15 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight, daily, during the day, then at the same dosage 2 times a week, for 1 month. The second and third courses are carried out with an interval of 2-6 months.

10 days. In the case of pronounced local inflammatory reactions, the introduction under the lesion is carried out after 1-2 days. At the end of the course, if necessary, cryodestruction is performed.

In stromal keratitis and keratoiridocyclitis, subconjunctival injections of interferon gamma in dozetys are prescribed. IU in a volume of 0.3 ml, daily or every other day, depending on the severity of the process. Injections are carried out under local anesthesia with a 0.5% dicaine solution. The course of treatment is from 10 to 20 injections.

For local use, the contents of the ampoule are dissolved in 5 ml of sterile isotonic sodium chloride solution. You can store a solution of gamma-interferon in the refrigerator at 4-10 ° C for no more than 12 hours. With conjunctivitis and superficial keratitis, 2 drops are applied to the conjunctiva of the affected eye 6-8 times a day. As inflammation disappears, the number of instillations is reduced to 3-4. The course of treatment is 2 weeks.

drug interaction. Ingaron can be used in combination with other cytokines (alpha-interferon, tumor necrosis factor, interleukin-2, colony-stimulating factors - granocyte, leukomax, neupogen, etc.), while it has an enhancing effect on the action of cytokines.

The international name is interferon-γ.

Composition and form of release. The active substance is recombinant interferon gamma-1-c. Each vial contains 100 micrograms (3 million IU).

Pharmachologic effect. It has an antineoplastic, antiviral, immunoregulatory effect.

Indications. Reducing the frequency and severity of infectious diseases in patients with chronic granulomatosis, regardless of the use or non-use of antibiotics for prophylactic purposes.

Dosing regimen. Patients with a body surface area greater than 0.5 m 2 are prescribed 50 mg/m body surface; patients with a body surface area of less than 0.5 m 2 are prescribed 1.5 μg / kg of body weight.

Apply in the form of subcutaneous injections. The frequency of administration - 3 times a week. The drug is used for a long time.

Side effect. Fever, myalgia, chills, headache, allergic reaction in the form of skin rash, neutropenia, transient increase in hepatic transaminases in the blood serum. Rarely - thrombocytopenia, proteinuria.

Contraindications. Age up to 6 months, pregnancy, hypersensitivity to any of the components of the drug.

Special instructions. With caution, the drug is prescribed to patients with diseases of the cardiovascular system, including ischemia, congestive heart failure, arrhythmia; epilepsy; diseases of the central nervous system; myelosuppression; marked impairment of liver function. Imukin should not be mixed with other drugs in the same syringe.

The active substance is a protein synthesized by the bacterial strain Escherichia coli C600, in the genetic apparatus of which the human immune interferon-gamma gene is inserted. Interferon-gamma is identical to human immune gamma-type interferon. The lyophilized preparation is a white powder or porous mass. As a stabilizer, dextran (polyglucin) with a molecular weight of 40 kDa is used at a final concentration of 20 mg/ml.

pharmacological properties. Gamma-interferon has antiviral, antitumor, immunomodulatory activities.

Gamma-interferon when administered parenterally undergoes disintegration, is partially excreted unchanged, mainly through the kidneys. The drug, like all interferons, with prolonged use and high doses, can lead to the appearance of antibodies to interferon and, as a result, to a decrease in the therapeutic effect of the drug.

Indications for use. The general principles are to normalize the human immune system and, in the future, to strengthen either the helper or suppressor function of the cellular link of human immunity.

Interferon gamma is used in complex therapy in adults:

In acute viral hepatitis B (HBV) - moderate and severe forms. Interferon gamma is effective in developing hepatic coma and cholestatic course of the disease;

In acute prolonged hepatitis B, chronic active hepatitis B and C (HCV) without signs of cirrhosis and with signs of liver cirrhosis;

With viral (influenza, adenovirus, enterovirus, herpetic, mumps), viral-bacterial and mycoplasmal meningoencephalitis;

With viral conjunctivitis, keratoconjunctivitis, keratitis, keratouveitis;

With a fungal infection (candida, dermatophytes, cryptococci, actinomycetes, aspergillus, histoplasma, coccidia, blastomycetes, pneumocysts);

With rheumatoid arthritis;

In chronic bacterial infections, in combination with antibiotic therapy;

With peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum;

With cancer (breast, endometrium, ovaries and other localization).

Interferon gamma is used in complex therapy in children:

With respiratory papillomatosis of the larynx, starting from the next day after the removal of papillomas.

Method of application and dose. Gamma-interferon is used intramuscularly, in the focus or under the lesion, subconjunctival or locally. Immediately before use, the contents of the vial are dissolved with sterile distilled water (1 ml for intramuscular injection and injection into the focus; 5 ml for subconjunctival and local injection). The solution of the drug should be transparent, without foreign inclusions. Dissolution time should not exceed 1-3 minutes.

Intramuscular administration. In acute hepatitis B, gamma-interferon is administered at 10 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight, 1 time per day, for 7-10 days, then the dose is reduced to 5 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight, 1 time in 2 days, within 3 weeks. If necessary (after control biochemical blood tests), the course of treatment can be continued - 10 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight, 2 times a week, for a month. The course dose is mln. ME.

In chronic active hepatitis D (HDV) without signs of liver cirrhosis, the drug is administered at 5 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight per day, 2 times a week, for 1 month. Repeated course of treatment - in 1-6 months.

In chronic active hepatitis B and D with signs of liver cirrhosis - 5 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight per day, 2 times a week, for 1 month.

When signs of decompensation appear, similar repeated courses are carried out at intervals of at least 2 months.

In chronic bacterial infections (chronic bronchitis, osteomyelitis, all types of chronic laryngitis and pharyngitis, enteritis of various etiologies, etc.), 10 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight per day, 2-3 times a week, for a month are administered. Repeated courses are carried out with an interval of 3-4 months.

In rheumatoid arthritis, the drug is administered at 10 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight, 1 time per day, during the day. After blood tests (biochemical and general) and on the basis of clinical symptoms of the manifestation of the severity of the disease, a maintenance course is prescribed at a dose of 10 thousand ME per kilogram of body weight, once a week, for 2-3 months. Repeated courses are appointed in 4-5 months.

For peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum, the drug is administered at 5 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight, 1 time per day, for 21 days. A second course is prescribed no earlier than 1-2 months.

In breast cancer, the drug is administered at 10 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight, 1 time per day, during the day, then the dose is reduced to 5 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight, 2-3 times a week, for a month. Repeated courses are carried out in 3-4 months. When conducting chemotherapy and radiation therapy, the drug is administered before the start of a course of chemotherapy and radiation therapy at a dose of 3 thousand ME per kilogram of body weight, 1 time per day for 7 days, and after a course of chemotherapy and radiation therapy - 6 thousand ME per kilogram body weight, 1 time per day, for 14 days.

In endometrial cancer, the drug is administered at a dose of 3 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight, 1 time per day, for 14 days. Further, the drug is prescribed at a dose of 6 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight, 2 times a week, for 2-3 months. Repeated courses are carried out in 5-6 months.

In case of juvenile respiratory papillomatosis of the larynx, the drug is administered at 15 thousand IU per kilogram of body weight, daily, during the day, then at the same dosage 2 times a week, for 1 month. The second and third courses are carried out with an interval of 2-6 months.

In persons with a high pyrogenic reaction (40 ° C and above) to the introduction of interferon gamma, the simultaneous use of paracetamol is recommended.

With basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma, keratoacanthoma, gamma-interferon is injected under the lesion of the hip. IU, 1 time per day, for

10 days. In the case of pronounced local inflammatory reactions, the introduction under the lesion is carried out after 1-2 days. At the end of the course, if necessary, cryodestruction is performed.

Injections are carried out under local anesthesia with a 0.5% dicaine solution. The course of treatment is from 10 to 20 injections.

For local use, the contents of the ampoule are dissolved in 5 ml of sterile isotonic sodium chloride solution. You can store the drug solution in the refrigerator at 4-10 ° C for no more than 12 hours. With conjunctivitis and superficial keratitis, 2 drops are applied to the conjunctiva of the affected eye 6-8 times a day. As inflammation disappears, the number of instillations is reduced to 3-4. The course of treatment is 2 weeks.

Side effects. With parenteral administration of interferon gamma, chills, fever, fatigue, skin rashes and itching are possible. When chipping the lesion - a local inflammatory reaction. These side effects usually do not prevent continued use of interferon gamma.

With local application of the drug on the mucous membrane, conjunctival injection, hyperemia of the eye mucosa, single follicles, and swelling of the conjunctiva of the lower fornix are possible. With pronounced local and general adverse reactions, the administration of interferon gamma should be discontinued.

Contraindications. Severe forms of allergic diseases and pregnancy.

Cutout form. Gamma-interferon is produced in lyophilized form in ampoules of 1 million, 300 thousand, 100 thousand IU, 5-10 vials in a pack or in a blister pack.

INTERFERON alpha, beta and gamma: immunomodulators in strengthening immunity and prevention.

Interferon human ( alpha, beta, gamma) is produced by various immunocompetent cells. System functions interferon- non-specific protection of the body from the introduction of various viruses and bacteria ( alpha and beta interferon), as well as control over the genetic constancy of body cells. Those. supervision of the timely destruction of cancer cells ( gamma interferon). System Failure interferon manifested in the presence of foci of chronic viral and bacterial infection in the body, their frequent exacerbation with the formation of omega in the focus of infection interferon the appearance of malignant tumors.

Interferons are divided into three main types:
Interferon alfa or leukocyte interferon synthesized by leukocytes in peripheral blood.
Interferon beta or fibroblastic interferon, is produced by fibroblasts in response to the same stimuli as interferon-alpha.
Interferon gamma or immune interferon, is produced by stimulated T-lymphocytes, NK-cells, macrophages.

Interferon omega is produced directly in the focus of infection.

In order to enhance the nonspecific resistance of the body, for fortifications immunity, prevention diseases can be used to increase the level interferon in the blood in several ways.

The simplest and least physiological way is the introduction into the body of drugs containing interferon. In this way, you can quickly increase the level interferon in blood. However, all drugs are not without side effects and contraindications.

A more natural, but less powerful way is the use of stimulants for the synthesis of endogenous interferon. Those. drugs that increase the synthesis of human interferon. Given that this group of drugs is not without side effects and contraindications, I recommend paying more attention to more natural stimulants for the formation of endogenous interferon.

One of the natural stimulators of endogenous synthesis interferon is an increase in body temperature. Therefore, with viral and bacterial infections, I advise you not to lower the temperature by any means and methods. And control it in a safe range (up to 39 degrees Celsius). And accompany the infection with the activation of the detoxification system.

In addition, I offer a time-tested and clinically certified author's phytopreparation "Health Formula of Dr. Skachko No. 1". The use of formula No. 1 allows you to activate the process of digestion of protein foods and ensure its high efficiency at various stages. Those. starting with digestion in the stomach, the continuation of protein digestion in the small intestine under the action of pancreatic enzymes and ensure absorption, processing in the liver. Those. provide the process of synthesis of endogenous interferon at the metabolic level. And after that it will be produced in the body alpha, beta, gamma or omega interferon- not the point is important. The body is a self-regulating system. More precisely than in the body, regulate the synthesis interferon Not sure it's going to happen. It is only important to ensure this process at the metabolic level. And control strengthening immunity medications taken, immunomodulators.

Good health to all of you. And a reasonable attitude towards him.

Doctor Boris Skachko, physician, 7th generation herbalist, author of 20 published books and brochures (including ), more than 40 scientific, more than 300 popular articles on topics: herbal medicine, valeology, proper, healthy nutrition, healthy lifestyle, strengthening immunity.

Articles by Dr. Boris Skachko on the topic: how to INCREASE and STRENGTHEN IMMUNITY.

Over the past year, almost every country on the European continent experienced a wave of viral infections. Traditionally, in the spring-autumn period, there is an increase in the number of patients with respiratory pathology. To date, more than a hundred pathogens of viral diseases are known, and medicine still cannot give a decent answer during an epidemic.

In general, for several decades, approaches to diagnosis and treatment have not changed much. In isolated cases, the cultivation of pathogens on chicken embryos and prophylactic injections to the population is carried out. All this is due to the fact that most viruses do not pose a serious threat to human health. Back in 1957, British scientists made fundamental discoveries - the body defeats a viral infection on its own. During the experiments, special substances were isolated that inhibit the development of pathogens and they were called interferons. Now these substances are part of medicines intended for the prevention and treatment of viral infections.

Indications for use

But not always the internal mechanisms work so smoothly, so doctors recommend prescribing alpha, beta or gamma interferon. Also, the drug can be used for the common cold and, in this case, it has a qualitative effect. Some guests of pharmacies note where interferon has disappeared. We recommend getting a prescription in Latin from a doctor who will prescribe the most affordable drug. It should be noted that interferon only shows excellent antiviral properties, therefore, with a bacterial infection, it is better to take an antibiotic (Wikipedia).

Scope of interferon preparations:

With Guillain-Barré syndrome, multiple sclerosis, poliomyelitis;
with viral hepatitis B and C;
with SARS and influenza;
with mycosis fungoides and Kaposi's sarcoma;
with a cold
in immunodeficiency states.

Interferon gamma and interferon alpha differences

To date, there are two types of interferons: human and recombinant. The first is produced by various cells of the human body: for example, leukocyte granulocytes produce gamma interferon, which is most often used in the treatment of hepatitis B and C, as well as alpha interferon, which is produced by T cells and NK killers. In turn, interferon beta is synthesized by connective tissue cells.

Analogues are cheaper

As already mentioned, the spectrum of antiviral drugs is limited. So, in pharmacy chains you can find various pharmacological names based on human or recombinant interferon. Among them are the most popular drugs: Viferon, Laferobion, Roferon, Gripferon, Igaron, Ribavirin, Kagocel, Synnovex and others. In addition, the following agents have antiviral activity: Amantadine and Acyclovir.

Interferon instructions for use

You should not use interferon for mild forms of acute respiratory viral infections, as well as 3 days after the first clinical manifestations. It is advisable to prescribe the drug as early as possible. Most often, the drug is supplied in vials containing powder with a dosage of 150 thousand to 1 million IU. The drug is diluted in 1-2 ml of saline and instilled into the nose.

Among the popular forms of ribavirin (trade name) are:

Candles - used in gynecology;
eye drops - often used for a child and for babies (often recommended by Komarsovsky);
ointment and gel - their cost is cheaper than the injectable form of release;
nasal spray - a dry composition is inhaled with a nebulizer into the nasal cavity;
ampoules - treatment involves injections with the drug, which I do in / in;
vials - the solution contains recombinant children's interferon, as well as a whole list of vitamins (C, B, etc.).

Human leukocyte

Human interferon remains the most popular, but there are some risks when using such an agent, since the powder is obtained from the blood of donors, so there is always a risk of developing immunogenic reactions. Alternatively, doctors use recombinant interferon, which is obtained from bacteria. For the manufacture of the drug, human antibodies are used, which are affinity purified. Interferon inducers may be used first. These studies are carried out by immunology (in particular, the Microgen company).

Interferon for children, infants

As for children in the neonatal period, interferon is indicated if the infant is bottle-fed. When breastfeeding, interferon, as well as other globulins, enter the baby's body from mother's milk.

Interferon instructions for the use of drops in the nose

For the treatment of respiratory pathology, vials with interferon of 150 thousand units are used. Using a disposable syringe, 2-3 ml of injection solution is injected into the vial, after which the contents are thoroughly mixed. Now the solution must be drawn back into the syringe, the needle removed and the solution dripped into the nasal passages. The course of treatment lasts 1-2 days, and the procedure is repeated 3-4 times a day.

During pregnancy

For the prevention of viral infections, as well as the development of conditions that threaten the fetus, pegylated interferon is prescribed in medium dosages for 5-7 days. For newborns, as well as pregnant women (2-3 trimester), the drug is recommended to be instilled into the eyes. Injectable forms can be harmful to infants and children under one year old, so the drug must be replaced.

For inhalation

One of the most popular forms of administration is inhalation through a nebulizer. The solution is sprayed in the form of an aerosol and settles on the walls of the nasal cavity, after which it reaches the target cells.

In gynecology

In gynecology, injectable forms of interferon (in ampoules) are used. The drug is administered intravenously and in high dosages. As a rule, for the treatment of viral pneumonia, meningitis and so on.

Much has been written and said about interferons in recent years. Sometimes they are attributed to the properties of a panacea for various diseases, and sometimes they are considered unconfirmed fantasies of scientists. Let's try to figure out what these drugs are, whether it is possible and necessary to be treated with their help.

Interferons are substances of a protein nature with general protective properties. They are produced by the cells of the body in response to the introduction of pathogenic viruses. It is these proteins that are a natural barrier that stops the penetration of the virus into the human body.

1957 is recognized as the year of discovery of interferon. British virologist A. Isaac and his colleague from Switzerland, Dr. D. Lindeman, conducted experiments on mice infected with viral diseases. During the experiments, a strange pattern was noticed - mice already sick with one type of virus did not succumb to infection with other viruses. The phenomenon is called - interference (that is, natural protection). From this word came the original name of interferons.

Over time, interferons produced by human cells were divided into groups. The classification is based on the types of cells that secrete interferons.

This is how they appeared:

interferon (ITF) alpha(leukocytic, produced by leukocytes);
interferon (ITF) beta(fibroblast, produced by connective tissue cells - fibroblasts);
interferon (ITF) gamma(immune - produced by lymphocytes, macrophages and natural killers).

Alpha group interferons have found their main application in medicine. They are involved in the treatment of most viral pathologies. ITP-beta have been tested in the treatment of clinical manifestations of multiple sclerosis.

What is the effect of interferons

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When they enter the body, pathogenic viruses penetrate the cells and begin an active process of reproduction. The cellular structure affected by the pathogen begins to produce interferons that act inside and go beyond its limits to transmit information to the "neighbor" cells. Interferon is not able to destroy viruses, its action is based on curbing the active reproduction of viral particles and their ability to move.

The mechanism of action of interferon:

actively reduces the processes of virus synthesis;
causes the activation of cellular enzymes protein kinase R, and ribonuclease-L, which cause a delay in the production of protein molecules of the virus, and also cleave RNA in cells (including viruses);
initiates the synthesis of the p53 protein, which has the ability to cause the death of the affected cell.

As you can see, interferons are capable of destroying not only foreign viruses, but also the structures of human cells.

In addition to the detrimental effect on the reproduction of viral bodies, interferons stimulate immune responses. Stimulation of cellular enzymes leads to antiviral activation of protective blood cells (T-helpers, macrophages, killers).

The activity and aggressiveness of interferons is very high. Sometimes one particle of interferon can completely ensure the resistance of a cell to the adverse effects of viruses, as well as reduce their reproduction by 50%.

Note:it takes about 4 hours from the start of the action of interferon preparations to the level of full protection.

Of the accompanying effects, the ability of ITP to suppress malignant tumor cells should be noted.

An immunologist-allergist, an employee of the Department of Immunology of the Russian National Research Medical University named after I.I. N.I. Pirogova Bella Bragvadze:

Methods for obtaining interferons, classification

To obtain interferon, methods are used:

infection of human blood protective factors(lymphocytes, leukocytes) certain safe strains of viruses. Then the interferon secreted by the cells undergoes technological processing methods and is converted into a dosage form;
genetic engineering(recombinant) - artificial cultivation of bacteria (most often E. coli), with the existing interferon gene in DNA. The patented name of interferon produced by this method is "Reaferon".

Note:the production of "Reaferon" is much cheaper than leukocyte interferon, and the efficiency can be greater. Recombinant interferon is used in the treatment of not only viral diseases.

Based on the information received, we single out the main types of interferon:

Lymphoblastoid ITF- Derived from natural materials.
Recombinant ITPs- synthetic analogues of human interferons.
PEGylated ITF- are synthesized together with polyethylene glycol, which allows interferons to act longer than usual. They have a stronger healing effect.

When is interferon needed?

The earlier treatment with interferon is started, the better the result can be achieved. It is this pattern that is used for the prophylactic administration of these drugs.

Interferon is used in a complex of therapeutic measures for viral, herpetic diseases, multiple sclerosis, malignant neoplasms, immunodeficiency states.

Note:leukocyte interferons are now practically out of use due to possible side effects and instability of the composition, as well as the high cost of producing the drug.

Forms of application of interferons

Due to the fact that interferons are protein structures, they are destroyed in the gastrointestinal tract, so the most optimal way to administer them is parenteral (injection into the muscle). In this case, the drugs are absorbed almost completely and have a maximum effect. The distribution of drugs in tissues is not the same. Low concentrations of ITP are observed in the nervous system, tissues of the organs of vision. Drugs are excreted by the liver and kidneys.

The most commonly used dosage forms:

interferon in candles,
interferon in the form of drops in the nose,
interferon in ampoules for injection.

Side effects of interferon treatment

The use of interferons at the beginning of treatment can provoke:

a slight increase in temperature;
pain in muscles, eyeballs;
weakness and heaviness in the body, a feeling of weakness;

Early manifestations of side effects usually go away quickly and do not require additional treatment.

At a later date, you may experience:

decrease in the number of red blood cells, platelets . The appearance of pathological forms of blood cells can also be observed;
sleep disturbances, low mood, convulsive twitches, and dizziness, problems of consciousness;
transient disorders of cerebral circulation;
vision problems (they are caused by problems in the vessels that feed the eyes, eye muscles and surrounding tissues);
manifestation of cardiac arrhythmia, pressure decrease, in some cases the development of myocardial infarction;
different types of cough with symptoms of shortness of breath,. A case of respiratory arrest is described;
pathology of the thyroid gland;
skin rashes;
problems with appetite, accompanied by unpleasant vomiting, sometimes the occurrence of gastrointestinal bleeding;
the appearance of activity of hepatic transaminases (enzymes showing problems in the liver tissue);
cases of hair loss.

Interferon preparations currently used

The modern pharmaceutical industry supplies the domestic market with a wide range of lymphoblastoid, recombinant and pegylated interferons:

Lymphoblastoid:

"Wellferon" - is prescribed for leukemia, viral hepatitis, kidney cancer and condylomatosis;
Reaferon - similar in action to Wellferon. It is used for viral and tumor pathologies.

Recombinant:

Laferobion.
Roferon.
Realdiron.
Viferon.
Grippferon.
Genferon.
Ingaron.

All recombinant drugs have found application in viral diseases, have been included in the complex treatment of oncological problems, herpetic infections, herpes zoster, multiple sclerosis.

Available in the form of sterile solutions for injection, ointments, drops for the nose and eyes. Each of the interferon preparations contains instructions for use.

What diseases are interferon preparations indicated for?

ITF treatment is used for all conditions associated with interferon deficiency.

Most often, these drugs are used for:

infections, SARS;
acute hepatitis C;
chronic hepatitis (B, C, D);
immunodeficiency states.

Are there any contraindications to the appointment of interferons

Some conditions and diseases do not allow the use of ITF preparations.

Interferons should not be prescribed for:

severe mental illness, convulsive conditions;
with blood disorders;
decompensated diseases of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems;
liver diseases occurring with a severe form of cirrhosis;
severe forms;

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, ITF is prescribed only in case of strict need or for health reasons.

The use of interferons in pediatric practice

Interferon is not used for children under one year old. At an older age, each drug is selected individually, depending on the age, condition and disease of the child.

The pediatrician, Dr. Komarovsky, tells about the features of the use of interferon and other antiviral drugs for children in this video review:

This group of drugs is not interferons, but is able to stimulate reactions to produce its own ITP.

Inductors began to be developed in the 70s of the last century, but they did not enter clinical practice in those years due to low efficiency and high toxicity, leading to severe adverse reactions. At present, these problems have been almost completely solved, and inductors have occupied their worthy niche in modern medicine.

There are two groups of interferon inducers:

natural origin (produced from yeast products and bacteriophages);
synthetic (preparations of acridonacetic acid and fluorenones).

Important:outside Russia and other CIS countries, ITP inductors are not used due to the lack of evidence of their clinical effect.

Currently, more than 10 drugs with low antigenic properties have been developed, which significantly expanded the possibilities of their use.

The most significant inducers of interferons are:

Amiksin- the very first drug of this group. Available in tablet form, has a long-lasting effect. It penetrates into the tissues of the brain, intestines and liver, which contributes to its use in various diseases.
Neovir- has the ability to activate natural killers. Produced in ampoules for injections. It is used for viral hepatitis, influenza, tumors.
Cycloferon- enhances the secretion of all types of interferons in the body . Available in ampoules and as a soluble powder for injection.
It is prescribed for viral forms of inflammation of the liver, cytomegalovirus, tick-borne encephalitis, herpes rashes. For this drug, dosage regimens have been developed that have been tested in clinics.
Poludan (polyadenur) found its main application in ophthalmology. It is prescribed for herpetic eye diseases.
Polyguacil- has good ability to penetrate parenchymal tissues, also used in rabies.
Kagocel- affects mainly the blood, spleen, liver, kidneys and organs containing lymphoid tissue. This feature allows it to be used for local viral lesions.
Rogasin- a modern form of interferon inducers, effective against viral hepatitis and neoplasms.