Alpha interferon: indications and contraindications
This drug is used: 1. Parenterally for: - hepatitis B and C: - hairy cell leukemia; - genital warts; - multiple myeloma; — mycosis fungoides; - non-Hodgkin's lymphomas; - Kaposi's sarcoma in patients with AIDS; - renal carcinoma; - malignant melanoma. 2. Rectally for: - treatment of chronic and acute viral hepatitis. 3. Intranasally for: - treatment and prevention of acute respiratory viral infections; - treatment and prevention of influenza.
The drug is contraindicated in the following cases:
- severe heart disease; — epilepsy and disorders of the central nervous system; — various dysfunctions of the kidneys and liver; — chronic hepatitis and liver cirrhosis; — autoimmune hepatitis; — autoimmune thyroiditis and thyroid diseases; - treatment with immunosuppressants.
Release form
Interferon preparations have the following release forms:
- lyophilized powder for the preparation of eye and nasal drops, injection solution;
- injection solution;
- eye drops;
- eye films;
- nasal drops and spray;
- ointment;
- dermatological gel;
- liposomes;
- aerosol;
- oral solution;
- rectal suppositories;
- vaginal suppositories;
- implants;
- microenemas;
- tablets (interferon tablets are available under the brand name Entalferon).
Side effects of alpha interferon
The most severe side effects are observed with parenteral administration of the drug. These are: headaches, fever, weakness, myalgia. Side effects from the cardiovascular system: arrhythmia, arterial hypertension. From the central nervous system: impaired consciousness, drowsiness, ataxia. From the digestive system: nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, possible impairment of liver function. Various dermatological reactions are possible: skin tightness, skin rash, erythema. All this, as a rule, manifests itself against the background of general weakness.
pharmachologic effect
IFN drugs belong to the group of drugs with antiviral and immunomodulatory effects.
All IFNs have antiviral and antitumor effects. No less important is their property of stimulating macrophages , cells that play an important role in the initiation of cellular immunity .
IFNs help increase the body's resistance to the penetration of viruses, and also block the reproduction of viruses when they penetrate the cell. The latter is due to the ability of IFN to suppress the translation of the messenger RNA of the virus.
However, the antiviral effect of IFN is not directed against specific viruses, that is, IFNs are not characterized by virus specificity. This is precisely what explains their versatility and wide range of antiviral activity.
Interferon - what is it?
Interferons are a class of glycoproteins that are produced by vertebrate cells in response to the influence of various types of inducers, both viral and non-viral in nature.
According to Wikipedia, in order for a biologically active substance to be qualified as an interferon, it must be of a protein nature, have pronounced antiviral activity against various viruses, at least in homologous (similar) cells, “mediated by cellular metabolic processes, including the synthesis of RNA and protein "
The classification of IFNs proposed by the WHO and the Interferon Committee is based on differences in their antigenic, physical, chemical and biological properties. In addition, it takes into account their species and cellular origin.
Based on antigenicity (antigen specificity), IFNs are usually divided into acid-stable and acid-labile. The acid-fast ones include alpha and beta interferons (they are also called type I IFN). Interferon gamma (γ-IFN) is acid labile.
α-IFN is produced by peripheral blood leukocytes (B- and T-type leukocytes), so it was previously designated as leukocyte interferon . There are currently at least 14 varieties of it.
β-IFN is produced by fibroblasts , which is why it is also called fibroblastic.
The former designation of γ-IFN is immune interferon , and it is produced by stimulated T-type lymphocytes , NK cells (normal (natural) killer cells; from English “natural killer”) and (presumably) macrophages.
Basic properties and mechanism of action of IFN
Without exception, all IFNs are characterized by multifunctional activity against target cells. Their most common property is the ability to induce an antiviral state in them.
Interferon is used as a therapeutic and prophylactic agent for various viral infections. A feature of IFN drugs is that their effect weakens with repeated injections.
The mechanism of action of IFN is related to its ability to control viral infections. As a result of treatment with interferon drugs, a kind of barrier of uninfected cells resistant to the virus is formed in the patient’s body around the source of infection, which prevents the further spread of infection.
By interacting with still undamaged (intact) cells, it prevents the implementation of the reproductive cycle of viruses by activating certain cellular enzymes ( protein kinases ).
The most important functions of interferons are considered to be the ability to suppress hematopoiesis ; modulate the body's immune response and inflammation response; regulate the processes of cell proliferation and differentiation; suppress the growth and prevent the proliferation of viral cells; stimulate the expression of surface antigens; suppress individual functions of B- and T-type leukocytes, stimulate the activity of NK cells, etc.
Use of IFN in biotechnology
The development of methods for the synthesis and highly efficient purification of leukocyte and recombinant interferons in quantities sufficient for the production of drugs has opened up the possibility of using IFN drugs to treat patients diagnosed with viral hepatitis .
A distinctive feature of recombinant IFNs is that they are produced outside the human body.
For example, recombinant interferon beta-1a (IFN β-1a) is obtained from mammalian cells (in particular, from Chinese hamster ovary cells), and interferon beta-1b (IFN β-1b), , is produced by belonging to family of enterobacteria coli (Escherichia coli).
Interferon inducer drugs - what are they?
IFN inducers are drugs that do not themselves contain interferon, but at the same time stimulate its production.
Interferon inducers are Actaviron , Kagocel , Neovir , Ridostin , Tiloron , Cycloferon , etc.
Alpha interferon: instructions for use
This drug is used as a solution for inhalation or instillation into the nose. Before use, the ampoule is shaken and opened. Then add water to it up to the mark on the ampoule (2 ml.). Then the whole thing is gently shaken until the dry powder is completely dissolved. For treatment, the drug begins to be used at the first symptoms of the disease. Interferon is instilled into each nasal passage, 5 drops at least 5 times a day, every 1-2 hours. The course of treatment should be 2-3 days. For preventive purposes, it is recommended to instill the solution 5 drops into each nostril twice with a 6-hour interval. The drug is also recommended for use as eye drops for viral infections. Interferon can be used for children in the same proportions. But there are other recommendations. A particularly effective method of using Interferon for children is inhalation. To do this, you need to dilute 3 ampoules of the drug in 10 milliliters of warm water. The inhalation procedure should be carried out no more than twice a day. We recommend using an electrically heated inhaler. Inhalation of the drug can be carried out to a child, both through the mouth and through the nose. It is not recommended to use Interferon for pregnant women and during breastfeeding (lactation). The drug should also be used very carefully in patients who have had a myocardial infarction, myelodepression, or thrombocytopenia. It is necessary to use Interferon with great caution together with sedatives, sleeping pills and opioid analgesics.
Drops
Interferon drops are effective in the treatment of viral diseases such as ARVI, conjunctivitis, keratitis, etc. Manufacturers offer nasal and eye drops. Interferon drops contain a small amount of active ingredient - up to 10,000 IU.
The most well-known drug for the eyes is ophthalmoferon. This is a white solution with a faint yellowish tint. An additional component in the product is diphenhydramine. Thanks to him, it is possible to relieve allergic manifestations.
Nasal interferon is sold in the form of various drugs. Gripferon is considered effective in the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections and influenza. This medication may be in the form of drops or a nasal spray. It is believed that interferon spray is more convenient to use. You can prepare interferon nasal drops yourself using a ready-made solution in ampoules, which must be dissolved in a certain amount of saline.
Interferon: price and sale
Buying this drug today is not difficult. It is sold in almost every pharmacy or specialized department of any supermarket. Interferon, the price of which is not very high and is almost the same everywhere, is quite popular. But nevertheless, we want to warn you not to purchase this drug with your own hands and when purchasing it, require a certificate of product conformity. This way you will protect yourself from counterfeits that are now flooding pharmaceutical companies. Reviews about Interferon are generally favorable, it is noted to be highly effective in the treatment and prevention of infectious diseases, but at the same time, many reviews indicate that people are concerned about the side effects that occur when using this drug. One thing is clear: you need to know your body very well before using any medicinal drug.
Solution
Interferon in ampoules for injection is produced in different dosages under different names: reaferon, wellferon, betaferon, etc. The products are available in syringe tubes, ready for use, which simplifies the use of the drug. Dosages in products – 500 – 10,000,000 IU.
You can also purchase interferon in powder form in glass ampoules. This is a lyophilisate that is produced using a special technology. It is dissolved in physiological solution for further use for intramuscular and subcutaneous injections. In this way you can fight any infectious lesions of the body.
An alternative way to use the powder is inhalation using a special drug - a nebulizer. It creates a cloud consisting of miniature particles. Such inhalations are considered effective in the treatment of respiratory diseases.
Interferon and Transfer Factor
(very important note) The cost of a package of Interferon is from 80 to 120 rubles. A package is enough for 2-3 days of therapy, and in acute chronic diseases its use extends for years, and the result is not guaranteed and, on the contrary, it threatens very serious complications. A full course for this type of disease requires up to 30 packages (!), which requires a cost of about 3,500 rubles , long months of use and dealing with side effects. Exactly the same functions are performed by Transfer Factor, which contains 90 capsules in a package and costs about 2,000 rubles. , but at the same time its effect on our body is deeper and more dramatic - it puts in order damaged human DNA, i.e. removes the cause of the disease, and does not treat its consequences, like Interferon. Among other things, TF has no contraindications and does not cause any side effects; it is impossible to overdose and has no age restrictions. But if you still decide to take only Interferon, then we advise you to take it with TF in combination, because When taken this way, TF neutralizes all the side effects of Interferon. You will find everything about the use of TF here.
Suppositories
The most famous are suppositories containing interferon called viferon. The amount of active substance in them is 150,000 IU - 3,000,000 IU. Suppositories are made from confectionery fat and cocoa butter. Additional components are ascorbic acid, polysorbate, tocopherol acetate.
The suppositories have a convenient shape and are intended for rectal or vaginal use.
Indications for their topical use are various diseases of the urogenital tract. Suppositories also have a good systemic effect. This is ensured by the rich circulatory network of the rectum, which guarantees rapid entry of the active substance into the blood. Therefore, interferon suppositories can be used in the complex treatment of various viral infections.
The rectal area has a fairly rich vascular network, due to which the drug quickly enters the bloodstream. Suppositories containing this substance can be used in both children and adults to treat viral and bacterial infections as part of complex therapy. This type of drug is especially convenient for children who may be afraid of intramuscular injections.
Interaction
β-IFN is compatible with corticosteroid drugs and ACTH. It should not be taken during treatment with myelosuppressive drugs, incl. cytostatics (this may cause an additive effect).
Beta-IFN is prescribed with caution with drugs whose clearance is largely dependent on the cytochrome P450 system (anti-epileptic drugs, some antidepressants, etc.).
You should not take α-IFN and Telbivudine . The simultaneous use of α-IFN provokes a mutual enhancement of action against HIV . When used together with phosphazide , the myelotoxicity of both drugs may mutually increase (it is recommended to carefully monitor changes in the number of granulocytes and hemoglobin ).
Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics
The main biological effect of α-IFN is the inhibition of viral protein synthesis . The antiviral state of the cell develops within several hours after administration of the drug or induction of IFN production in the body.
At the same time, IFN does not affect the early stages of the replication cycle, that is, at the stage of adsorption, penetration of the virus into the cell (penetration) and release of the internal component of the virus during its “undressing”.
The antiviral effect of α-IFN occurs even when cells are infected with infectious RNA. IFN does not penetrate the cell, but only interacts with specific receptors on cell membranes ( gangliosides or similar structures that contain oligosugars ).
The mechanism of IFN alpha activity resembles the action of individual glycopeptide hormones . It stimulates the activity of genes, some of which are involved in encoding the formation of products with a direct antiviral effect.
β-interferons also have an antiviral effect, which is associated with several mechanisms of action. Interferon beta activates NO synthetase, which in turn increases the concentration of nitric oxide inside the cell. The latter plays a key role in suppressing the reproduction of viruses.
β-IFN activates the secondary, effector functions of natural killer cells , B-type lymphocytes , blood monocytes , tissue macrophages ( mononuclear phagocytes) and neutrophil leukocytes , which are characterized by antibody-dependent and antibody-independent cytotoxicity.
In addition, β-IFN blocks the release of the internal component of the virus and disrupts the processes of RNA methylation of the virus.
γ-IFN is involved in the regulation of the immune response and regulates the severity of inflammatory reactions. Despite the fact that it has an independent antiviral and antitumor effect, gamma interferon is very weak. At the same time, it significantly enhances the activity of α- and β-IFN.
After parenteral administration, the maximum concentration of IFN in the blood plasma is observed after 3-12 hours. The bioavailability indicator is 100% (both after injection under the skin and after injection into the muscle).
The half-life T½ ranges from 2 to 7 hours. Trace concentrations of IFN in blood plasma are not detectable after 16–24 hours.
Contraindications
Interferon is not prescribed to patients with hypersensitivity to it, as well as to children and adolescents suffering from severe mental disorders and disorders of the nervous system, which are accompanied by thoughts of suicide and suicide attempts, severe and prolonged depression .
In combination with the antiviral drug Ribavirin, IFN is contraindicated in patients diagnosed with serious renal impairment (conditions in which creatinine clearance is less than 50 ml/min).
Interferon drugs are contraindicated in epilepsy (in cases where appropriate therapy does not produce the expected clinical effect).
Analogs
Level 4 ATC code matches:
Roferon A
Genfaxon
Inferon
Lipoferon
Laifferon
Intron A
Betaferon
Grippferon
Ingaron
Alfarekin
Laferon
PegIntron
Pegasis
Interlock
Nazoferon
Viferon
Infagel
Reaferon-Lipint
Reaferon-ES-Lipint
Reaferon-EC
Each type of interferon has analogues:
- Interferon alpha-2a preparations : Reaferon-EC , Roferon , Infagel .
- Recombinant human interferon alpha-2b is available under the brand names: Grippferon , Intron-A , Viferon , Altevir , Alfarona .
- Interferon alpha-2c preparations used in the clinic are: Berofor , Egiferon , Velferon .
- Interferon beta-1a preparations : Rebif , Teberif , Genfaxon , SinnoVex , Avonex .
- Interferon beta-1b preparations : Betaferon , Ronbetal , Infibeta , Extavia .
- Interferon gamma preparations : Ingaron , Gammaferon , Immunoferon , Imukan .
Interferon-based drugs for the prevention of ARVI
In most countries of the northern hemisphere, ARVI, that is, acute respiratory viral infections, is one of the most widespread infectious diseases. Despite the popularization of vaccination aimed at protecting against influenza, it cannot fully solve the problem of ARVI. The thing is that vaccinated people develop antibodies only to those strains of the influenza virus that are part of the vaccine. But viruses constantly mutate, so you may be offered a vaccine against a certain number of influenza strains, but you will get sick from completely different strains. Scientists cannot create vaccines as quickly as mutation occurs. It is also necessary to take into account the fact that vaccines are not used in the midst of an epidemic.
Preventive protection against ARVI must be comprehensive, including nonspecific prophylaxis, which is not aimed at specific strains, but acts against the majority of ARVI known to science. It is necessary to use antiviral drugs that have a significant impact on preventing the occurrence of diseases and on the favorable outcome of the developed disease.
What are interferons
Interferons (IFNs) are an independent group of cytokines, secreted proteins that play a critical role in the functioning of the immune system of humans and all vertebrates.
They are responsible for antiviral activity, that is, they directly protect the body from the expression of foreign genetic material. IFNs take part in the regulation of a large number of immune processes, which consist of increasing the activity of natural killer cells and stimulating phagocytosis - the process of capturing and absorbing microorganisms and foreign particles, and also support the inhibition of proliferation - the process of reproduction of damaged cells. All this is aimed at the most effective protection against diseases. Scientists were able to prove that the course of the disease and the speed of recovery largely depend on the ability of the interferon system to respond as quickly as possible to the introduction of the pathogen.
History of the discovery of interferon
The scientific world first started talking about IFN more than 60 years ago, when English virologists Alik Isaacs and Jean Lindenmann published materials in one of the journals in which they spoke in detail about the discovery and study of the IFN protein. Legend has it that they came up with the name “interferon” for these proteins themselves, and at first they considered it humorous.
It is also worth noting that long before the work of these virologists, other scientists tried to study the phenomenon of interference, which consists in the mutual suppression of viruses. Then the talk was that the body, infected with viruses of one type, for some reason became immune to viruses of another type. Scientists tried to find an answer to this question, but until the research of Isaac and Lindenmann, the nature of this phenomenon remained shrouded in mystery.
And in the middle of the 20th century, interferon was discovered and it was found that the formation of IFN is one of the very first reactions of the innate immune system to alarm signals associated with the penetration of viral particles into the body. Currently, scientists adhere to the version that the IFN system in vertebrates, including fish, was formed more than 500 million years ago.
In 1959, the Scientific Committee on Interferon was created, where research immediately began on this powerful natural remedy in the fight against viral diseases. The list of the main tasks of this community included the development of the most economically feasible and efficient methods for the production of IFN, as well as its purification.
