The role of the immune system is to fight bacteria, viruses and infections. Due to polluted environment and poor lifestyle, the body's defenses are reduced. Weakened immunity is one of the causes of various diseases, therefore, to improve general health, doctors prescribe the drug Viferon in different forms of release.
Forms of release and composition of the drug Viferon in suppositories
The medicine is prepared in the form of suppositories for rectal use, 150, 500 thousand IU, as well as 1 and 3 million IU. The product is bullet-shaped and white or yellowish in color. The presence of small inclusions in the suppository is allowed. The main active ingredient is human recombinant interferon alpha-2b.
Additional composition:
- ascorbic acid;
- alpha-tocopherol acetate;
- sodium ascorbate;
- disodium editate dihydrate;
- polysorbate 80;
- cacao butter;
- confectionery fat or analogue cocoa butter.
The medication is packaged in a cardboard container. Each package contains 10 pcs.
Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics
The main active ingredient, exhibiting antiviral and immunomodulatory properties, helps suppress the synthesis of microorganisms belonging to the class of RNA- and DNA-containing bacteria.
The antibacterial properties of the drug are due to the action of the main component, which enhances the phagocytic activity of macrophages and the ability of lymphocytes to undergo toxic effects caused by the activity of pathogens.
At the same time, thanks to the additional components included in the medication, the immunostimulating properties of the main substance increase significantly. This allows you to improve the functioning of the entire immune system of the body, which, in turn, will help increase the body's resistance to pathogenic microflora.
The use of the product leads to an increase in the level of immunoglobulin A and E. At the same time, stimulation of endogenous functions is observed.
Additional components have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Tocopherol acetate and ascorbic acid exhibit a membrane-stabilizing and restorative effect. There are no adverse reactions when using the medicine. In this case, the formation of antibodies capable of blocking the action of the drug is not observed.
The use of the medication allows you to avoid additional prescription of hormonal and antibacterial agents. This treatment regimen does not have a toxic effect on the patient’s body. The ingredients included in the form of polyunsaturated fatty acids allow rapid removal and dissolution of the active components of the dosage form.
When used rectally, the observed bioavailability of the active substances is about 80%. The maximum value of the main component in the blood plasma occurs 3-8 hours after using the medication. The drug is excreted through the kidneys. The half-life is 12 hours, which requires repeated use of the drug.
Mechanism of action
Synthetic interferon is an analogue of the natural substance. It eliminates viruses by doubling the viral DNA strands after entering the patient's cells.
This component contained in Viferon enhances the body's defenses by improving the functioning of humoral immunity. It increases the synthesis of immunoglobulin.
When exposed to interferon, cell division in inflamed areas decreases, and the likelihood of tumors decreases. The effectiveness of combating macrophage infection also increases. These components are designed to eliminate pathogenic agents in human blood.
Vitamin C has an antioxidant effect, enhances tissue regeneration during inflammation and strengthens cell membranes. After the suppository is inserted into the rectum, the medicine is quickly absorbed into the blood and begins to fight inflammation and viruses in the patient’s body.
Indications for use for adults
The pharmaceutical product is prescribed for bacterial and viral damage to the body as part of a complex effect.
Indications for use:
- development of acute respiratory viral infections, including diseases that occur in a complicated form - pneumonia, chlamydial and viral infections;
Viferon suppositories for adults. The instructions suggest the use of the drug for acute respiratory viral infections. - the formation of chronic forms of viral hepatitis of the established form D, C and B as part of complex treatment with the simultaneous use of plasmapheresis, as well as in viral forms of hepatitis accompanied by complications in the form of liver cirrhosis;
- infectious and inflammatory processes in the genitourinary system - ureaplasmic lesions, chlamydial lesions, trichomoniasis, formation of papillomas, bacterial vaginosis, infection with candidiasis, mycoplasmosis;
- comprehensive treatment and prevention of influenza and ARVI;
- prevention in the acute stage of stenosing laryngotracheobronchitis;
- herpes virus infection of the skin and mucous membranes, including genital herpes, herpetic cervicitis.
In complex and severe forms of pathological processes, the medicine is prescribed in an integrated approach together with other medications that exhibit antibacterial and antiviral effects.
From what age can it be used?
Young children are more susceptible to respiratory illnesses than adults. The difficulty in treating children under one year of age is that many medications are contraindicated for them. The advantage of Viferon is that it has no age restrictions . Therefore, children can take it from birth, even those born prematurely.
If a 4-5 month old baby in the family falls ill, Viferon antiviral suppositories for children will help in his treatment, the dosage rules of which will be presented below.
This medicine is suitable for treatment and as a prophylactic against ARVI.
Instructions for use of suppositories, rules of administration
The drug is intended for rectal use. Acute respiratory viral infections, including various complicated forms and pneumonia. The medicine is prescribed as part of a complex treatment. The recommended daily dosage is 500 thousand IU, 1 pc. 2 times a day. Use every 12 hours. Course duration is at least 5 days.
If necessary or in more severe cases, treatment can be extended. Chronic forms of viral hepatitis - B, C and D, including more complicated forms, accompanied by the development of liver cirrhosis. The standard dosage is 1 suppository 2 times a day. In this case, the drug is used every 12 hours. Treatment is carried out for 10 days.
Then a course is prescribed for six months to a year. With this therapy, the medicine is used no more than 3 times a week. The duration of the course depends on laboratory parameters and studies performed during treatment.
Infectious lesions of the genitourinary system: ureaplasma, trichomoniasis, formation of papillomas, bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis, development of mycoplasmosis, infection with gardnerellosis. The daily dosage is 500 thousand IU, 1 piece. 2 times a day. The medication is used every 12 hours. Therapy is carried out over the next 5-10 days.
In some cases, treatment is extended for a longer period. Damage to the skin and mucous membranes by the herpes virus, including genital herpes. The pharmaceutical product is used in a dosage of 150 thousand IU. Prescribed 1 suppository 2 times a day. The drug is administered every 12 hours. Therapy is carried out for 10 days. In complicated forms of the disease, treatment is extended.
The effectiveness of therapy depends on the stage of development of the disease. It is recommended to begin therapeutic measures at the first symptoms of the development of pathology.
The dosage is calculated taking into account the age of the patient. In this case, the average daily norm is multiplied by the body surface area according to the proposed monogram. The results obtained must be divided into 2 equal parts and used 2 times a day. Approximate data should be rounded up.
Use during pregnancy
Viferon suppositories for adults, the instructions for use of which allow the use of the medicine during pregnancy, can be prescribed to women starting from the 14th week of the gestational period.
For infectious lesions of the genitourinary system, 500 thousand IU, 1 piece each, is prescribed. 2 times a day. Use every 12 hours. Duration of therapeutic effect is at least 10 days. For the next 9 days, it is recommended to use the product no more than 3 times with an interval of 3 days.
In the future, until the end of the pregnancy, a dosage of 150 thousand IU is prescribed, 1 suppository every 12 hours, 2 times a day. Therapy is carried out for 5 days. The entire period of treatment during pregnancy requires strict monitoring of the condition of the mother and fetus. The medication does not affect the mother's breast milk, and therefore it is allowed to use suppositories during lactation.
Mode of application
All actions are carried out after thorough hand cleaning. You can use simple soap and water. A table, couch or other surface suitable for the procedure must be covered with oilcloth and covered with a diaper or sheet on top.
Before administering the drug, it is necessary to empty it from the packaging. Then you should lie on your left side and slightly bend your knees. In this case, you need to pull your legs towards your body and try to relax.
When using a pharmaceutical product, you must carefully and slowly insert it into the anus. During the process, it is recommended to hold the candle to prevent it from falling out. The procedure should be performed with an empty bowel.
It is necessary to administer the dosage form wearing gloves or a fingertip. After completing the suppository administration process, you must remain in a position with bent knees for the next 10-20 minutes. After the procedure, you should wash your hands with soap.
Side effects of the medicine
Doctors note rare side effects during treatment. But in rare cases, parents notice a rash on the skin around the anus or itching.
In these cases, you should consult a doctor to discontinue the medication or replace it with an analogue. As a rule, side symptoms disappear within 2–3 days. The drug does not cause severe allergies for treatment, which require the use of other drugs.
Interaction
The drug combines well with other groups of drugs that treat viruses and infections. Candles can be used both in complex therapy and for the prevention of viral diseases. They can be used simultaneously with antibiotics, hormonal medications, etc.
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special instructions
During the treatment of herpes infection, including secondary lesions, it is prohibited to use rectal suppositories in the following cases.
They are:
- various forms of herpetic infection - atypical, generalized;
- with eczema, atopic and seborrheic dermatitis, as well as with the development of Gougerot-Hailey syndrome;
- neoplasms (cancer) of the skin;
- mental disorders;
- development of thrombocytopenia.
The medicine is also prohibited for use in pathologies associated with disorders of the immune system. The effect of pharmaceuticals on the ability to drive motor vehicles or perform work that requires increased concentration has not been established. The medicine can be used during pregnancy, starting from the 14th week.
Reviews
On the Internet you can see a considerable number of different reviews about the drug, most of which are positive. By the way, many doctors also note this medicine as an effective antiviral agent that is excellent for most patients.
“The gynecologist prescribed me Viferon to fight the infection that caused candidiasis. I was treated with these suppositories for 10 days, after which the infection decreased significantly. After a five-day break, the course was repeated, but for 5 days. I was pleased with the result.”
“After a cat appeared at home, somehow all family members began to suspect toxoplasmosis. Viferon was prescribed for prevention and treatment. Moreover, everyone was treated with it: my husband and I and two children, one of whom is only three months old. No adverse reactions, I recommend!”
“After contacting a urologist, a course of complex treatment was prescribed, which included Viferon to eliminate the infection. I didn’t notice any side effects, but I was pleased with the result. Now I use this drug for periodic prophylaxis, on the advice of a doctor.”
Analogs
Viferon suppositories for adults, the instructions for use of which indicate a possible intolerance to the components, can be replaced with medications identical in composition.
The pharmaceutical product has several substitutes for the active substance and pharmacological class. The selection of a similar drug should be carried out by the attending specialist, taking into account the form of the disease, tolerability of the components, as well as the characteristics of the patient’s body.
Analogues:
- Vitaferon. The pharmaceutical product is in the form of suppositories. It is used in the complex treatment of acute respiratory viral infections, including infections of the genitourinary system. Belongs to the class of immunomodulatory and antiviral medications. Effective in the treatment of childhood infectious diseases. Can be used during pregnancy, starting from the 28th week. The dosage and duration of the course depend on the form of the infectious lesion identified during the examination. The drug is contraindicated if the components are intolerant. Cost – from 160 rubles. per package.
- Laferon-Farmbiotech . It is produced in the form of rectal suppositories and lyophilisate. The active component is interferon alpha-2b. The medicine has a wide range of biological activity. Used as an immunomodulatory and antiviral agent. Relieves inflammatory reactions. Suppresses the activity of pathogenic microflora. It is used in the complex treatment of viral infections, including genital infections. The dosage is calculated taking into account the patient’s age, individual characteristics of the body, as well as the identified form of the pathological process. Cost – from 430 rubles.
- Laferomax . The medication is produced in the form of suppositories. The active ingredient is interferon alpha-2b. The drug has a wide spectrum of action. Prescribed for viral infections of the body, including sexually transmitted infections. It has multiple contraindications, which is why it is necessary to consult a doctor. Standard dosage regimen – 1 pc. 2 times a day. The duration of the course depends on the specific form of viral infection. Cost – from 450 rubles.
- Alfarekin. It is produced in the form of suppositories and solution for various injections. The medication belongs to the category of antiviral and immunomodulatory agents. The pharmaceutical product exhibits antitumor activity and is approved for use in childhood. It is used in the treatment of viral lesions, eliminates inflammatory reactions, and suppresses the vital activity of dangerous microorganisms. The dosage is calculated based on the course and severity of the disease. The duration of exposure is determined based on the form of the pathological process. Cost – from 600 rubles. for the remedy.
- Laferobion . The pharmaceutical product is manufactured in the form of suppositories for rectal use, nasal spray and drops. The main substance of the drug is interferon. Shows antiviral activity. Helps fight pathogens of acute viral infections, including microorganisms that contribute to the development of genitourinary diseases. Contraindicated in cases of renal dysfunction, autoimmune hepatitis, and liver disease. The daily norm is calculated based on the dosage of the drug, as well as on the basis of the established form of the disease. The duration of the course is determined individually. Cost – from 130 to 1450 rubles.
- Grppferon . Belongs to the category of cytokines. The active substance is interferon. It is used in complex therapeutic effects for infectious and viral diseases. The drug exhibits antiviral, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activity. Prescribed as an adjuvant for acute respiratory viral infections. Can be prescribed as a preventive measure. It is forbidden to take the medicine if you have severe forms of allergic reactions. The dosage and duration of the course depend on the severity of the disease. Cost – from 265 rubles.
- Reaferon-EC . The medicine is produced in the form of an injection solution based on interferon. It is used for viral and bacterial infections of the body, including infectious processes in the genitourinary system. The medicine helps eliminate inflammatory reactions and suppresses the activity of dangerous microorganisms. Contraindication is hypersensitivity to the drug. The duration of treatment and the daily dose are determined based on the form of the pathology and its severity. The cost of the drug in Moscow pharmacies varies between 500 rubles.
Viferon suppositories for adults, the instructions for use of which state that the product may cause intolerance reactions to components, or other medications should be used only after consultation with your doctor.
Price
The cost of Viferon suppositories (the dosage for children 2 years of age should not exceed 300,000 IU per day) depends on the concentration of the active substance and is equal to:
- 10 suppositories of 150,000 IU - 220-300 rubles;
- 10 suppositories of 500,000 IU each - 340-430 rubles;
- 10 suppositories of 1,000,000 IU each - 460-600 rubles;
- 10 suppositories of 3,000,000 IU each - 800-1000 rubles.
The drug is sold in pharmacies. The cost of Viferon gel and ointment is approximately the same - about 150-200 rubles.
Terms, conditions of sale and storage
It must be stored in a dark place at a temperature from 2 to 8 0C. Shelf life – 2 years from the date of manufacture. Do not use the product after the expiration date indicated on the packaging. Available without a prescription.
You can purchase the drug at any medical facility or pharmacy. You can also order pharmaceutical products through an online pharmacy that has a certificate allowing you to sell medicines. Before purchasing a medicine, you must ensure that the product has a certificate.
Price in pharmacies in Moscow, St. Petersburg, regions
The cost of the dosage form depends on the region and region of sale of the product. The price is also influenced by the manufacturing company and the pharmacy chain.
| Region, region | Dosage, form | Price |
| Moscow, Moscow region | 150 thousand IU | from 180 to 330 rub. |
| Moscow, Moscow region | 500 thousand IU | 50-480 rub. |
| Moscow, Moscow region | 3 million IU | 603-1100 rub. |
| Moscow, Moscow region | 1 million IU | 73-1045 rub. |
| Saint Petersburg | 150 thousand IU | 245-575 rub. |
| Saint Petersburg | 500 thousand IU | 339-456 rub. |
| Saint Petersburg | 1 million IU | 455-586 rub. |
| Saint Petersburg | 3 million IU | 532-1086 rub. |
| St. Petersburg (suburbs) | ointment, 12 g | 149-189 rub. |
| Leningrad region | 150 thousand IU | 230-575 rub. |
| Leningrad region | 500 thousand IU | 339-456 rub. |
| Novgorod region | gel, 12 g | 16-154 rub. |
Before using Viferon rectal suppositories, you should consult with your doctor and carefully study the instructions for use related to the dosage for adults and the presence of contraindications to the drug.
Article design: Oleg Lozinsky
