Viral drugs. Powerful antiviral for colds

There is probably not a single person who has not suffered from colds at least once in their life, at least in childhood. Therefore, there is no person who would not be concerned about the question of what to take for a cold.

Colds may have different names, but they are based on one reason - infection of various parts of the body and, in particular, the upper respiratory tract, by pathogens. These microorganisms are divided into two main categories – bacteria and viruses.

Treatment of acute respiratory diseases can be either symptomatic, aimed at alleviating the manifestations of the disease, or etiological, aimed at eliminating the root cause of the disease. Fortunately, antibacterial drugs, or antibiotics, have long been used successfully to treat diseases caused by bacteria. But in the case of diseases caused by another group of infectious agents - viruses, the situation is not so favorable. And there are several reasons for this.

Respiratory diseases caused by viruses

What acute respiratory diseases are caused by viruses? These include, first of all, influenza and ARVI.

The term ARVI (acute respiratory viral infection) refers to various infections caused by viruses that are not related to influenza. These viruses include:

• adenoviruses,
• rhinoviruses,
• parainfluenza viruses,
• coronaviruses,
• respiratory syncytial viruses.

Respiratory symptoms are also characteristic of some other viral diseases:

• measles,
• rubella,
• chicken pox,
• whooping cough

However, they are not usually classified as viral respiratory diseases.

Symptoms of parainfluenza and ARVI

Symptoms of diseases caused by different types of viruses often differ little from each other. And it is usually possible to determine the type of disease only by identifying the type of pathogen, which is not always easy.

Typically, ARVI is characterized by symptoms such as cough, runny nose, high temperature (sometimes low-grade, below +38º C), sore throat, headaches, and frequent sneezing. Sometimes symptoms may be accompanied by signs of intoxication - nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Most experts are of the opinion that when treating ARVI in people with normal immunity and not a weakened body for some reason, no antiviral drugs are needed. These diseases, with the right approach to their treatment, go away on their own and do not cause any complications. Therefore, treatment of these diseases is mainly symptomatic. The only exception is syncytial infection, which can be fatal in infants.

Treatment for diseases such as ARVI comes down mainly to bed rest, creating normal conditions for recovery – absence of drafts, hypothermia of the body. It is also necessary to drink a lot of liquid, always warm, for example, tea with lemon. Taking vitamins and antioxidants also helps with healing. To treat a runny nose, you can use anti-inflammatory or clearing nose drops; to treat the bronchi and throat, you can use inhalations based on herbal infusions that relieve inflammation. Good nutrition is also an important element of therapy.

Photo: Nestor Rizhniak/Shutterstock.com

Flu and its characteristic symptoms

Symptoms of influenza are often different from those of other viral respiratory diseases. However, this difference may not always manifest itself. Often, in the case of high immunity or a weakened type of virus, the symptoms of influenza are practically no different from the symptoms of ARVI. And, nevertheless, there are several main signs that you should pay attention to.

First of all, most varieties of influenza are characterized by a very high temperature, which can rise to +39.5 – +40ºС. The temperature usually rises to high levels in a short period of time. Thus, if the temperature is initially low-grade, and then, after a couple of days, rises to high values, then this most likely does not mean the presence of influenza, but some kind of secondary infection such as pneumonia.

Also, with the flu there is such a characteristic symptom as subtle pain in the muscles of the body, especially in the limbs (ache). This symptom can be characteristic both of the early stage of the disease, appearing several hours before the temperature rises, and for the period when the temperature has already risen. Respiratory symptoms with influenza are usually erased compared to ARVI. In most cases, with the flu there is no runny nose, but a severe cough may be present.

Influenza, unlike ARVI, is dangerous due to its complications affecting other organs - the heart, kidneys, lungs, liver. A severe form of influenza is very dangerous - toxic flu, in which death from intoxication of the body is possible.

Influenza is usually transmitted by airborne droplets, from sick to healthy people. The influenza virus is quite resistant to external influences and can persist in the external environment for a long time. The incubation period of the disease usually ranges from several hours to several days.

Experts believe that influenza most often manifests itself at ambient temperatures ranging from –5ºС to +5ºС. At these temperatures the virus can survive for a long time. In addition, such a temperature regime helps dry out the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract and makes them more susceptible to the virus.

There are several types of influenza virus. And not all drugs are able to affect all these types. Treatment of influenza is mainly symptomatic. Taking antiviral drugs for influenza is indicated in cases of severe disease, as well as in cases of weakened immunity. These can be both etiotropic drugs and drugs that stimulate the immune system. Thanks to their use, it is often possible to shorten the duration of the disease and avoid possible severe complications.

How does a viral disease develop?

Unlike diseases caused by bacteria, viruses that enter the body directly attack human cells. The virus is usually very simple. As a rule, it is a single DNA molecule, and sometimes a simpler RNA molecule containing genetic information. In addition, the virus also contains a shell of proteins. However, some types of viruses - viroids - may not have it either.

Viruses are able to integrate into the genetic apparatus of cells and reconfigure it to release their own copies. Viruses cannot reproduce without the help of cells from other organisms.

Structural features of viruses that cause ARVI and influenza

Most viruses included in this group are RNA viruses. The only exception is an adenovirus, which has a DNA molecule.

Influenza viruses are divided into three main serotypes - A, B, and C. Most often, diseases are caused by the first two types. The type C virus causes illness only in immunocompromised people, children and the elderly. There are no epidemics of diseases caused by this type of virus, while epidemics caused by viruses of types A and B occur very often - once every few years in a certain area.

The surface of the RNA molecule of the virus is covered with several protein molecules, among which neuraminidase should be highlighted. This enzyme facilitates the penetration of the virus into the cell and then ensures the release of new viral particles from it. Influenza viruses primarily infect epithelial cells lining the surface of the upper respiratory tract.

Of course, the immune system is not sitting idle either. Immune cells, having detected the presence of strangers, produce special substances - interferons, which suppress the activity of viruses and prevent their penetration into cells. In addition, special types of lymphocytes - T-killer cells and NK lymphocytes destroy cells affected by viruses.

However, viral diseases, including those caused by influenza viruses, claim many lives every year.

The peculiarity of viruses is their increased ability to mutate. This leads to the fact that protein molecules on the surface of viruses can very quickly change their composition, and as a result, immune forces are not always able to recognize them in time as a previously encountered object.

Therefore, scientists have long wanted to develop agents that would be active against various viruses. However, such a task faces many difficulties. They consist, first of all, in the fact that viral particles are very small and have an extremely primitive structure, even compared to bacteria. This means that they have very few vulnerabilities.

However, some antiviral agents have been developed. In particular, many of them are active against viruses that cause ARVI and influenza.

Types of antiviral drugs

Antiviral agents aimed directly at combating viruses can be divided into four main groups:

• vaccines;
• immunostimulants and interferon inducers;
• drugs containing interferon;
• direct acting antiviral drugs (etiotropic).

There are many antiviral agents belonging to different groups, and it is not easy to identify the most effective drug among them.

Antiviral vaccines

Vaccination was invented at the end of the 18th century. Over time, it began to be widely used as a prophylactic agent to combat various diseases, including viral ones.

The essence of vaccination is to give the body's immune system information about the infectious agent in advance. The fact is that the immune system often recognizes the danger too late, when the infection has already spread throughout the body. And if the immune system is configured in advance to fight the desired agent, then it will instantly enter into a fight with it and easily neutralize it.

When vaccinated against viruses, a vaccine is injected into the blood - a substance containing the protein shells of viruses, or somehow weakened viruses. These components are unable to cause disease, but are capable of training immune cells to fight invaders. Thus, if real viruses enter the body, then, as a rule, they are neutralized very quickly. Immunity obtained through vaccines can last for many years.

As for influenza, there are several types of viruses that cause this disease. There are vaccines for most of them.

Vaccines can be of several types. There are vaccines containing live but weakened viruses. There are also vaccines containing inactivated virus components. Typically, one vaccine contains material from several varieties of viruses, which is regularly updated in accordance with the mutations to which the substances that make up the shells of these infectious agents undergo.

Flu vaccination, first of all, should be given to people in certain risk groups:

• Age over 65 years;
• Having respiratory diseases;
• Taking drugs that suppress the immune system, cytostatics, corticosteroids;
• Patients with diabetes;
• Children;
• Women in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy.

Unlike influenza, there are currently no vaccines to prevent ARVI.

Antiviral agents that enhance immunity

Any virus that enters the body encounters its protective forces - immunity. Human immunity is divided into two types: specific and nonspecific. Specific immunity is developed against specific type infectious agents, and nonspecific has universal action and can be directed against any type of infection. Antiviral drugs based on enhancing immunity use its nonspecific variety.

Preparations with interferons

This class of antiviral agents contains interferons, special substances secreted by immune cells to fight viruses. Typically, interferon in such antiviral drugs is obtained artificially using special bacteria. Interferon attaches to cell walls and prevents viruses from entering them. On the other hand, viruses are able to block the production of interferon from cells, thereby facilitating their penetration into them. Thus, drugs containing interferon are designed to compensate for the lack of natural interferon observed during viral infections.

Information about the effectiveness of antiviral drugs of this class is contradictory. Many people claim that they helped them, although the results of clinical trials do not allow us to speak with confidence about these drugs as an effective remedy. In addition, they tend to have a lot side effects. Among them, it is worth noting the high likelihood of allergic reactions.

The list of popular drugs of this type includes Grippferon, Alfaron, Interferon, Viferon, Kipferon.

Viferon

The drug contains interferon type alpha 2b. Escherichia coli bacteria were used in the synthesis of this substance. The drug also contains vitamins C and E. The drug can be used as an antiviral medicine. It is active against pathogens of major respiratory infections, as well as hepatitis and herpes viruses.

Kipferon

A drug for the treatment of influenza and ARVI. The medicine is available in the form of suppositories. Contains immunoglobulins and human leukocyte interferon. Fat and paraffin are used as additional components. The drug is active not only against viruses (ARVI, influenza and hepatitis viruses) but also against a number of bacterial infections, in particular chlamydia.

Grippferon

Available as a solution for nasal use, it contains human leukocyte interferon and has immunomodulatory properties. It also contains some excipients. Intended mainly for the treatment of viral infections of the upper respiratory tract.

Antiviral immunostimulating agents

Unlike interferons, antiviral immunostimulating agents do not attack viruses directly, but stimulate the immune system to produce its own interferons. These are inexpensive but quite effective means. The advantage of this type of drugs, compared with drugs containing interferon, is that they are much less likely to cause side effects in the form of allergic reactions. Examples of such drugs are Ingavir, Kagocel, Cycloferon, Lavomax, Tsitovir. It is difficult to say for sure which of them is most effective for acute respiratory viral infections. They all differ somewhat in their effects and contraindications, and in order to know which one to choose, it is best to seek advice from a specialist.

The effectiveness of antiviral immunostimulating agents, judging by reviews, is quite high. However, many people who are passionate about such remedies do not think about how often they can drink them. Doctors warn about the harm that can result from uncontrolled use of immune stimulants. The fact is that with regular use of stimulants, the functioning of one’s own immunity occurs. The body gets used to the stimulation and is unable to respond to the infection on its own, which can cause complications of infectious diseases. The second danger associated with immune stimulants is that immune cells can begin to attack the body's own tissues, which is the cause of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's syndrome, lupus erythematosus, and some others.

Tsitovir

Contains bendazole, a substance that stimulates the formation of interferons. Other active substances are ascorbic acid and thymogen, which increase the body’s resistance to infection. Available in three main dosage forms - capsules, syrup and powder for solution. Can be used as a medicine to help against influenza and ARVI.

Kagocel

One of the best-selling drugs on the Russian market. Developed in the late 1980s. in Soviet Union. One of the main active ingredients is obtained from cotton and is a gossypol copolymer. Another component is cellulose glycolic acid. The combination of these components leads to increased secretion of interferon by immune cells. It should be noted that pure gossypol is known as a drug that negatively affects male spermatogenesis. And although the developers claim that the preparation contains an insignificant amount of this substance in its pure form, this circumstance makes us wary.

Amiksin

A drug that stimulates the production of various types of interferons - leukocyte (alpha type), gamma, and fibroblast interferon. A powerful remedy that is active against various viruses, including viruses that cause ARVI, herpes and hepatitis. The drug was developed in the United States about half a century ago, but was soon banned there due to its side effects. In particular, it was found that the main component of the drug can cause damage to the retina. However, in countries former USSR This drug is actively sold under various brand names.

Cycloferon

Currently, this is one of the most popular drugs from the class of immunostimulants on the market. The active substance is meglumine acridone acetate. The drug can be administered into the body parenterally or taken in tablet form. Judging by the reviews, the drug has a high effect. However, it is interesting to note that the main active ingredient was originally used in veterinary medicine. But a few years after the start of its use in this capacity, the drug was registered as medicine for the treatment of infectious diseases in humans. At the same time, manufacturers recommend using the drug even for treating children over 4 years old.

Antiviral etiotropic drugs (direct-acting drugs)

This type of drug acts directly on influenza or ARVI viruses. In this case, mechanisms may be used that impede the replication of the virus or its penetration into cells. Some drugs may also have a mild stimulating effect on the immune system.

Amantadins

These are first-generation antiviral etiotropic drugs, otherwise called M2 channel blockers. The mechanism of their action is based on disruption of the functioning of certain enzymes that ensure the reproduction of the virus in the cell. The main drugs of the class are deytiforin, amantadine, midantan and rimantadine. Amantadines are also effective against some other types of viruses, such as adenoviruses and herpes viruses.

Remantadine

One of the first representatives of the group of direct-acting antiviral drugs. At the time of its introduction (early 1960s), it seemed like a real breakthrough in the fight against influenza. The medicine has shown its effectiveness in many clinical trials.

The drug was developed in the USA, but in the Soviet Union the pharmaceutical industry also quickly launched the production of this drug. With its help, it was possible to significantly reduce the time spent on treating patients with influenza, which resulted in significant cost savings throughout the Soviet economy.

However, it soon became clear that influenza viruses quickly developed resistance to this drug and mutated in such a way that they became practically invulnerable to it. Recent studies show that more than 90% of influenza viruses are resistant to rimantadine, which makes it practically useless in the treatment of this disease.

In addition, the drug was initially active only against influenza virus type A and did not affect type B viruses. Thus, rimantadine in terms of treating influenza today is of rather historical interest. However, this medicine cannot be called completely useless, since it turned out that it is effective against the tick-borne encephalitis virus.

Remantadine is available in two main dosage forms - 50 mg tablets and syrup. The standard duration of treatment is 5 days, under certain conditions this time can be extended to two weeks.

Neuramidase inhibitors

These are more modern and efficient antiviral drugs direct action. Their antiviral mechanism is based on blocking an enzyme that allows the virus to leave the infected cell and also penetrate healthy cells. Since the virus cannot penetrate the cell, it is easily destroyed by the body’s immune forces. Today, drugs in this group are most often used among direct-acting viral etiotropic drugs intended to combat influenza.

The main representatives of the class are oseltamivir, marketed under the brand name Tamiflu, and the drug Relenza (zanamivir). There is also a new generation drug - Peramivir (Rapivab), which has shown high effectiveness against uncomplicated influenza. This drug is intended primarily for parenteral administration.

However, it is worth noting that drugs in this group have a number of disadvantages. In the case of mild, uncomplicated flu, their effectiveness is usually relatively low, but the number of side effects is quite high. Neuramydiase inhibitors are also quite toxic. The incidence of side effects when taking them is 1.5%. Medicines are prescribed with caution to patients with a tendency to bronchospasm. In addition, they cannot be classified as cheap drugs.

Tamiflu

This drug was developed in the USA in the late 1980s. Initially it was planned to be used in the fight against the AIDS virus, but then it turned out that oseltamivir is not dangerous for this virus. However, instead, the drug was found to be active against influenza types A and B. The drug is most effective in severe forms of influenza due to its ability to suppress the formation of cytokines and prevent inflammation and an excessive immune response in the form of a cytokine storm. Today, this drug probably leads the rating in terms of effectiveness among other etiotropic drugs.

When choosing a dosage, you should take into account the patient’s condition, the nature of the disease, and the presence of chronic diseases. The standard duration of treatment is 5 days, dosage is 75-150 mg.

However, it is worth noting that the drug does not act against ARVI pathogens. In addition, an overdose of the drug and its uncontrolled use, including for preventive purposes, can lead to very serious health consequences, for example, mental disorders.

Relenza

Like Tamiflu, it belongs to the group of neuramidase inhibitors. This is an effective antiviral drug, a structural analogue of sialic acid. Unlike oseltamivir, this flu medicine is not produced in tablets, but in special blisters intended for use in an inhaler - a diskhaler. This method allows you to deliver the drug directly to the respiratory tract affected by the virus and ensure the most effective effect of the drug on the infectious agent.

Arbidol

A domestic drug that was developed back in the 1980s. The active substance is umifenovir. Unlike neuraminidase inhibitors, the action of umifenovir is aimed at inhibiting another viral protein, hemagglutinin. However, this method also prevents the virus from entering cells. In addition, the drug is capable of providing moderate stimulation of the body's immune forces. Arbidol can also treat not only the flu, but also ARVI. A structural analogue of this drug, Arpetol, is produced in Belarus.

Reviews about the drug are mostly positive. However, one cannot help but be alarmed by the fact that the only serious study of the effectiveness of the drug was sponsored by its manufacturer, the Pharmstandard company. Therefore, today Arbidol cannot be unambiguously classified as a drug with proven effectiveness.

Rebetol

This drug is not designed to fight influenza viruses, but to fight other viruses such as rhinosyncytial virus. This infection most often occurs in children, in whom it occurs in a complex form. However, it can also be used as an anti-influenza drug, although with less effect. In addition, the drug can be used in the treatment of herpes. For acute respiratory viral infections, the drug is administered to the site of inflammation using inhalation. Other names of the drug are Virazol and Ribavirin. The drug is contraindicated during pregnancy.

Symptomatic drugs

Contrary to popular belief, these drugs are not antiviral. They are intended only to relieve the unpleasant symptoms of influenza and ARVI - pain and fever. However, this does not deny the fact that symptomatic medications are good remedy for a cold. They usually contain anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-inflammatory drugs - paracetamol, acetylsalicylic acid, ibuprofen, sometimes antioxidants - ascorbic acid, and less often - antihistamines and vasoconstrictors such as phenylephinephrine. Thus, they have no effect on influenza or ARVI viruses. Although the names of many such drugs can mislead the inexperienced person. For example, the symptomatic drug Theraflu can be confused with the etiotropic drug Tamiflu.

There are also combination drugs, including etiotropic and symptomatic drugs - for example, Anvivir, containing rimantadine and paracetamol.

It should be noted that the simultaneous prescription of interferon inducers and antipyretics, which is practiced by some doctors, does not make much sense. Indeed, when the temperature rises, on the contrary, there is an increase in the production of interferon, and an artificial decrease in temperature reduces this process to nothing.

Homeopathic remedies

It is worth noting such a type of medicine as homeopathic remedies for the treatment of viral diseases of the upper respiratory tract. There are fierce debates around homeopathy; it has both supporters and opponents. However, it is undeniable that almost all homeopathic medicines do not directly affect viruses, and therefore it is very difficult to classify them as antiviral. For example, such a popular French anti-flu drug as Oscillococcinum contains liver components from musky duck as an active component. In this case, it is not entirely clear on what basis such a component was classified as an effective remedy against influenza and colds. Nevertheless, the drug is actively sold and enjoys traditional popularity, including in our country. Needless to say, this kind of drugs is an obvious example of the use by clever businessmen of the self-hypnosis effect (placebo effect) characteristic of people.

Antiviral drugs for influenza and ARVI - benefit or harm?

In our country, the incidence of respiratory diseases is especially high, given the cold climate, long winter and off-season. All this creates a demand for drugs for colds and flu. Of course, pharmaceutical manufacturers cannot ignore such a potentially huge market. And they fill it with drugs of sometimes dubious quality and dubious effectiveness, promoting them with the help of aggressive advertising, claiming that the best drug today is this particular drug and no other. Currently, a person who comes to a pharmacy, as a rule, has no difficulty in choosing antiviral drugs. There are a lot of them, for every taste, and among them there are many drugs that are affordable. But, as you know, free cheese only comes in a mousetrap.

As shown above, there are no ideal antiviral drugs. Interferon drugs have many side effects, and these are of a kind that can appear after a long time. Nowadays, more and more information is accumulating that their regular use increases the risk of autoimmune diseases - lupus erythematosus, Sjögren's syndrome, psoriasis, insulin-dependent diabetes and even cancer. Particular caution should be exercised by those patients who have relatives suffering from autoimmune diseases. Also, drugs of this type should be used with caution when treating children.

In addition, drugs containing interferon can cause severe allergic reactions. In addition, their effectiveness is highly questionable. In principle, the same can be said about antiviral immunostimulants. It is worth noting that in the majority Western countries Such drugs are practically not used. The concept of treating respiratory diseases widespread there recognizes only etiotropic or symptomatic treatment, and antiviral immunomodulators are prescribed to patients only in exceptional cases.

As for etiotropic drugs, they also cannot be called an ideal choice. Although they have a much greater evidence base, their effectiveness is often greatly exaggerated due to advertising by manufacturers. In addition, such old drugs as rimantadine have already lost a significant share of their effectiveness due to the formation of a huge number of virus strains resistant to their action.

Neuramidase inhibitors appear to be most effective. However, they are highly toxic and have a limited spectrum of action, covering only influenza viruses. Therefore, given that they are most effective in the first days after the onset of the disease, they can be used only when there is complete confidence that the disease is caused by the influenza virus and not by something else. And needless to say, at the onset of the disease it is usually not possible to determine the type of pathogen. Otherwise, using these drugs will simply be a waste of money. By the way, this type of drug cannot be called cheap.

The only way to combat viral infections with antiviral drugs that has minimal side effects is vaccination. However, it cannot be considered a panacea. It has some limitations, since there are a huge number of flu strains and it is absolutely impossible to come up with a vaccine that would be effective against everyone. To some extent, however, this is compensated by the fact that biological material, contained in vaccines, is constantly updated.

Therefore, you should think about whether it is worth using this kind of treatment at all, which can bring more problems than the disease itself. It should be noted that most people underestimate the strength of their own immunity. Following simple rules - bed rest, plenty of warm drinks, taking vitamins and a proper diet in most cases puts a person on his feet in about the same time as treatment with new-fangled antiviral drugs. Their use may still be justified for influenza with high fever, but the use of the same immunomodulators in the treatment of ARVI is not recommended at all.

Also, do not overuse symptomatic medications. After all, the same high temperature is the body’s protective reaction to the invasion of viruses and bacteria. At high temperature The production of interferons increases, making the body's cells immune to viral infection. By artificially lowering the temperature, we actually prevent the body from fighting infection. Therefore, you should not lower the temperature, at least if it does not cross the critical mark of +39º degrees.

The situation is further complicated by the peculiarities of our mentality. It is no secret that many people, faced with acute respiratory infections and the flu, do not strive to be cured, but simply to quickly return to their normal lives, go to work, etc. This not only leads to the fact that everyone around them becomes infected, but also to the fact that as a result the person does not treat the disease, which becomes chronic. A cold suffered on the legs has a much more harmful effect on the body than refusing to take antiviral medications.

However, most people understand that this behavior is not correct, but resort to another, seemingly more correct, remedy - swallowing packs of antiviral agents. And at the same time, it seems that he is really getting better, but at the same time he is destroying his body. Meanwhile, it’s worth thinking about the fact that health is much more valuable than a couple of extra days spent on sick leave.

Of course, these tips are suitable for people with healthy immune systems. However, not everyone can boast of it. Nowadays there are many people whose immunity is weakened. In them, the disease may drag on, which ultimately threatens various complications. In this case, taking antiviral tablets is justified. However, the fact of having a weakened immune system should be established not on the basis of individual sensations - I have a runny nose every month, which means I need to buy drugs with interferons or immunomodulators, but on the basis of thorough research into the state of the immune system. The selection of antiviral drugs must also be careful. The doctor should advise which one is best suited in a particular case. The drug must be used in accordance with its recommendations and instructions.

And, of course, treatment with these drugs should not be perceived as natural. Having been cured once with the help of antiviral drugs, you should not rely on the fact that miracle drugs will help get rid of the disease the next time. Measures should be taken to strengthen the immune system. There are many natural ways to do this - hardening, regular walks in the fresh air, proper nutrition and daily routine, proper rest, activities physical culture and sports.

Also, measures aimed at preventing diseases should not be ignored. It should be taken into account that influenza and ARVI viruses are quite resistant to unfavorable factors and can exist in the external environment for a long time. Therefore, it is necessary to regularly carry out hygiene procedures, especially during periods of increased morbidity - wash your hands after coming from the street, regularly rinse your mouth and rinse the nasal cavity, avoid communicating with patients with respiratory diseases. Chronic diseases should also be treated promptly, since it is well known that viruses multiply most intensively in the body, weakened by the fight against chronic diseases. And, of course, it’s worth getting rid of bad habits. After all, it is well known that smoking significantly weakens the immune forces of the tissues of the upper respiratory tract, which leads to increased vulnerability to infectious diseases, including viral ones.

It is also necessary to take into account that it is necessary to start antiviral therapy with drugs as early as possible, at the first signs of the disease. Otherwise, the treatment will not be effective.

In addition, before starting treatment with antiviral drugs, you should make sure that the respiratory disease is actually caused by viruses and not bacteria. Otherwise, antiviral therapy will be completely useless.

Popular antivirus products, type

With the onset of the first cold weather, the season of respiratory viral diseases “opens.” Everyone gets sick, from young to old. That's why our magazine decided to analyze the market of modern antiviral drugs and tell your readers everything you need to know about this group of drugs. We also compiled TOP of the best budget funds for different age categories of patients.

The main thing in the article

Which antiviral drugs are most effective?

Viruses enter the human body through inhalation through the upper respiratory tract. Antiviral drugs block their spread. To understand the principle of action of antiviral agents, let us turn to biological processes. The virus, entering the body, invades the cell and actively multiplies in it. Its specific proteins (neuraminidases) inhibit the cell’s ability to produce a protective substance interferon , so the affected cells lose the ability to resist the virus. As for antiviral drugs, these drugs are divided into groups, and 4 of them can be considered the most effective in the fight against colds.

1. Antiviral products containing antihistamines and immunomodulators (Anaferon, Arbidol). They have a chemical effect on virus replication and promote the production of their own interferon.
2. Products containing interferon (Grippferon, Alfarona). Interferon is a natural protein structure that makes the body’s cells immune to viral cells.
3. Interferon inducers (Kagocel, Lavomax). They activate processes in the body that awaken cells to their own production of interferon.
4. Neuraminidase inhibitors (Tamiflu, Relenza). The drugs inhibit neuraminidases (specific proteins of the virus), which stops its further progression.

10 most effective antiviral drugs: our rating

Having studied all the market offers, based on reviews from doctors and patients, we have compiled a rating of the most effective antiviral drugs.

Antiviral drug	Release form	Permitted age and dosage	Photo of the drug
Anaferon (Price 180–220 rub.)	Pills	Prescribed to children from 1 month. Take 1 tablet 6 times a day on the first day. On the second day, reduce the dose to 3 tablets.
Aflubin (Price 280–450 rub.)	Drops and lozenges	Prescribed to children: up to one year – 1 drop; from one year to 12 years – 5 drops or 0.5 tablets; children over 12 years of age and adults – 10 drops or 1 tablet.
Arbidol (Price 180–260 rub.)	Available in both capsules and tablets	Prescribed from three years of age. Dose: up to 6 years – 50 mg; 6-12 years – 100 mg; 12 years and older – 200 mg.
Viferon (Price 260–340 rub.)	Suppositories for rectal use with different contents of active ingredient	They can be prescribed one suppository 2 times a day from birth.
Kagocel (Price 220–240 rub.)	Pills	Approved for the treatment of children over 3 years of age. Take 2 tablets 3 times in the first two days. Next, two days, 1 tablet three times a day.
Oscillococcinum (Price 340–400 rub.)	Granules in special tubes	For varying complexity of the disease, 1 dose per day is prescribed.
Remantadine (Price 60–180 rub.)	Capsules, tablets	Allowed from 7 years. The drug is prescribed: from 7 years to 10 – 2 tablets per day; from 11 years to 14 – 3 tablets per day; adults – 6 tablets on the first day, then 4 tablets each.
Ribavirin (Price 120–250 rub.)	Pills	15 mg of the drug per 1 kg of patient weight.
Tamiflu (Price 1230–1500 rub.)	Capsules, powder for suspension	Allowed for children from 1 year old, prescribed depending on the child’s weight. Adults are recommended to take 75 ml twice a day.
Cycloferon (Price 170–320 rub.)	Pills	Prescribed to children from 4 years of age: 4-6 years – one tablet per day; 7-12 years – 3 tablets per day; 12 and older – 3-4 tablets per day

Immunostimulating antiviral drugs: inexpensive but effective

Immunomodulators are drugs that strengthen the body's defenses (), forcing the body to fight bacteria and viruses.

In other words, immunostimulants are the same antiviral agents, the action of which is aimed at activating the production of antibodies. This happens by influencing the body. Effective immunostimulants at a reasonable price include:

• Ingavirin 90. Recommended for symptoms of influenza and ARVI. It is especially effective if treatment was started in the first two days. The course of therapy with Ingavirin is up to 7 days.
• Interferon. Release forms: powder, which, when diluted, is instilled into the nose and eyes, suppositories, intramuscular injections. Acts as a prophylactic agent, and in case of illness it significantly shortens its course.
• Amiksin. A potent drug that actively supports the immune system during acute respiratory viral infections, pulmonary infections, and influenza. The drug is prescribed only after 7 years.

As for the treatment of children, immunostimulating drugs in childhood should be prescribed exclusively by a doctor.

The most effective antiviral drugs for children 1–2 years old

• Immunal. The basis of the product is echinacea, which can be found on sale in the form of drops and tablets. Children over one year of age are given exclusively drops of 1 ml three times a day for simple colds. Tablets are allowed from 4 years of age.
• Cytovir-3. Prescribed as a prophylactic and as an addition to the main treatment for influenza and acute respiratory viral infections. Prescribe 2 ml three times a day. Available in the form of syrup and powder for children. At an older age, taking capsules is acceptable. The latter are allowed for children over 6 years of age.
• Imupret. For children, use a solution of 5 drops three times a day. The drug is based on herbs and is used as a therapy for respiratory viral infections.

The most effective antiviral drugs for children over 3 years old

• Groprinosin. Antiviral medicine for complex therapy of viral infections.
• Hyporamine. The antiviral agent is based on sea buckthorn leaf extract. It is commercially available in tablets that need to be taken 1 twice a day.
• Engystol. A homeopathic remedy prescribed in combination with the main treatment for colds.

Effective antiviral drugs for children 10 years old

The age of 10 years can be called transitional, as bans on solid forms of medications - capsules, tablets - are lifted.

Also at this age it is already possible to use aerosols in treatment. As for the best antiviral drugs, we should highlight:

• Ergoferon.
• Viferon.
• Ingavirin 60.
• Flucid.
• Kipferon.
• Orvirem.
• Relenza.

Are antiviral drugs effective according to Komarovsky: video

Antiviral drugs for adults: which are the most effective?

As discussed above, antiviral drugs are divided into different groups. The doctor, based on the symptoms present, prescribes a certain type.

An adult diagnosed with a cold may be prescribed:

• medications based on interferon, who bring this component from outside - Cycloferon, Viferon;
• immunostimulants, their effect helps to increase the production of one’s own interferon – Kagocel, Tiloron;
• suppressing the virus itself – Ingaverin, Antigripin;
• new generation drugs –Peramivir, Relenza.

What is the most effective antiviral drug for older people?

ARVI and influenza are quite dangerous diseases for older people. Therefore, long sleep and timely balanced meals are so important for them. A doctor should select an antiviral drug for an elderly patient, taking into account chronic pathologies, possible problems with and Most often, they resort to the help of herbal medicines, since they have the smallest range of side effects. Also, one should not forget about vitamins and microelements, since a “worn-out” elderly body needs them especially urgently.

For therapy, as well as as a prevention of colds, the elderly are prescribed:

• Arbidol;
• Amiksin;
• Altabor.

Antiviral drugs during pregnancy

As you know, pregnant women are not recommended to take medications, but what should you do if you have flu or cold symptoms? Then you cannot do without specific antiviral drugs, since these diseases are a direct threat to the normal course of pregnancy.

You cannot self-prescribe an antiviral drug. This should be done by a specialist, taking into account the period and characteristics of gestation.

In the first trimester of pregnancy, the use of antiviral drugs is undesirable; doctors recommend avoiding folk remedies, but there are times when you have to resort to drug treatment. Most often, pregnant women are prescribed Viferon suppositories, homeopathic remedies such as Anaferon or Oscillococcinum, as well as antiviral drugs Tamiflu or Zanamavir.

Domestic antiviral drugs are inexpensive but effective

Domestic drugs aimed at fighting viruses are in no way inferior to their “foreign” counterparts, but their price is much lower. The most popular and widely prescribed domestic drugs include the following:

We also advise you to pay attention to the table below; it shows analogs of expensive antiviral agents that cost much less.

Antiviral drugs effective for prevention

If we talk about antiviral drugs that can act as preventive drugs, then the truly effective ones include:

• Anaferon.
• Orvirem.
• Grippferon.
• Viferon.

90% of people who take antiviral drugs during an epidemic do not encounter influenza and ARVI. And for those who do get sick, the contagious period is shortened.

The most effective preventive measure is vaccination, which is done before the outbreak of an epidemic. Do not forget about maintaining immunity with the help of a healthy lifestyle, food, and immune-strengthening traditional medicine.

Antiviral drugs effective against influenza

Truly effective remedies for influenza include the so-called new remedies that have been on the market for no more than 10–15 years. Viruses have not yet developed immunity to the active substance of such drugs. These include:

• Rimantadine. Capable of stopping the virus reproduction process. It is most effective when taken in the first days of the disease.
• Relenza. This is a powder intended for inhalation; it comes with a Diskhaler for inhaling the powder. Relenza works well against influenza viruses of groups A and B.
• Tamiflu. Targets viruses that cause influenza groups A and B, as well as swine flu.

Antiviral drugs effective against ARVI

Autumn is a “favorable” time for the development of colds. In the autumn-winter period, up to 85% of people get sick with ARVI in one form or another. To avoid and minimize the manifestation of the disease, you can use the following antiviral agents:

• Cyclic amines:Remavir, Rematadine.
• Herbal remedies : Immunoflazide, Altabor, Flavazide.
• Interferons:Grippferon, Viferon.
• Neuraminidase inhibitors:Zanamivir, Oseltamivir.
• Interferon inducers:Arpeflu, Immusstat, Arbivir.

The most effective antiviral drugs for angina

Sore throat can also be cured with antiviral medications. For this purpose, drugs with an extended spectrum of action are chosen. In most cases, doctors prescribe interferons, as they have pronounced antiviral activity. Thanks to this property, painful flora cannot penetrate deep into the soft tissues of the larynx. Effective antiviral drugs for sore throat include:

• Relenza.
• Viburcol.
• Neovir.
• Immunal.

Antiviral drugs for herpes

Almost all people have a latent herpes virus in their body. For some, under the influence of certain reasons, it is activated, and antiviral drugs come in handy. Drugs that can “fight” the herpes virus include:

• Galavit. It is an immunomodulator that relieves inflammation while stimulating the body's defenses.
• Isoprinosine. Prescribed for the treatment of infectious diseases caused by a virus. Prevents the virus from multiplying.
• Valtrex. Capable of blocking the proliferation of viral cells.
• Famvir. Mainly prescribed for herpes zoster.

Effective antiviral drugs: reviews

Yulia_Sha: When my children just start getting sick, Derinat is never without antiviral drops. I really like the drug! If you start using it at the very beginning of the disease, it is super effective.

Alexander: During epidemics, I am saved by Ingaverin. Gets you on your feet very quickly. But in my opinion it can only be used for adults. For very busy people it is convenient to take just 1 capsule per day. In general, Ingaverin is still in first place for me in the treatment of ARVI.

MomKatya: So they made a fuss that “ferrons” are useless, they are just pumping money out of the population. I have three small children, and own experience I will say that Oscillococcinum and Anaferon simply help us out a lot. I tried everything, but these drugs 100% help in the treatment of ARVI. If we started giving the drug in the early stages of the disease, then we manage not to get sick, we continue to go to kindergarten, the temperature is maximum for one day, if we are a little late, then we still go on sick leave, but the virus is noticeably easier to tolerate and we recover faster. Always in my first aid kit.

Fox-Alice: And I treat my children with Orvirem syrup. It helps very well, if I’m not mistaken, you can give it for 3 months, the virus instantly recedes.

During the cold season, colds lurk everywhere. Influenza, rhinoviruses and enteroviruses, herpes and respiratory syncytial virus - antiviral tablets will help you cope with them. Their use will reduce symptoms and prevent the virus from multiplying, eliminating the disease in a matter of days.

Available tablets are effective in treating viral diseases

Benefits of antiviral drugs in tablets

The tablet form of antiviral drugs has several important advantages over injections, suppositories, powders and mixtures.

1. Ease of use: tablets can be carried with you and taken on a schedule.
2. No pain or local reactions – redness, burning, swelling.
3. Efficacy: Tablets and capsules take a little longer to be absorbed, but have a stronger effect and last longer than powders and syrups.
4. Cost: Tablet medications are inexpensive and do not require supplies or nurse fees.

Classification of antiviral agents

All antiviral drugs can be divided into 5 large groups:

• anti-influenza drugs, which include M2 ​​channel blockers and viral neuraminidase inhibitors;
• antiretroviral drugs used for HIV infection;
• tablets with an extended spectrum of activity;
• antiherpetic and anticytomegalovirus drugs.

List of anti-flu tablets

Antiviral drugs used against influenza and acute respiratory viral infections are divided into M2 channel blockers and neuraminidase inhibitors.

1. Group I blocks the ion channels of viral particles, preventing the viral DNA from bifurcating and preventing it from multiplying.
2. Group II blocks the synthesis of neuraminidase, which helps remove the virus from infected cells and prevents its further reproduction.

There are only 4 active substances with proven effectiveness used for influenza - the M2 channel blockers amantadine and rimantadine, as well as the neuraminidase inhibitors oseltamivir and zanamivir. The latter drug is produced in Russia only in powder form, so it will not be considered.

Amantadine derivative, M2 channel blocker. 1 tablet contains 50 or 100 mg of rimantadine. Treatment occurs by inhibiting viral DNA before initial RNA transcription. It is used in the treatment and prevention of influenza, as well as tick-borne encephalitis.

Appearance of the box in the photo:

Packaging of Remantadine tablets

Contraindications: liver and kidney diseases, pregnancy, thyrotoxicosis.

Release form: 10 tablets or capsules in a blister, 1 or 2 blisters in a pack.

Price: 70-230 rubles.

A product based on oseltamivir, one capsule contains 75 mg of active substance. Neuroamindase inhibitor blocks and inhibits the growth of the virus in the body. It is used for influenza types A and B, when typical symptoms appear: cough, runny nose, headache, fever.

The drug Tamiflu blocks the action of the virus in the body

Contraindications: renal failure, intolerance to oseltamivir.

Release form: 10 tablets in a blister, 1 blister in a pack.

Price: 1200-1250 rubles.

Cheap pills Russian production, blocking M2 channels. Active ingredient: amantadine, 100 mg in 1 tablet. A viral DNA inhibitor used to treat influenza and ARVI, as well as Parkinson's disease.

Midantan - affordable Russian tablets

Contraindications: glaucoma, hypotension, pregnancy, epilepsy, psychosis.

Release form: 100 tablets in a dark glass jar.

Price: 120-125 rubles.

Review of antiherpetic and anticytomegalovirus drugs

Antiherpetic, or “anti-cold”, drugs include nucleoside analogues. These agents block the synthesis of viral DNA and prevent it from doubling. Thus, the herpes virus cannot reproduce and dies. Anticytomegalovirus drugs act on the same principle.

The cost of these drugs depends on the active substance: more modern and powerful drugs cost 4-5 times more than their outdated analogues, but their use is only advisable for a resistant strain of the virus.

A drug with the same active ingredient, one tablet contains 200 or 400 mg of acyclovir. Inhibits DNA synthesis, disrupting the reproduction of the virus in the body. The medicine is used for herpes, incl. genital, with herpes zoster, chicken pox and immunodeficiency conditions.

The drug Famvir contains the substance famciclovir.

Contraindications: hypersensitivity to the components of the drug and penciclovir.

Release form: 10 tablets with a dosage of 125 mg, 21 tablets with a dosage of 250 mg.

Price: 1540-4230 rubles.

Zovirax is based on the substance acyclovir

Contraindications: hypersensitivity to the active substance, age under 3 years.

Release form: 25 tablets in a cardboard package.

Price: 490-540 rubles.

Good and strong antiherpetic tablets. The active ingredient is valacyclovir, 1 tablet contains a dose of 500 mg. Blocks viral DNA synthesis, preventing viruses from spreading. It is used for herpes zoster, cytomegalovirus infection, and recurrent diseases of the skin and mucous membranes caused by the herpes virus.

Valtrex helps in the treatment of herpes and lichen

Contraindications: hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.

Release form: 10 or 42 tablets per package.

Price: 1200-3250 rubles.

List of pills for HIV

Antiretroviral drugs are immunomodulatory drugs used for the prevention and treatment of HIV. They are not able to cure the infection, but they reduce the symptoms of its manifestation and protect the immune system of the infected person.

ARVs are divided into nucleoside and non-nucleoside HIV reverse transcriptase inhibitors, protease and integrase inhibitors, receptor and fusion inhibitors. The drugs of these groups act differently, but they all prevent the virus from mutating and modifying RNA.

HIV protease inhibitor, 1 tablet contains 100 mg of ritonavir. Selectively inhibits viral DNA. Suitable for adults and children over 4 years of age with HIV infection; to achieve the effect, you must take 600 mg of the substance once.

Ritonavir is used for HIV infection

Release form: 60 tablets in a plastic jar.

Price: 1300-2250 rubles.

Abacavir

Nucleoside HIV reverse transcriptase inhibitor, guanine analogue. 1 tablet contains 300 mg of the active ingredient of the same name. Causes RNA chain termination, stopping viral replication. It is used during combination therapy and for prophylaxis against human immunodeficiency virus.

Contraindications: liver disease, age under 3 months, lactation period.

Release form: 10 capsules in a blister, 6 blisters in a cardboard box.

Price: 980-2100 rubles.

The first antiretroviral drug, a thymidine analogue. 1 capsule contains 100 mg of zidovudine. Inhibits HIV reverse transcriptase, destroying the virus and preventing it from multiplying. It is used in the complex treatment of HIV infection, as well as as a method of protecting the fetus from HIV infection if the mother is infected.

Zidovudine is an effective antiviral drug

Contraindications: anemia, leukopenia, hypersensitivity.

Release form: 10 capsules in a blister, 1 blister in a pack.

Price: 685-1800 rubles.

Broad spectrum tablets

Drugs with an extended spectrum of activity include early and late interferons that stimulate the immune system, as well as synthetic nucleoside analogs that are used in the fight against hepatitis and different types fevers.

Sometimes this group includes antiviral drugs of plant origin, such as Anaferon, Giporamin and Ergoferon lozenges. Official medicine does not recognize these remedies: homeopathic medicines have not confirmed their effectiveness in any study.

The best tablets for colds, a broad-spectrum drug. 1 tablet contains 12 mg of the active ingredient of the same name. Synthesizes the so-called in the body. “late interferon”, which fights the infection over the next 4-5 days. Used for influenza and ARVI in adults and children, treats herpes.

Kagocel is a broad-spectrum drug

Release form: 10 tablets in a blister. 1 blister per package.

Price: 210-260 rubles.

Cycloferon

A fast-acting drug from Russian manufacturers, used for herpes and acute forms of influenza. The active ingredient is meglumine acridone acetate, 1 tablet contains 150 mg. Synthesizes interferon, suppresses viral replication early stages infections, improves immunity. Suitable for adults and children over 4 years old. Early age may make it difficult to swallow pills.

Release form: 10 tablets in a blister, from 1 to 5 blisters per package.

Price: 180-210 rubles.

Modern and safe tablets, the active ingredient is pentanedioic acid imidazolylethanamide. Children's tablets contain 60 mg, adults - 90 mg in each tablet. Suppresses virus reproduction during the nuclear phase and is used to treat influenza and acute respiratory viral infections.

Ingavirin is a modern antiviral drug

Contraindications: individual intolerance to the drug.

Release form: 7 tablets per package.

Price: 420-510 rubles.

Effective Soviet immunoboosting tablets. The active ingredient is hydroxyethylammonium methylphenoxyacetate, contained in an amount of 200 mg in one tablet. Stimulates the production of interferons, strengthening the immune system. It is used for reduced immunity, to increase physical and mental performance, for hypoxia and hypothermia, and alcoholism.

Trekrezan - immunoboosting tablets

Contraindications: age under 12 years, lactose intolerance.

Release form: 10 tablets in a blister, 1 or 2 blisters in a pack. It can also be produced in a glass jar, containing 50 tablets.

Price: 250-520 rubles.

A product with a wide spectrum of activity that fights viruses that affect DNA and RNA. The active ingredient is ribavirin, 200 mg in 1 tablet. Used for hepatitis C, Lassa fever and hemorrhagic fever. The pharmacological action has not yet been fully established.

Ribavirin is a broad-spectrum agent

Release form: 10 tablets in a blister, 3 or 6 blisters in a package.

Price: 210-390 rubles.

Any viral infection can greatly harm your health and leave you bedridden for a long time. Taking appropriate antiviral drugs will not only speed up recovery, but will also help avoid complications of ARVI, herpes, influenza, and also prevent HIV or help strengthen the immune system.

Modern medicine is constantly improving and developing, however, despite scientific and technical achievements in this area, humanity is still forced to fight many dangerous diseases.

For example, people continue to suffer from ancient infectious diseases such as acute respiratory viral infections and influenza. These infections take on epidemic proportions, covering work or educational groups, and even entire regions.

The unpleasant symptoms of ARVI and influenza are known to almost everyone:

• high temperature and fever;
• a sore throat;
• aching joints;
• weakness and apathy.

Fortunately, you may not get sick from these infections, or you may get a much milder form of the infection. The main condition is to take broad-spectrum antiviral drugs, available in pharmacies both with a prescription and without a doctor’s prescription.

The main principle of action of antiviral drugs is to stimulate the body's own defenses.

The immune system, thanks to drug support, begins to actively produce a specific protein, interferon, which acts as an effective immune response to the invasion of pathogenic viruses into the body.

It is interferon that prevents the destructive viral effects on cells, and ultimately destroys the infection.

All numerous broad-spectrum antiviral drugs for acute respiratory infections and influenza are classified into two large groups:

• stimulating the body’s production of its own interferon;
• containing interferon obtained in laboratory conditions.

The specific type of drug that fights viral infections can only be competently prescribed by the attending physician.

Medicines, according to the mechanism of combating viral diseases, are further divided into three categories:

• suppressing the virus itself by inhibiting its ability to reproduce;
• in advance, even before infection, causing the formation of specific antibodies in the body that independently destroy pathogens that have entered the cells - this is a category of vaccines;
• stimulating the immune system, which, due to the active production of interferon, itself destroys the infection.

Each of these medications copes in its own way with restoring health.

There are quite a lot of drugs used in the diagnosis of “Acute respiratory viral infection”, and they are all divided into:

• mechanism of therapeutic effects;
• existing contraindications and side effects;
• value and brand.

What medications will a doctor recommend to a patient with a cold or acute respiratory viral infection?

For example, those already containing interferon:

• Cycloferon;
• Kipferon;
• Viferon.

Or the classics of antiviral pharmacology, which have a powerful, deadly effect on the very source of the disease, time-tested:

• Remantadine;
• Ingavirin;
• Antigrippin.

From the modern arsenal of medicines, new generation antiviral drugs with a wide spectrum of action have performed well:

• Peramivir;
• Relenza.

Among the means that force the body to produce its own interferon, the doctor may recommend:

• Tilron;
• Kagocel.

In addition, the following drugs have clinically proven effectiveness:

• arbidol, destroying, in addition to viruses of strains A and B, infections of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as herpes;
• kagocel, - very effective at the first stage of infection;
• Tamiflu,- effective only against influenza, and useless against other respiratory infections;
• amiksin, — destroys almost all known viral pathogens;
• Viferon, is a mild but effective medicine approved for use in pediatrics in the form of suppositories.

It is important to know! In order to help and not harm the body affected by viruses, in addition to consulting a doctor regarding a specific medicine, you must strictly adhere to its dosage!

A person with a cold can benefit greatly from broad-spectrum antiviral drugs in tablets, prescribed by a physician after a comprehensive examination of the patient.

Medicines in tablet form that eliminate infections are very convenient, and are available in a wide range of brands in the pharmacy chain.

The most popular brands are:

• Oseltamivir;
• Ribavirin;
• Amiksin.

There are available analogues for these tablets:

• Remantadine;
• Ergoferon;
• Ingavirin.

Of the immunomodulator tablets, the cost of which does not exceed 250 rubles per pack of ten doses, we can recommend:

• Cycloferon;
• Arbidol;
• Kagocel.

It is important to know! The price of a drug is not an indicator of its effectiveness! There are many analogues of inexpensive tablets that have the same powerful effect on viral infections as expensive pharmacological brands.

Products for children

Self-medication of infectious diseases of a viral nature is fraught with adverse consequences for adults, but it is especially dangerous for minors.

Only a pediatrician is able, based on research, to make an accurate diagnosis, according to which he will prescribe adequate drug therapy.

Only a pediatrician will be able to professionally monitor the course of the disease and the effect of drug therapy.

As with adults, treatment of children requires strict adherence to dosage.

For what purpose are antiviral drugs prescribed to children? There are several clinical goals, depending on the nature of the disease:

• fight against the virus “for destruction”;
• initiation of one's own immune response;
• restoration of cells destroyed by the virus;
• elimination of inflammatory processes.

When a child, especially an infant, becomes infected with the flu, parents do not spare money on medicines. But there is no need to get hung up on expensive packaging! In pharmacies there are enough names of cheap but strong remedies that can restore children's health:

• Viferon suppositories, safe for infants;
• The French homeopathic remedy Oscillococcinum will not harm a small patient;
• phytoimmunostimulant Immunoflazid, based on medicinal herbs;
• from natural components that do not cause side effects Imupret.

It is important to know! For children who have not reached the first year of extrauterine life, it is extremely important to adhere to the treatment regimen and dose chosen by the pediatrician, and be sure to regularly show the child to the attending physician in order to monitor clinical dynamics.

What is best for a small patient is not pills that he is unable to swallow, but drugs in the form of droplets that gently and delicately restore the body affected by the virus:

• Kipferon;
• Aflubin;
• Anaferon;
• Grippferon.

For an older patient, aged from one to four years, the pediatrician prescribes more active medications of various pharmacological forms:

• drops;
• syrups;
• powders;
• pills;
• suppositories.

These may be means:

• strengthening the immune system - Cycloferon;
• increasing the body's resistance - Anaferon;
• killing influenza viruses - Arbidol;
• homeopathy remedies - Viburcol.

By primary school age, the child’s body is already able to cope with infections independently, producing interferon, and an increase in body temperature is evidence of this. It is customary for such children to be prescribed Amiksin for complications, as well as hepatitis diseases.

For those older than one year but younger than seven, broad-spectrum antiviral drugs for children will help:

• cure the disease caused by strains A and B using Relenza;
• strengthen your own immunity - Cytovir-3.

Pharmacology does not stand still, and its achievements represent a new generation of products - the best broad-spectrum antiviral drugs that specifically affect a specific pathogen:

• expanded scope of clinical activity;
• anticytomegalovirus direction;
• destroying influenza strains;
• coping with the herpes pathogen.

At the same time, all these agents, inhibiting the vital activity of the virion, are classified into two groups:

• destroying the proteins of the virus, and thereby destroying it;
• increasing the body’s protective functions aimed at destroying virions.

What a modern remedy choose?

The most popular in the pharmacy are:

• Amiksin, - for a wide range of antiviral effects and a strong immunostimulating effect, it is used both as a medicine and for preventive purposes;
• Oseltamivir,- for its suppressive effect on neuraminidase, thereby preventing the spread of strains A and B in cells;
• Ingavirin,— for effective suppression of the reproduction of strains at the initial stage of influenza, including parainfluenza, respiratory syncytial and adenoviral infections;
• long-acting Kagocel, the use of which is effective at any stage of the development of the disease - for stimulating the production of interferon and increasing the body's defenses.

Viral diseases are seasonal and are associated with lower ambient temperatures. When it gets cold, the body's defenses drop, and it easily becomes prey to viral infections.

Then many begin to indiscriminately buy medicines from pharmacies:

• arbidol;
• kagocel;
• Theraflu;
• Coldrex;
• Fervex and others.

According to some statistical studies, every year Russian citizens spend at least thirty billion rubles on antiviral drugs. At the same time, some of the drugs do not bring any effect and are just a well-advertised dummy.

So, why not buy medications at all?

In no case! A big misconception would be to treat the flu as a simple ailment: this disease can quickly become severe and even result in death.

To avoid such dangerous consequences of this insidious disease, and also to recover as quickly as possible, you must:

• be sure to seek medical help at a hospital, because only a specialist can identify the specific pathogen and select adequate therapy;
• strictly follow the recommendations of your doctor;
• treated only with high-quality, clinically proven drugs.

The fact is that many medications are good, but their effectiveness applies to a certain type of infection, as well as its stage of development.

The most common causative agents of colds are:

• paremyxoviruses;
• orthomyxoviruses, which include influenza strains A, B and C;
• spherical reoviruses;
• a family of thirty-seven coronaviruses;
• family of picorna and rhinoviruses.

Each of the pathogens has its own characteristic characteristics, based on which the physician chooses the correct drug course.

Antiviral medications for children and adults differ due to the physiological characteristics of the body of different age groups.

For this reason, strong broad-spectrum antiviral drugs for minors and persons over 18 years of age are represented by several names, many of which are specially marked “for children”:

• Cycloferon;
• Ingavirin;
• Tamiflu;
• Amiksin;
• Viferon;
• Ribavirin;
• arbidol;
• Remantadine.

These medications are prescribed when a diagnosis of “influenza” or “ARVI” is established, and in the presence of quickly occurring (literally within one hour) acute symptoms in the form of sudden fever, high temperature, and serious malaise.

It is important to know! Diseases of viral etiology in the earliest stages can easily be confused with banal hypothermia. Therefore, without the results of laboratory tests, it is not recommended to immediately resort to antiviral therapy. It is best to start helping the body with herbal remedies.

Medicines intended to combat pathological viruses are a special group of medicines that are effective against many viral infections.

At the same time, it would be a mistake to believe that all colds with similar symptoms are purely viral in origin.

For example, influenza is manifested by fever, chills, sore throat and muscles and requires antiviral components.

Inexpensive but high-quality broad-spectrum antiviral drugs have an impressive list:

• Ingavirin;
• Orvirem;
• Grippferon;
• Cycloferon;
• Arbidol;
• Tamiflu;
• Relenza.

All these names are suitable for patients over eighteen years of age.

Some people, coming to the pharmacy, feel confused when the pharmacist offers them two almost identical names:

• rimantadine;
• remantadine.

Both are very inexpensive, so what's the difference? Almost nothing. Both clinically tested drugs contain the powerful virus suppressor component rimantadine, which helps with influenza and ARVI in both children and older people.

The following have proven themselves to have a wide therapeutic effect against various infectious agents:

• Arbidol;
• Ingavirin;
• Amiksin.

Thanks to Levomax, many antibodies and other important components of a strong immune response are formed in the bone marrow and lymph nodes.

A distinctive feature of Levomax is the absence of drowsiness and decreased concentration when taken.

It is important to know! Antiviral therapy has contraindications. Pregnant women in the first trimester of pregnancy should be especially careful when taking them.

What medications are safer to take in the third semester? For example, such as:

• Valaciclovir;
• Viferon;
• Genferon.

There is no need to rush to grab a package of anti-virus tablets when you first sneeze! There are many natural herbs and ingredients that support health during epidemics - honey, lemon, raspberries.

The correct daily routine, nutrition and exercise will allow you to purchase antiviral medications as little as possible.

Viruses are microscopic organisms; when they enter a person, they invade the cells of organs, multiply in them and feed on the cellular contents; as a result of such actions, the cell dies. Viral diseases are divided into zoonotic (transmitted from animals to people) and anthroponotic (spread from people to people).

Antiviral drugs are designed to treat diseases caused by viruses: influenza and ARVI. These medications have a certain effect on viral pathogens, which helps stop their reproduction.

Today you can buy various antiviral drugs at the pharmacy, including effective and inexpensive ones. They can be used directly to treat an existing disease, or for prevention.

Operating principle

With the help of antiviral drugs, the causes of the occurrence and development of ARVI are eliminated.

The results of this action are:

1. Reducing the risks of exacerbations of chronic diseases (, etc.).
2. Reducing the duration of a cold by several days, alleviating its symptoms.
3. Reducing the risk that severe complications will appear after suffering an acute respiratory illness.

In the case of a cold, they are also used as emergency prevention when one of the family members is sick and the risk of infecting others needs to be reduced.

What are they?

Based on the principle of action, these drugs are divided into two groups:

• stimulating the immune system to attack viruses;
• directly attacking viruses.

Also antiviral agents, widely used for colds viral diseases and flu in 2019, conditionally divide into several large groups:

1. A group of nucleosides, which includes Acyclovir, Ganciclovir, Vidarabine, Zidovudine, Idoxuridine, Trifluridine, Ribamidili, etc.;
2. Interferon and interferon inducers: Interlock, Reaferon, Laferon, Intron A, Betaferon, Neovir, Poludan;
3. Adamantane derivatives: Remantadine, Midantan, Arbidol, Oxolin, Riodoxol, Florenal, Bonafton, Adapromin, Metisazon;
4. Lipid derivatives, the main representative is Saquinavir;
5. Ladolcarbolic acid derivatives: Foscarnet;
6. Thiosemicarbazone derivatives: Metisazone;
7. Plant origin: Flacoside, Alpidarin, Cholepin, Ligosin, Gossypol.

In addition, there are two large groups based on the principle of action:

1. Immunostimulants – drugs that enhance nonspecific immunity for a short period of time promote the production of interferon.
2. Vaccines are special serums that stimulate the secretion of antibodies even before the onset of the disease.
3. - agents that affect neuraminidase (viral enzyme), suppressing the reproduction of the virus.

Popular drugs

The most the best drugs, used for acute respiratory viral infections and influenza:

1. (280 rubles);
2. (220 rubles);
3. (250 rubles);
4. (100 rubles);
5. (300 rubles);
6. Tiloron ( , ) – 650 rubles;
7. (applicable only for influenza, price 1,250 rubles.).

Let's take a closer look at which of these drugs in 2019 copes most effectively with viruses, but at the same time is inexpensive.

An antiviral agent that has the ability to suppress influenza A and B viruses, SARS - severe acute respiratory syndrome associated coronavirus. Arbidol is also used in the complex therapy of acute rotavirus intestinal infections. Active ingredient: methylphenylthiomethyl-dimethylaminomethyl-hydroxybromindole carboxylic acid ethyl ester.

Among the side effects from taking the drug, allergic reactions in the form of skin rash are known, its main contraindication is early childhood, intolerance to the components.

As a result of the action of the drug, the following is observed:

• antiviral and immunostimulating effect;
• reduction of toxic symptoms and clinical manifestations during the development of the disease;
• reducing the incidence of complications such as the development of bronchitis or pneumonia due to viral infection;
• increasing the period of remission with frequent exacerbations of chronic bacterial infections.

The daily dose of Arbidol for an adult in the treatment of ARVI is 200 mg, for a child from 6 to 12 years old - 100 mg, for a child from 3 to 6 years old - 50 mg. The drug should be taken before meals with plenty of water. Price: Arbidol - on average 130-710 rubles.

It is an immunomodulatory and antiviral agent. Cycloferon is used to treat ARVI, influenza and herpes viruses. Available in solution for injection, tablets, liniment.

It starts a certain cycle of interferon production in the body and maintains it at the proper level, despite rapid excretion by the kidneys. The drug interacts well with antiviral agents, chemotherapy drugs, and other stimulators of interferon production.

For ARVI, the daily dose of Cycloferon is 6 tablets. The course of treatment lasts no more than 10 days. The drug is taken half an hour before meals, 3-4 times a day. Experts recommend taking Cycloferon as a prophylaxis against acute respiratory infections in the autumn-winter period.

The active ingredient is the sodium salt of the copolymer gossypol with carboxymethylcellulose. Pharmacological action: inducer of interferon synthesis, has an antiviral, immunomodulatory effect.

The greatest effect occurs if treatment is started within the first 24 hours of the disease, but no later than the 4th day after the onset of acute infection. For prevention purposes, it can be taken at any time, preferably immediately after contact with a patient with acute respiratory viral infection or influenza.

Kagocel contains the polyphenol Gossypol, which is very active against influenza viruses. When taking a single dose, the maximum concentration of interferon in the blood is observed, which determines its rapid effect.

The effectiveness of therapy is quite high. However, Western clinics have come to the conclusion that treatment with Kagocel can lead to undesirable consequences due to the toxicity of Gossypol. Domestic researchers have not come to a clear conclusion, so the practice of treatment with Kagocel is not uncommon. The drug is inexpensive, the price of Kagocel is on average 180-280 rubles.

Pharmacological action: an antiviral drug, an adamantane derivative, suppresses various strains of the influenza A virus. The mechanism of action of rimantadine is to inhibit the reproduction of the virus by disrupting the formation of its shell.

For medicinal purposes, it is recommended to take according to the following regimen: 1st day – 100 mg (2 tablets) three times a day, 2nd, 3rd days – two tablets twice a day, 4th, 5th day – two tablets once a day. For prevention, one tablet (50 g) is prescribed once a day for 10-14 days.

Rimantadine is available in the form of tablets and syrup; it is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding, intolerance to the components of the drug, liver failure, and is not prescribed for the treatment of children under 1 year of age.

Side effects include: nausea and vomiting, dryness, unpleasant taste in the mouth, decreased appetite, fatigue, headache, dizziness. There may be signs of disruption of the central nervous system. Price: Remantadine - on average 50-150 rubles.

Complex immunostimulating, antiviral drug, has an interferonogenic effect. The medicine contains Thymogen sodium, ascorbic acid, bendazole.

Positioned as an interferon inducer with an effect similar to Kagocel and Tiloron. It is assumed that bendazole enhances the production of endogenous interferon. Available in the form of capsules, syrup and powder for dissolution. Indications: treatment of influenza and ARVI in the early stages.

There are quite a lot of reviews from patients using Cytovir about the effectiveness and absence of side effects. Improvement in well-being is observed on the second or third day; in isolated cases, the drug did not help. Price: Tsitovir 3 - on average 240-580 rubles.

Tiloron (Amiksin, Lavomax)

The active substance Tiloron has antiviral and immunomodulatory effects; it is a synthetic interferon inducer that stimulates the formation of interferons alpha, beta, and gamma.

For influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections, adults are recommended to take 125 mg orally once a day for the first two days of illness, and starting from the 3rd day - 125 mg once every 48 hours. The dose per course of treatment is 750 mg. For the purpose of prevention, 125 mg is prescribed orally once a week for 6 weeks. Price: Amiksin - on average 500-560 rubles.

An antiviral drug, which includes oseltamivir carboxylate (active metabolite), suppresses influenza A and B viruses. It is not effective for acute respiratory viral infections.

The drug is not a preventative measure due to its severe toxicity. Long-term treatment with Tamiflu can lead to mental disorders and impaired renal function. Available in capsule form and in powder form for suspension.

Side effects: nausea, insomnia, diarrhea, dizziness, lethargy, cough, headaches, use with caution in pregnant women and during lactation. Contraindicated for children under 1 year of age.

In addition to such adverse reactions The drug has one more difference: the prohibitively high price of 1000-1400 rubles.

Conclusion

In general, taking antiviral drugs helps reduce the duration of acute respiratory viral infections by several days, reduces the possibility of getting complications from an infection or exacerbation of existing chronic pathologies.

In mild forms of the disease, you can do without taking antiviral drugs: the immune system itself will fight the infection. However, if a cough or runny nose appears suddenly and is severe, plus the temperature has risen, then it makes sense to use it.

Also remember that the maximum effectiveness of these drugs is manifested at the very beginning of the disease; on the 3-5th day of the course of ARVI, taking them does not make much sense.