Update: January 2020

Any disease, especially ARVI and influenza, is easier, cheaper and safer not to treat, but not to allow, to prevent its occurrence. Recently, especially worried about the "point" - safer. Should I take antiviral pills at all? In today's complex world, how to deal with questions:

• Will there be an effect from the use of an expensive antiviral drug?
• What is the best medicine for influenza to take for adults, children?
• Will this remedy do the opposite - harm to health?
• Is there a better cure for the flu?
• Effective antiviral drugs - is it advertising, business, dummies or not?

About antivirals

Antiviral agents for the treatment of ARVI in the pharmaceutical market of Russia are united by the following:

• Almost all antiviral drugs for ARVI and influenza do not have an evidence base for their antiviral efficacy. The studies are very expensive, they are carried out by the manufacturers themselves and the parties interested in a positive conclusion.
• Today, most clinical trials of new drugs are regularly falsified in order to bring "miracle" drugs to the market with a new price tag. Given the fabulous commercial benefits from the sale of expensive antiviral drugs during an epidemic, one cannot believe in the honesty and objectivity of research.
• As you know, pharmacological publications, even in medical journals today, by about 90 percent are custom articles of an advertising nature.
  

Today, there is an abundance of various medicines in pharmacy chains, some of which, in fact, are not “medicines”, since there are a lot of fakes, outright dummies and ineffective remedies. Advocates for patients' rights in Ukraine, for example, claim that the active ingredient was not found in 4 drugs registered as antivirals. However, a wide advertising campaign allows manufacturers to earn millions of hryvnias a year on them.

Antiviral agents for ARVI are conditionally divided into:

• Vaccines- stimulation of the production of antibodies before infection with the virus.
• Immunostimulants- drugs that briefly enhance non-specific (that is, not directed against a specific virus) immunity. They are divided into 2 groups:
  • Interferons are substances obtained from a donor (including animals) or synthesized in a laboratory (recombinant), the task of which is to enhance the antiviral response. Interferons are usually produced in the form of a dry powder, which must be diluted with water and instilled into the nose. Effective only in the initial stages of the disease. And although such substances are always produced in the human body during illness, the additional administration of interferons can cause allergic reactions and even actoimmune pathologies.
  • Contributing to the production of interferons (interferonogens). These are substances that stimulate immune cells to produce interferon molecules. In most countries, such drugs are prohibited due to the unpredictability of their effects on the body. In our country, Kagocel and Amiksin are widely used.
• Direct antiviral drugs:
  • drugs that affect neuraminidase (viral enzyme), suppressing the reproduction of the virus: Oseltamivir (Tamiflu), Zanamivir (Relenza), Triazavirin;
  • hemagglutinin inhibitor only - umifenovir (Arbidol);
  • M2-channel blockers Amantadine, Remantadine - these drugs have proven clinical efficacy, but, like any means, they have a number of side effects.
• Homeopathy. Although the WHO has recognized the use of homeopathy (drugs that treat like with like) as ineffective, there are always supporters of such medicines, who consider them to be a “soft effect” on the body. Homeopathic remedies recommended by some doctors for ARVI include Engystol, Gripp-heel, Agri (Homeopathic Antigrippin) and some others.

Action	Names of medicines
Interferon preparations Blockade of viral mRNA translation, presentation of viral antigens	Recombinant alpha/gamma interferons
Etiotropic agents Neuraminidase inhibitors	Relenza peramivir
Ion channel blockers	Rimantadin (Remantadin, Orvirem)
Inhibition of viral RNA synthesis and replication of genomic fragments	Triazavirin
Antivirals Enable synthesis endogenous interferons	Kagocel Cycloferon Lavomax (Amiksin, Tiloron)
Specific HA chaperone	Arbidol
NP inhibitors

Immunomodulators and antivirals

Immunostimulants produced today show the activation of immune responses at the biochemical level (what is called "in vitro"), but their real benefits and long-term consequences of use are rather complex, little-studied areas. Since relatively recently information about many mechanisms of immunity has become known, and every year scientists receive more and more new information about its functioning. Therefore, there is no confidence in the safety and correctness of the general stimulation of the "understudied" immune system (see). Especially careful should be the prophylactic use of immunostimulants and treatment with antiviral drugs for SARS in children.

“Pharmacy immunostimulants can not only help the body, but also harm,” says Ph.D. Tatyana Tikhomirova, immunologist-allergist. Such a state as hyperactivation of the immune system, as well as immunodeficiency is extremely dangerous, the human body functions normally only when the immune system is in balance. And if a person every time stimulates (“improves himself”) immunity, then in the presence of predisposing factors, this can result in pathological inflammation, the launch of immune aggression on healthy tissues, hyperactivation of the immune system and theoretically (in an extreme situation) to the development of an autoimmune or oncological disease.

If the next of kin has any autoimmune disease (rheumatoid arthritis, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, Sjögren's syndrome, multiple sclerosis, etc.), then under no circumstances should a person use any immunostimulants. Even if a person is healthy, there are already disorders in the immune system, and you can live with them all your life, but if you try to stimulate your immune system rudely and persistently, this can end with the debut of an autoimmune disease.

Fortunately, for most healthy people, without the presence of any predisposing factors, it is quite difficult to “over-stimulate” your immunity in such a way as to seriously harm your health. Since most of the known immunostimulants either do not work at all, or almost do not work. One part of the preparations is an ordinary deceit, the other is ineffective means. But it should be remembered that any drug has side effects.

Alexander Khadzhidis, chief clinical pharmacologist of St. Petersburg, states the following: “Some doctors, for some reason, first prescribe antipyretic drugs to patients, and then immunomodulators, supposedly to produce interferon, which is illogical and generally absurd. That is, first, by bringing down the temperature, they “forbid” the body to fight the virus (against the virus and infection), and then artificially “force” it to do so.

In developed countries, there are no interferonogens (drugs that stimulate the production of interferon) at all. Interferons can work only with parenteral (intravenous) administration, and even then, their effectiveness is questionable. In Russia, these drugs are extremely popular, despite the fact that they are useless.

As for antipyretics for a virus, it is better to bring down the temperature and one-time when the temperature rises, and not 4 r / day - “just in case”. Reception of Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) in acute respiratory viral infections, especially for children under 12 years of age, is contraindicated, it can cause severe damage to the central nervous system and liver - Reye's disease, it is not recommended to use it for those who have suffered from gastrointestinal ulcers.

A well-known doctor in Russia, Alexander Myasnikov, declares that all immunomodulators widely advertised in our country today are a waste of money. In the United States and Western Europe, it has already been unequivocally recognized and proven that these drugs are ineffective, but most Russian doctors continue to believe in the power of immunomodulators in the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections.

Most antiviral drugs for ARVI and influenza have been developed and used for no more than 10-40 years. The drug should have a longer "trial period" in order to make a conclusion about its effectiveness and side effects. As for immunostimulants, these drugs can have delayed consequences (risks of developing autoimmune diseases, blood cancers, etc.) and should be prescribed according to strict indications.

pharmachologic effect: Comprehensive immunostimulatory, an antiviral drug, has an interferonogenic effect. As part of the drug - Thymogen sodium, ascorbic acid, bendazole. Thymogen is a synthetically obtained dipeptide, it enhances the nonspecific resistance of the body. Ascorbic acid normalizes capillary permeability, reducing the activity of the inflammatory process. Bendazole stimulates the production of endogenous interferon in the body.

Side effects: in persons suffering from vegetative-vascular dystonia, it causes a decrease in blood pressure.

Contraindications: during pregnancy, children under 1 year old, thrombophlebitis, severe hypotension, diabetes mellitus, stomach ulcer, urolithiasis.

Produced: since 2001 in capsules, for children since 2006 in syrup, in powder for solution
Research: There are no reliable data on clinical trials confirming its effectiveness and safety. Often doctors and pharmacists recommend this remedy for children, but it should be used with caution or not used at all in the treatment of children.

Reviews: Quite a lot of feedback from patients using Tsitovir, 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 rub.

Amizon

pharmachologic effect: exhibits an immunomodulating effect due to an increase in the titer of antibodies in the blood by 3-4 times, an increase in the production of lysozyme. It is also an interferonogen. The antipyretic properties of the drug are due to its effect on the thermoregulatory center in the diencephalon. And he can relieve pain (headache, aching joints, muscle) with the help of isonicotinic acid on the reticular formation of the brain stem.

Does not have a toxic effect on the kidneys and blood. Although it belongs to the group of non-narcotic analgesics (like Analgin and Paracetamol), it does not have a damaging effect on the gastric mucosa.
Side effects: Usually the drug is well tolerated, but it can also cause a feeling of bitterness in the mouth, slight swelling of the oral mucosa. This does not require discontinuation of the drug, nor additional treatment.
The drug should not be used during pregnancy and lactation.
Price: 20 tabs - 360 r, 30 tabs - 440 r.

Anaferon

pharmachologic effect: The drug is based on antibodies to human interferon, that is, molecules similar to viral ones. The body “thinks” that a virus has entered the bloodstream and activates the immune response. It increases the production of various lymphocytes and increases the functional reserve of those that "go" directly to the focus of inflammation. Also, the drug is an interferonogen, increasing the formation of its own "early" interferons (alpha and beta), as well as gamma interferons.

The drug is available in the form of lozenges - for children and adults, as well as oral drops - for use by children.

Side effects: only allergic reactions.
Price: Anaferon in tablets for children and adults - about 210 r for 20 tabs, Anaferon in drops - 260 r

Poludan

This is an immunomodulating drug that has been on the market for a very long time, consisting of polyadenylic and polyuridylic acids. It is produced in the form of a powder for the preparation of drops in the nose.

Poludan is an interferonogen, causing the formation of all three types (alpha, beta and gamma) of interferons. It can be used both for the prevention and treatment of influenza, SARS, viral conjunctivitis and keratitis.

Poludan is approved for use during pregnancy, in childhood, during lactation.

Cons: high cost of the drug, local (in the nose) allergic reactions.
Price: 600-700 r.

Timalin

The drug is based on an extract obtained from the thymus (the main organ of immunity) of cattle. The drug has been used for several decades; is available as a powder in ampoules, which must be dissolved with a sterile solution and injected intramuscularly.

An overdose of the drug can end very badly: a person may develop a decrease in the thymus in size and a significant decrease in its function (this leads to severe suppression of immunity). Timalin is contraindicated in pregnancy, lactation.

Price: 430-450 r for 10 ampoules.

Kagocel

Pharmachologic effect: inducer of interferon synthesis, has antiviral, immunomodulatory effect. Composition: sodium salt of the copolymer, which causes the formation of late interferon with high antiviral activity. 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 an acute infection. For the purpose of prevention, it is possible to take it at any time, it is better immediately after contact with a sick ARVI or flu.

Side effects: occurrence of allergic reactions.
Produced: Registered in 2003, since 2005 it has been produced in tablets, since 2011 it has been approved for use in children over 3 years of age for the treatment of influenza, as a prophylaxis against acute respiratory infections, it is possible to use children over 6 years of age.

Efficacy and safety studies: There is conflicting information here. The active substance is the sodium salt of the gossypol copolymer with carboxymethylcellulose. Moreover, Gossypol itself, a natural polyphenol, has been banned in the world since 1998 due to its toxicity. Gossypol has been actively studied by some countries as a contraceptive for a very long time, with its prolonged use, spermatogenesis completely stops. Chinese and Brazilian scientists say boys and men who take gossypol may experience infertility in the future. However, Kagocel is not gossypol in its pure form, it is the sodium salt of the copolymer, which has other properties that differ from those of the chemical itself.

The manufacturer actively advertises the drug and claims that the salt in Kagocel is negligible, 4 times lower than the concentration allowed by international standards. Multiple stages of product purification ensure the absence of free Gossypol in the final drug, which is checked during the quality control of each series of Kagocel tablets. The method used to test for the presence of free gossypol is very accurate and can detect levels above 0.0036%. At the beginning of 2013, data on tests conducted on rats were published - no changes in reproductive function in animals could be found.

So no research has been done on primates? It is known that gossypol for different animal species has its own toxicity limits, according to the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) for rats, the maximum toxic dose is 2200-3300 mg/kg., for pigs 550, for guinea pigs up to 300 mg/kg. The studies carried out by the manufacturer included the administration of therapeutic doses to male rats, and doses up to 25 times the therapeutic dose ( 250 mg/kg). Can the rest of the claims and "research" be trusted?

Kagocel is not used in Western Europe or the USA, and is not on the WHO drug lists. The effectiveness of the drug has not been proven according to representatives of the Formulary Committee of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences and OSDM. No statistical studies have been conducted on the development of side effects as of autumn 2013.

Reviews: It helps a lot, some children and adults have allergic reactions in the form of a rash, swelling, itching.
Price: Kagocel - average 180-280 rub. In 2012, the sales volume amounted to 2.64 billion rubles

Tiloron (Amiksin, Lavomax)

Pharmachologic effect: active substance Tiloron, has antiviral and immunomodulatory action, it is a synthetic inducer of interferon, stimulating the formation of interferons alpha, beta, gamma.

Side effects: short-term chills, allergic reactions, contraindicated in breastfeeding and pregnancy.

Produced: almost 40 years ago, children under 7 years old are strictly forbidden to use.

Research: The benefits of the drug are undoubted both for the treatment and prevention of viral diseases, but this may be offset by potential harm to the body. In the 80s in the USA, after tests on mice, the drug was banned, as it had a highly toxic effect, in experimental animals, retinal dissection, liver lipidosis and other side effects were observed. It does not apply in the US and the European Union. In our country, the antiviral Amixin continues to be produced and doctors prescribe it to patients.
In a small study, 14 patients who were prescribed tilorone at a dose of 152 and 189 g participated, in 2 the drug caused keratopathy and retinopathy (while visual acuity did not decrease), these effects were reversible. The authors of the study concluded that the drug has a potential health hazard.
Reviews: The occurrence of allergic reactions, the high cost of the drug.
Price: Amiksin - average 500-560 rub. Sales volume in 2012 amounted to 1.17 billion rubles.

Additionally! Medicines, the so-called immunomodulators - Licopid, Polyoxidonium, Cycloferon, Proteflazid, Timogen, Panavir, Isoprinosine, Neovir, Groprinosin, etc. - should not be used to treat children (for various diseases) without an immunogram and serious indications, since they do not have proper clinical trials of efficacy and safety in the treatment of children.

Yodantipyrine

The main active ingredient of the drug is iodophenazone, a substance that was previously used as an isotope label for scintigraphy.

Iodophenazone is an interferonogen, stabilizes cell membranes, stimulates both links of immunity.

Due to the presence of iodine, the drug is contraindicated in patients with increased thyroid function, children under 14 years of age, pregnant and lactating women. It is highly allergenic and can also cause stomach and intestinal upsets. It cannot be used for a long time.

Price: 20 tablets - 210 r, 50 tablets - 420 r.

Imupret

The drug is available in 2 forms:

1. dragees, which will need to be washed down with water;
2. drops that dissolve in water and are then taken orally.

The main substances that have an immunomodulatory and antiviral effect are a combination of marshmallow root extract, horsetail, dandelion, yarrow, chamomile, oak bark and walnut leaves. That is, the drug is completely herbal.

The manufacturer, Bionorica, reports that the combination of extracts of these herbs will relieve inflammation, disinfect mucous membranes, relieve headache and local pain, and lower body temperature.

The disadvantages of the remedy are its price and the lack of a clear evidence base for effectiveness. It rarely causes allergic reactions.

Price: about 480 rubles.

Polyoxidonium

The active substance is a bromide azoximer molecule. The drug is produced in the form of various dosage forms: tablets, suppositories, lyophilisate for intravenous or intramuscular administration (the lyophilisate can also be dissolved and instilled into the nose or under the tongue).

The domestic manufacturer, NPO Petrovax Pharm, declares the unique features of the drug: when it enters the body, azoximer bromide gently and naturally corrects those parts of the immune system in which pathological changes have occurred. At the same time, the immune system itself is not activated and is not “spurred on”. In a few studies of the drug, it has been shown that Polyoxidonium reduces the period of intoxication in viral diseases, reduces the risk of bacterial complications of acute respiratory viral infections, and is also used in the complex treatment of such bacterial consequences.

The remedy is allowed from 3 years (in the form of tablets and drops in the nose). It is not recommended for use during breastfeeding and pregnancy. It is included in the list of essential medicines and received an award as the best immunodulator for frequently ill children.

Cons: Studies of the effectiveness of the drug are few, reviews are contradictory. Some note the occurrence of allergic reactions, and not just seals at the injection site. A number of people associate the subsequent, after a time after taking Polyoxidonium, a deterioration in the immune status, which consisted in the development of a new, serious illness.

Price: Lyophilisate 3 mg - 780 r / 5 bottles, lyophilisate 6 mg - 1200 r / 5 bottles, candles 12 mg 10 pcs - 1050 r, tablets - 780 r.

Antivirals

Below are just some antiviral medicines for SARS, reviews about them, a brief description, comments on well-known studies of their effectiveness, the average price in pharmacies.

Triazavirin

The active substance of the drug Triazavirin is a synthetic analogue of the bases of purine nucleosides (guanine) with an antiviral effect. It has a wide spectrum of antiviral activity against RNA-containing viruses. The main mechanism of action of the drug Triazavirin is the inhibition of the synthesis of viral RNA and the replication of genomic fragments.

« Triazavirin was developed against a group of RNA viruses. These include the influenza virus, and the West Nile virus, and the Zika virus was, and the coronavirus is right there. And "Triazavirin" against the Chinese coronavirus is effective due to the fact that it is one of the subspecies of this group. There will be new RNA viruses, and it will be effective.
Side effects: allergic reactions, dyspeptic disorders (diarrhea, vomiting, flatulence).
Contraindications: hypersensitivity, pregnancy, lactation, children under 18, renal / liver failure.
Price: 1250 rubles 20 tab.

Pharmacological action: the active ingredient is imidazolylethanamide pentanedioic acid. It is active against adenovirus infection, influenza A, B, respiratory syncytial infection, parainfluenza. It is an immunomodulator that affects the functional activity of the interferon system.

Side effects: allergic reactions

Contraindicated: children under 18 years of age.

Produced: as a drug for the treatment of influenza and SARS since 2008, before that, according to prof. Vlasov Vasily, the drug Vitaglutam (imidazolylethanamide of pentanedioic acid) was used in Russia until 2008 as a hematopoietic stimulant in cancer patients receiving anticancer therapy.

Research: According to the manufacturers, the idea of ​​​​producing Ingavirin originated in the 1980s, but only after years of research on its safety and effectiveness, the drug was filed for registration by 2008. When Vitaglutam was used in patients with cancer, there was no conclusive evidence of its effectiveness. And when Ingavirin appeared on the pharmaceutical market in 2008 without full-fledged research, a “swine flu epidemic” began in the country, so Ingavirin was actively sold. The drug was recommended by the Ministry of Health and Social Development, even despite the lack of placebo-controlled studies, substantiated evidence of its effectiveness.

One study done per 105!!! patients with confirmed influenza showed the following results:

• Taking ingavirin reduced the duration of fever to 34.5 hours (provided it was used in the first 1-1.5 days from the onset of the disease)
• In the placebo group it is 72 hours
• In the group taking Arbidol - 48 hours

After analyzing the duration and intensity of flu symptoms - weakness, headache, dizziness in the study groups when taking Ingavirin, a decrease in the severity of the disease was confirmed, no side effects were detected.

In May 2009, Alexander Chuchalin, chief therapist of the Russian Federation, ( he led the drug development team) gave an interview to Ogonyok magazine: “The new antiviral agent Ingavirin has a much higher efficiency than the American one. The Russian drug quickly and easily integrates into the A/H1N1 virus genome, immediately destroying it. It is also effective against other dangerous viruses.”

Reviews: Most of the drug does not help, isolated cases confirm a reduction in the duration of the disease.

Price : 380-460 rub. From January to June 2010, Ingavirin's sales amounted to 220 million rubles, 467 thousand packages were sold .

Neovir

The active substance is sodium oxodihydroacridinyl acetate. Available as a solution for injection.

The drug acts on the cells of the immune system, causing them to produce special protective molecules upon contact with the microbe. The agent is an interferonogen, and also acts on the DNA or RNA of viruses, destroying them. Activates cell division in the bone marrow, calling for more lymphocytes to immune protection.

Cons: the drug should not be used by pregnant, lactating, people with kidney pathologies, as well as those who suffer from autoimmune diseases. May cause allergies.

Price: 3 ampoules - 670 r, 5 ampoules - 870 r.

Triazavirin

The drug is based on the antiviral agentotriazinide. The drug is of domestic origin, is available in the form of capsules.

The active substance has a feature: it is integrated into the genome (DNA or RNA) of the virus instead of one of the amino acids, as a result, the virus loses its ability to reproduce.

Triazavirin is contraindicated in children under 18 years of age, people with kidney and liver pathologies, pregnant and lactating women. This is due to the fact that the drug is not yet sufficiently studied.

Price: 20 capsules - 1100 r

Panavir

In this preparation, the immunomodulatory activity is determined by the extract of potato shoots. It is produced in various forms: as a spray for the oral cavity, rectal and vaginal suppositories, a gel for topical use, a solution for intravenous administration.

Manufacturers say that the combination of various carbohydrates and uronic acids found in potatoes, when released into the bloodstream, has an interferonogenic effect. The bactericidal effect of this drug is also noted.

If various suppositories are used to treat viral gynecological and urological diseases, then a throat spray and injection solution can be used to prevent and treat SARS and influenza. They are also prescribed for the treatment of herpes infection, tick-borne encephalitis, rheumatoid arthritis.

Cons: The antiviral effects of Panavir are recognized only in Russia, in other countries this drug is not prescribed. This is due to the fact that there is no data on the actual components of the drug: after all, with the availability of potato shoots, the remedy should not be so expensive.

Price: oral spray 300 r, rectal suppositories - 1600 r, vaginal suppositories - 1500 r, solution for intravenous administration - 3600 r

Oksolin

This is a local antiviral agent that has long been used not only for the prevention of SARS, but with its help it is possible to treat herpes infections.

The effectiveness of the drug is still controversial. Many doctors believe that it can be compared with the effectiveness of any greasy cream, which, if treated with a nose, will also contribute to the deposition of microbial particles on it.

Price: 20-40r.

Arbidol

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

Side effects: use for children under 3 years is prohibited, individual allergic reactions are possible.
Produced: invented in 1974, in 1992 its industrial production was started.

Research: Until 2013, there was no convincing evidence of its effectiveness and safety. The studies carried out in the USSR were never published. In Russia in 2008, a study of 300 people showed that Viferon was more effective than Arbidol. In 2004, in China, tests on 230 patients with symptoms of Orvi showed that it was not effective, unlike Tamiflu and Ingaverin. In 2009, in the UK journal Antiviral Research, the authors of the studies stated that strains resistant to Arbidol form less frequently than those of Remantadine and Amantadine.

The FDA denied registration of Arbidol in the US, and the WHO has never considered this drug as an effective antiviral drug.

Latest drug information: At the end of 2013, the World Health Organization registered Arbidol (umifenovir) as a direct-acting antiviral drug, assigning it an individual code J05AX13. Thus, Pharmstandard received nominal permission for the widespread use of the drug in the Russian Federation, where Arbidol is included in the standards for the treatment and prevention of influenza and SARS in children and adults.

However, the multicenter trial of the effectiveness of Arbidol, which was planned to be completed in 2013, has not been completed to this day, and its dates have been postponed to 2015. The results of this trial, which has serious sponsors and does not suffer from a lack of patients, could dot the I in the arbidol epic, but for unknown reasons this does not happen. I.e there is still no evidence of effectiveness, it remains to wait ...

Reviews: The same number of positive reviews and opinions about the inefficiency of its use. There are isolated cases of allergic reactions in the form of dermatitis, pain in the epigastric region.
Price: Arbidol - average 130-710 rub. In 2012, the sales volume was over 5 billion rubles.

An analogue of Arbidol appeared on the pharmaceutical market of Belarus, the manufacturer of JLLC "Lekpharm". This is a generic drug, in Belarusian import-substituting packaging - Arpetol. The instructions for it indicate that the active substance is: arbidol hydrochloride? Once again, the commercialization of today's pharmaceutical market and the lack of proper control are proved!

Pharmachologic effect: an antiviral drug, which includes oseltamivir carboxylate (active metabolite), suppresses influenza A and B viruses. It is not effective in ARVI.

Side effects: Nausea, insomnia, diarrhea, dizziness, lethargy, cough, headaches, take with caution to pregnant women and lactation. Contraindicated in children under 1 year old.

Available: since 1996, the pharmaceutical company "F. Hoffmann-La Roche has registered the right to develop drugs containing oseltamivir.

Research: Tamiflu has the disadvantage of making it difficult to diagnose because the side effects are similar to flu-like symptoms. This during the epidemic with long-term use becomes dangerous. Only short-term use is optimally effective - a few days at the very beginning of the flu. Independent researchers requested from the Swiss manufacturer a standard report of 4-5 study modules. To which the pharmaceutical company provided only the first modules, repeated requests for full details were never satisfied.

Since 2004, cases of neuropsychiatric disorders have been reported, more often in children and adolescents who took Tamiflu during the flu - hallucinations, nightmares, confusion, convulsions, anxiety, etc.

Japanese post-marketing studies of this drug in 2006 announced the risk of developing disorders of consciousness in humans - psychosis, depression, suicidal tendencies, especially in children. And also 54 deaths were recorded after the use of Tamiflu, 16 of which were in adolescents 10-19 years old (15 committed suicide, 1 died after being hit by a car), the rest died from kidney failure (it is possible that due to severe influenza).

Latest information about this drug: Back in April 2014, the Cochrane Society (an independent health research network) represented by the Tom Jefferson group and the British Medical Journal published data from a Cochrane review of studies that did not confirm the effectiveness of Tamiflu and Relenza in the treatment and prevention of influenza. The effectiveness of reducing influenza complications by taking these drugs has also been questioned. Timid attempts by the manufacturer Roche to fight back with a firm promise to provide irrefutable evidence in the form of randomized trial results have so far been unsuccessful. Evidence is pending.

On April 10, 2014, the Cochrane Collaboration published the results of these 26 Relenza and 20 Tamiflu trials, which involved 24,000 people.

As a result of the research, it was found that:

• Oseltamivir, as a prophylactic, slightly reduces the risk of developing influenza in families without reducing the ability of the influenza virus to spread from person to person.
• The duration of symptoms is reduced by 16 hours (from 7 to 6.3 days), in children this effect is completely absent.
• The drug has no effect on the risk of severe complications (sinusitis, otitis media, pneumonia, bronchitis), that is, it does not reduce the likelihood of complications.
• The drug is recognized as quite toxic, increasing the risk of nausea, vomiting in both children and adults.
• When used for prophylactic purposes, the drug turned out to be hazardous to health, since it leads to mental disorders, impaired kidney function, in some cases it has been found that it helps to reduce the production of one's own antibodies to the virus.

Based on these studies, health officials in the leading countries of the world should decide to stop mass purchases of antiviral drugs with the active ingredient Oseltamivir due to the high risk of side effects and low efficiency as a drug for the treatment and prevention of the influenza virus during the epidemic.

Reference: only on the basis of the claims of the manufacturer Tamiflu that the drug significantly reduces the risk of serious complications and hospitalization of patients during the epidemic, countries such as the UK and the USA in 2009 purchased these drugs for 40 million doses due to the swine flu epidemic ( US $1.3bn, UK £424m).

Based on the latest data on the low effectiveness and safety of this antiviral agent, an international group of experts in evidence-based medicine called on the governments of the world's leading countries to stop the bulk purchases of Tamiflu and Relenza.

Reviews: Enough reviews of side effects in the form of vomiting, dizziness, psychosis, headache. Efficiency in influenza, many confirm. Doctors of infectious diseases hospitals who themselves took oseltamivir at the first symptoms of influenza during the swine flu epidemic in 2009 testify that despite the fact that 50% of the employees took the drug accompanied by nausea, pneumonia (probably influenza-like, but could also be bacterial) developed only in 1% of physicians working in the focus of the epidemic.

Price: Tamiflu - average 1200-1300 rub.

Remantadine (Rimantadine)

Pharmachologic effect: an antiviral drug, a derivative of adamantane, suppresses various strains of the influenza A virus (including swine flu).

Side effects: contraindicated in pregnant women, children under 1 year. Reduces concentration, causes dizziness, nervousness, headache, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth.

Produced: information about the first use of the drug has been known since 1968.

Studies: Tests were carried out from 1981 to 2006, in general they showed less toxicity of Remantadine in comparison with Amantadine. One study showed that Amantadine was 61% effective in preventing influenza infection compared to a placebo group, and if a person fell ill, it reduced the febrile syndrome for 1 day. In the same study, it was compared with Tamiflu, it produced an effectiveness of 73% of the placebo group. Rimantadine (Remantadine) is currently considered a drug with proven clinical efficacy, but some strains of the influenza virus may be resistant to it.

Reviews: There are reviews that Remantadine causes side effects - dizziness, tachycardia, mostly positive reviews.
Price: Remantadin - average 50-150 rub.

It is with influenza (including swine) at the first symptoms that therapists and pediatricians recommend: for adults - Remantadine, Tamiflu. Children older than 1 year are shown Orvirem (rimantadine syrup), Viferon. Children over 8 years old can - Remantadin (in the table), Tamiflu.

Interferon preparations

Interferons are messenger proteins released by cells infected with viruses. They seem to inform other cells about the infection and the required inactivation of the virus. Alpha interferons are produced by lymphocytes, beta - by fibroblasts. In addition to Viferon, the alpha group includes Intron, Reaferon, Kipferon.

Viferon

The creation of the drug was scientifically substantiated in the period 1990-1995. a group of scientists from the Research Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology named after N.F. Gamalei under the guidance of prof. Malinovskaya V.V.
Since December 1996, on the basis of the same research institute, serial production of recombinant interferon alfa-2b in suppositories has begun. Viferon are candles with different content of the active substance.

Application :

• Viferon-1 (150,000 IU) is designed for babies from birth to 7 years. It is used for acute respiratory viral infections, herpetic infections, as an additional remedy for prolonged pneumonia or sepsis, including in preterm infants with intrauterine infections. The drug is prescribed for 5 days. Children under 7 years old are recommended 1 candle 2 times a day. Premature, born at a period of more than 34 weeks - as children under 7 years old. With a shorter gestation period - 1 suppository three times a day. If necessary, after a five-day break, the course can be repeated for another 5 days.
• In children older than seven years, adults, the drug in suppositories of 500,000 IU is used twice a day for five days. It is possible to use viferon in pregnant women.
• Candles containing viferon 1000000 and 3000000 IU are used in the treatment of viral hepatitis and herpetic infections. The use of the same injectable forms is indicated for any (except for HIV-associated) viral meningitis: children from 7 years of age are injected intravenously or intramuscularly with 1 million IU, adults - 3 or even 5 million IU daily.
• Also, doctors of infectious diseases hospitals use injectable Viferon at a dose of 2 million IU intramuscularly at the first symptoms of influenza during the epidemic (as an emergency measure in the absence of Remantadine and Tamiflu / Relenza). This increases the chance of avoiding flu complications.
• The drug in the form of an ointment is intended for the treatment of herpes on the skin and mucous membranes in adults and children over one year old.

Side effects: the main side effect of viferon suppositories can be an allergic reaction, which happens infrequently. When using injection forms, after 3-4 hours (with intramuscular injection) or within the first two hours (with intravenous administration), a sharp rise in temperature is noted. This indicates the stimulation of antiviral immunity. In this case, if the temperature rises above 38.5-39 degrees, it is recommended to take an antipyretic.

Research: With regard to the effectiveness of the drug, it is not included in list A of evidence-based pharmacology. That is, there have not been large randomized trials in humans that meet international standards. However, there is a positive practical experience of treatment with Viferon in pediatric practice. (By the way, nitroglycerin also lacks randomized trials to prove its effectiveness, which does not make it an ineffective first-line drug for angina relief.) Publications of data from clinical trials of the drug are available only in Russian and were carried out only in domestic clinics. The price-quality ratio allows pediatricians to recommend the drug for the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections in children under seven years of age. For adults in the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections, the drug has limited use due to the rectal form of administration and the availability of alternative drugs.

The main arguments of the opponents of the drug:

• high molecular weight protein molecules that cannot be absorbed in the gut
• lack of clinical trials that meet international standards.

Kipferon

Candles are somewhat expensive for the treatment of banal colds. Therefore, it is replaced by viferon. But, in severe forms of intestinal dysbacteriosis in children of the first two years of life, the drug shows good clinical results.

Studies: No randomized trials have been conducted, i.e. the drug belongs to the list of drugs with unproven effect. Main claims:

• high molecular weight that interferes with normal absorption
• adding components of donor blood to the preparation, which can cause fever and allergies.

Cycloferon

Cycloferon was originally registered as a veterinary drug in 1993 for the treatment of animals with viral infections, in 1995 it was already honey. a drug.

The drug Cycloferon is approved for use in adults and children over four years of age. Available in solution for injection, tablets, liniment. Refers to immunomodulatory drugs, is an inducer of interferon, enhancing its production and showing antiviral, anti-inflammatory and immunostimulating properties.

Application: on the territory of the Russian Federation it is used in the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections, influenza, viral hepatitis, herpes infection, human papillomaviruses and other urological and gynecological pathologies (for example, candidiasis, chlamydia).
Contraindications: The drug is not recommended for pregnant and lactating women. May cause allergic reactions.
Research: Cycloferon is an immunostimulant that stimulates the action of the immune system and the production of interferons. To date, all clinical trials of this drug, published in the medical literature, were carried out only on the territory of the Russian Federation and do not meet international standards.

There are no serious clinical trials for cycloferon that would prove its effectiveness or disprove the absence of long-term harmful effects of this drug (development of autoimmune diseases). It is not superfluous to recall that all drugs that have been on the pharmaceutical market for less than five years are still at the fifth level of pharmacological tests and it is quite likely that previously unknown adverse effects from drugs of this series will be detected. In the presence of newly identified harmful effects, the drug will be withdrawn from pharmacy chains and discontinued, and most of those who were treated with this drug and earned some kind of health failure are unlikely to receive at least some compensation.

homeopathic remedies

AGRI

The drug is available in the form of a children's and adult "version". As part of the substance (regardless of the form - child or adult):

• in one type of tablets from one package - a combination of American lacquer, bryony and sulfuric liver,
• in another type of tablets - a complex of aconite, arsenic iodide and toxicodendron.

Tablets are taken under the tongue, alternating different types of tablets - according to the instructions.

Description: AGRI is a product based on natural ingredients that has:

• anti-inflammatory;
• decongestant;
• antihistamine;
• antipyretic action.

Contraindications include only individual intolerance to the individual components of the drug. The manufacturer allows it to be used by both children and pregnant women.
Side effects: salivation, swelling of the conjunctiva or respiratory tract (this indicates an allergy to the drug, in which it must be discontinued).
Cons: unproven effectiveness, inconvenience of taking the drug.
Price: 120 r.

Engystol

Available in 2 forms:

1. Ampoules with the composition of Vincetoxicum hirundinaria D 6, D10, D30, Sulfur D4 and
2. Tablets for resorption under the tongue with a similar composition, but larger dosages of each drug.

Description : the drug has a complex anti-inflammatory, antiviral and detoxifying effect. Side effects are not described, there are no contraindications.
Cons: unproven effectiveness. On the first day of the disease, you will have to take 1 tablet every 15 minutes for 2 hours, then switch to a triple dose.

Price: 400 r for 50 tablets (11 tablets are consumed on the first day, then 3 pcs).

Aflubin

The drug is available in the form of 2 forms: tablets and drops for oral administration. Their composition is about the same. These are bryony, gentian, aconite, sacromactic acid.

Also similarly named nasal spray. It has a different composition, and is indicated for the treatment of the common cold (including allergic), pharyngitis, eustachitis, sinusitis. There is also Aflubin broncho syrup based on thyme and honey extract. It is indicated for coughing and is not an antiviral or immunomodulatory agent.

Description: It is stated that this drug is an interferonogen, and also stimulates the cellular link of immunity, stops inflammation in the mucous membranes and synovial membranes, and has a detoxifying and antipyretic effect.

Cons: The effectiveness of the drug has not been proven, while it is one of the few homeopathic remedies used in Europe.

May cause increased swelling of the nose and throat, burning sensation in the throat, increased salivation.

Price: Tablets No. 24 - 410 r, drops - 215 r, nasal spray - 360 r.

Influcid

The drug is available in the form of tablets and oral solution. It contains aconite, ipecac, bryonia, phosphorus, steap, gelsemia, evpatorium perfoliatum.

Description : as part of the drug - 6 tested homeopathic monopreparations that have proven their effectiveness (this is not recognized by the medical community) for the treatment of acute infections localized in the nasopharynx and bronchi. One of them dilutes sputum, the other relieves swelling from the nasal mucosa, the third eliminates headaches, the fourth strengthens the immune system. Evpatorium perfoliatum is a good anti-influenza homeopathic remedy

Cons : May (rarely) cause allergic reactions. Has a high cost.

Price: 60 tablets - 500 r

SARS and influenza

SARS is a group of viral diseases that are transmitted by airborne droplets and cause inflammation in the mucous membranes of the nose, pharynx, larynx and trachea. Many of them also affect the superficial structures of the eye (conjunctiva, upper sclera) and lymph nodes. Some can cause inflammation of the lower respiratory tract - the bronchi and lung tissue. A feature of respiratory viruses is a decrease in local immunity of the mucous membranes, as well as the expenditure of systemic immune defense resources, as a result, they "open the way" to bacterial complications.

There are more than 300 types of SARS viruses. One of them is the influenza virus - the most insidious and life-threatening.

The "intrigue" of the influenza virus is as follows:

• It has an extremely small size, which allows it to easily enter the body.
• It has 2 antigens on its shell - a factor of aggression. One of them - hemagglutinin - can damage red blood cells. Therefore, with influenza, nosebleeds and hemoptysis easily occur, hemorrhages also occur in internal organs: lung tissue, heart, kidneys, and brain. In addition, hemagglutinin is "responsible" for the intensity of intoxication, that is, poor health (body aches, nausea, drowsiness, loss of appetite).

The second factor of aggression - neuraminidase - strongly suppresses the immune system. Then it becomes easy for bacteria flying in the air and entering the human body to increase inflammation of the respiratory tract and cause other complications.

• Easily changes from season to season (this applies mainly to the influenza A virus, while viruses B and C are more stable). It is impossible to predict 100% which virus will "dominate" this year. This variability of the virus is due to the variability of hemagglutinin (it is marked with the letter “H”) and neuraminidase (“N”: there are 12 types of the first enzyme and 9 types of the second in total. This means that a large number of combinations can be made from them. And if a person has immunity (due to a vaccine or the fact that he once got sick) to a virus with one combination of these antigens, this does not make him resistant to a virus with a different set.

It is believed that the number of combinations for a person is not so large: it consists of 3 types of hemagglutinin and 2 types of neuraminidase (although in 2015 there was an influenza epidemic caused by the H5N1 virus). It is also bad that with the same combination, the virus can have different antigenic properties, and the same person can get sick with the H1N1 flu (California), and then become infected with the H1N1 flu virus (Shanghai). In addition, exchanges of individual antigens between individual strains of the A virus obtained from humans and strains obtained from animals or birds are possible. The result of this exchange is the emergence of a new, more aggressive virus.

The ability of a virus to mutate and change is the most dangerous. It makes the flu an uncontrollable and unmanageable infection. Only in "quiet" years this disease covers 30 million of the world's population. Pandemics occur when a completely new virus appears - both in terms of hemagglutinin and neuraminidase.

If the flu does not cause complications, it proceeds quite favorably (mortality - 0.01-0.2%), although it takes at least 1 year of life from a person. The mortality rate increases in:

• children under 3 years old;
• old people;
• those who have recently had a serious illness;
• people after a course of chemotherapy;
• suffering from cardiovascular or pulmonary diseases.

Findings:

The ineffectiveness of antiviral agents due to the resistance of virus strains

The lack of a positive effect when using some antiviral drugs for influenza is also possible due to the fact that drug-resistant viruses appear and a particular influenza strain may already be resistant to a particular drug (for example, Remantadine).

Other treatments and placebo effect

Strong immunity

In a healthy body, after 2-3 days, the immune system produces enough protective antibodies against the virus, it does not need additional drugs. It is enough to follow the well-known rules - bed rest, plentiful hot drinks, fortified foods and drinks, clean air in the patient's room, etc.

Speedy recovery with antiviral drugs

In various life situations, reducing the duration of the disease even by one day can be very important, for example, a wedding day, an urgent business trip, an important business deal, an exam, an interview, etc. It is in such cases that the use of antiviral agents that reduce by 2-3 days the duration of the disease may have a meaning.

No adequate research

The lack of benign studies on the effectiveness and side effects (on a large group of people, different ages, over a long period of time) of most antiviral agents for ARVI and influenza suggests the caution of their use or even their abandonment.

Don't waste your money on rubbish

Spending money, in some cases a lot, on drugs with unproven efficacy, side effects, and questionable safety is probably not advisable. Any medicine, even useless or dummy, can harm the body.

Video broadcast: How the placebo effect works

• from 9:24 min. - about what drugs are most often prescribed by doctors
• from 24:00 — about the effect of placebo on the functioning of the immune system
• from 31:07 — about the high placebo effect in children
• from 33:55 — about pacifier drugs prescribed for acute respiratory viral infections
• from 34:40 — about homeopathy and antiviral drugs for ARVI
• from 42:27 — about how modern research is being carried out

Video: How not to get sick with the flu.

Antiviral drugs are inexpensive but effective, for adults and children, list and prices

Everyone knows that viral diseases are very dangerous, they cause a general weakening of the immune system and contribute to the development of other ailments.

Such diseases are very common, especially in winter, when the diet of most people becomes poor in various vitamins and minerals. All this contributes to the fact that viral diseases spread rapidly and turn into entire epidemics.

Treatment of viral diseases is a very important medical task, so we can buy many different drugs in pharmacies. Each person must understand what the disease is, and prevent it. That's what antivirals are for.

The range of prices and quality of such medicines varies greatly.

The buyer faces a difficult task, to buy inexpensive but at the same time effective means. Our list will help you make the right choice of medicines.

Principle of operation and classification

Antiviral drugs and immunostimulants work at the biochemical level and activate the body's immune responses. All the mechanics of the immune system is still unknown, scientists still have to do a lot of work in this direction.

Despite this, there are already hundreds of different drugs that increase immunity. Naturally, a lot of them are fakes and do not benefit the body, and sometimes even harm.

The choice of the drug must be approached with great responsibility, because it will depend on how quickly you cope with the disease. Modern drugs should perform the following functions:

• shorten the period of the disease, as well as make the symptoms less noticeable;
• eliminate the threat of negative consequences after illness;
• reduce the chances of recurrence of chronic diseases;
• perform preventive functions.

All means to combat viruses can be divided into 3 categories:

• Vaccines are special substances that are most often in the form of vaccinations and are used to prevent serious viral diseases. Each vaccine is effective against one specific disease.
• Antiviral drugs. These drugs have both a directed effect on a specific disease or virus, and can have an extensive effect on the body. They work by stimulating the production of various enzymes.
• Immunostimulators and immunomodulators. Such drugs strengthen the human immune system through the production of interferon. They are not expensive, but effective for adults in the winter, when the immune system is weakened.

Available antivirus products list and prices

The list of drugs designed to cope with viruses is very large, but not all of them are worthy of attention. Next, we will consider the best drugs that will not hit the budget and will help very effectively.

Remantadine

This is a well-known drug that has proven itself among buyers. Remantadine is able to effectively fight many viral diseases and even the recently identified swine flu. For children, this remedy can be prescribed from the age of 1 year.

Like any medical drug, rimantadine has its own side effects and contraindications. This drug may cause:

• dizziness;
• apathy
• nausea;

It is most effective to take this drug at the initial stage of the disease, as it is a general antiviral agent. It may not be able to cope with some mutating viruses. In this case, it is advisable to choose another remedy as prescribed by the doctor.

It is forbidden to give rimantadine to people with complex kidney and liver diseases. Also one of the most serious contraindications is the possibility of manifestations of epilepsy. Tablets with a volume of 50 mg will cost the buyer about 150 rubles, and capsules with a dosage of 100 ml at 200-300 rubles.

Amiksin

This drug has a powerful antiviral effect. It has good immunomodulatory properties, and is also practically non-toxic. When used correctly, as prescribed by the doctor, it does not provoke side effects. An overdose threatens the patient with manifestations of allergies, chills, as well as lesions of the digestive tract.

The main indications for which Amiksin is prescribed are influenza, cytomegalovirus infections, and other viral diseases. In addition, the agent can be effective in hepatic viral etiology and herpetic infection. Children under the age of 7 years, the drug is not prescribed.

In some cases, Amiksin may be one of the components in therapy. It is also used for urogenital infections. For a package of 125 mg of this drug, you will have to pay about 600 rubles.

Ingavirin

The active substance of this drug is imidazolylethanamide pentanedioic acid. The drug is effective against:

• influenza A and B infections;
• parainfluenza;
• respiratory syncytial infections.

It is a good immunomodulator due to its powerful strong influence on the production of interferon.

Among the side effects, it should be noted that with incorrect dosages, as well as in some individual cases, allergic reactions are possible. The drug is not prescribed to children under 18 years of age. Like most medicines, Ingavirin is most effective in the early days of the disease.

In the study of the drug, it was found that all the symptoms of the disease were significantly reduced, as well as the duration of the fever. No serious side effects were found. The price of this drug is 380-460 rubles.

Arbidol

This drug is used in the fight against, groups A and B. It is also able to suppress atypical and fight infections of the digestive tract.

Arbidol is forbidden to be taken by children under 3 years of age, as there is a possibility of allergic reactions. Despite this, this tool is considered low-toxic.

Doctors call viruses microscopic organisms that can invade human cells and cause their death. Special antiviral drugs help protect against many diseases caused by these pathogens. Today, the pharmaceutical market offers consumers a lot of drugs of different price categories, so choosing an effective remedy is not easy.

Contrary to popular belief, antiviral medications can be inexpensive, effective, and can help relieve symptoms quickly (see below for a list of medications).

Varieties of antiviral drugs

Doctors divide medicines into several groups according to the principle of action. So, vaccines are used for prevention purposes, they produce antibodies in the blood and prevent the possible infection of a person with a viral infection. Drugs that act on the virus suppress the development of the pathogen and speed up the healing process.

But immunostimulants for a while, thereby provoking the production of interferon by the body.

Arriving at the pharmacy, you can see that the best antiviral drugs differ in their intended purpose. Medicines are most often used against the following ailments:

• flu;
• SARS.

And also the latest generation drugs are produced that act on most types of viruses and specialized medicines - antiretroviral. You can choose the best medicine, knowing the symptoms of the disease and its name, this information will help you buy an effective and inexpensive remedy.

Correctly selected medicines will help you eliminate unpleasant symptoms and return to your favorite activities.

Inexpensive but effective remedies for influenza and SARS for adults

Antiviral tablets in a wide range are presented in many pharmacies, but it is not easy for a sick person to understand the names of medicines and buy the most effective ones. This category includes the following drugs that have proven themselves in the treatment of influenza:

Ribavirin

The antiviral drug Ribavirin for influenza and other diseases of the upper respiratory tract is prescribed for adults in the form of tablets of 200 mg 3 to 4 times a day. The doctor may adjust the treatment regimen by prescribing large doses of the drug at the beginning of the course in order to eliminate the symptoms.

The price of this medicine is considered low and starts at 131 rubles in the country's pharmacies.

Ribavirin can cause side effects such as insomnia, headache, loss of appetite and other phenomena. It cannot be used:

• pregnant and lactating women;
• people who have had a myocardial infarction, severe anemia;
• patients with hypersensitivity to the drug.

If Ribavirin is used together with other medicines, be sure to consult your doctor.

Amiksin

The antiviral drug Amiksin is successfully used not only for the treatment of influenza and SARS, but also as a prophylactic against these ailments. Doctors recommend taking this medicine in a course of 6 tablets, but before using it, you should consult a specialist.

The effectiveness of Amiksin is high, and its cost in pharmacies depends on the dosage of the active substance. The average price of the drug is 500 rubles.

The drug Amiksin goes well with other medicines for the treatment of bacterial and viral infections, including antibiotics. On the part of the digestive system, side effects in the form of dispersion are possible, and experts note such phenomena as chills and an allergic reaction.

The medicine gives a good effect in the treatment of a viral infection characterized by an acute course.

Oseltamivir

Oseltamivir is an inexpensive analogue of the well-known drug Tamiflu. The latter is no different from the indicated drug, since both drugs contain the same active ingredient (oseltamivir phosphate). The medication should be started no later than 2 days after the onset of symptoms of influenza and other viral infections.

The drug in tablets should be taken on the basis of a dosage of 75 mg - 1 capsule 2 times a day, the duration of treatment is 5 days. The cost of the drug in the country's pharmacies starts from 700 rubles.

Ergoferon

Ergoferon helps to increase immunity and reduce swelling of the nasal mucosa. It can be used not only in the treatment of the disease, but also as a prophylactic. Taking this medicine should be started when the first signs of influenza and SARS are detected.

Ergoferon is taken on the first day of treatment every 2 hours, 1 tablet, then the same amount of medication is taken 3 times a day.

Ingavirin

The drug Ingavirin has a wide spectrum of action. It is effective in the treatment of influenza and other acute respiratory diseases, the drug stimulates the production of interferon in humans. Ingavirin should be taken immediately if signs of illness are detected, the dosage is 1 tablet per day.

The course of treatment depends on the individual characteristics of the patient and varies from 5 to 7 days. The tool is not toxic and will be well tolerated by the body, however, it is not prescribed for children.

Remantadine

Remantadine is a cheap and at the same time effective drug. It is recommended to use it during influenza epidemics, such a medicine contributes to a speedy recovery and improves a person's well-being. It is advisable to take the tablets in the first 48 hours after the discovery of signs of the disease.

The acute stage of the disease involves taking 300 mg of the drug once, then it should be drunk at the rate of 50 mg twice a day. The duration of treatment does not exceed 5 days, so if there is no improvement, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Antiviral agents fight the causative agent of the infection, thereby the unpleasant symptoms of the disease, such as sore throat and muscles, disappear. They should be prescribed by a doctor, however, many people self-medicate and buy medicines without prior consultation.

This approach can bring success, but it is best to find out the right dosage from a specialist.

Cold immunomodulators

Cheap antiviral drugs, the cost of which does not exceed 250 rubles when buying 10 tablets, have proven themselves well as immunomodulators. This category of medicines includes the following medicines:

Arbidol

The most affordable drug in the winter to combat influenza and SARS is Arbidol. A good antiviral agent stimulates cellular immunity, reduces the course of the disease and prevents the development of complications. The dosage of the drug depends on the individual characteristics of the person and the severity of the disease, most often an adult patient is prescribed 4 tablets per day.

The duration of treatment is on average 2 weeks, at the direction of a specialist, it can be reduced or increased.

The drug Arbidol has proven itself in the complex therapy of diseases such as, and other respiratory viral infections. It is worth using this medication with caution during pregnancy, but for diseases of the heart, kidneys and liver, you should not drink pills without a doctor's instructions.

Inexpensive cold pills are offered by the manufacturer of the drug Kagocel. It acts directly on the causative agent of influenza and SARS, even the use of the drug on the 4th day after the onset of symptoms of the disease has a positive effect.

The drug for adults is able to provoke the production of interferon, thereby the body during the illness and shortening the period of its course.

With SARS and other ailments, Kagocel is taken 3 times a day, 2 tablets, this treatment regimen is used for about 2 days. Further, the number of tablets is reduced to 1 piece. The final dosage of the drug depends on the severity of the disease and the condition of the human body, so you should consult your doctor.

The correct intake of Kagocel rarely causes an allergic reaction, most often the medication is well tolerated by patients.

Cycloferon

Cycloferon is also considered an effective drug for the treatment of influenza, tonsillitis and other diseases of the upper respiratory tract. The drug has an immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effect, due to which the course of the disease is significantly reduced, and the symptoms disappear.

The dosage is from 2 to 4 tablets, take the medicine 1 time per day. Cycloferon treatment can be combined with antipyretic and expectorant drugs.

Properly selected antiviral drugs help to defeat the disease and in the near future to do the usual things. Their advantage is not only the low price, but also the possibility of buying such a medicine at a pharmacy without a doctor's prescription.

However, uncontrolled use of medications can be harmful.

Inexpensive medicines for the treatment of influenza and SARS in infants

Treating a young child with the flu or SARS is a difficult task. Parents are often interested in which antiviral drugs are most effective and how to make the right choice, because most medicines should not be given to children.

But do not get hung up on expensive pills, it would be much better to understand the purpose of the funds and purchase effective medicines at competitive prices.

The following drugs, available at any pharmacy, will quickly help the baby:

• Viferon (150 thousand IU);
• Oscillococcinum.

Candles Viferon worth from 225 rubles for 10 pieces are successfully used in children with a runny nose, bronchitis, and, however, before using the medication, you need to consult a pediatrician. The drug helps the body produce interferon, thereby slowing down the process of reproduction of pathogens, the symptoms of the disease gradually disappear.

Suppositories are always prescribed by a specialist as part of complex therapy, and the duration of treatment depends on the doctor's recommendation.

The homeopathic remedy Oscillococcinum is often used to treat influenza in infants. The white granules are odorless, so children take this medicine without any hassle. The drug should be dissolved in a small amount of water and given to the child from a spoon, 1 dose of medication is enough to relieve flu symptoms.

If there is no improvement, you should consult a doctor and continue treatment. The cost of 6 Oscilloccinum granules in the country's pharmacies starts from 310 rubles.

Effective and affordable medicines for children from 1 year

If the symptoms of the disease have not subsided, a runny nose and other signs of the flu have appeared, it is necessary to resort to more effective medicines. Antiviral agents in the form of drops help to cope with the disease for children from 1 year old, the following names have proven themselves well:

• Anaferon;
• Tsitovir for children;
• Aflubin.

Anaferon is rightfully considered a cheap and effective drug for influenza and SARS.. This antiviral drug reduces the concentration of the pathogen in the body, improves immunity and brings relief by relieving symptoms such as sore throat, runny nose, high fever. So, on the first day of treatment, children are prescribed 10 drops of medication every half hour, then the same dosage is applied 3 times a day.

The remedy is convenient in that it is allowed to be taken without food, it is well absorbed by the body and acts quickly. The cost of Anaferon is small and starts from 220 rubles in the country's pharmacies.

Inexpensive and effective antiviral drug Cytovir in the form of a syrup for children has an immunomodulatory effect, destroying influenza pathogens. It is easily dosed with a measuring spoon, taken in a concentrated form shortly before meals.

For a child older than 1 year, the doctor prescribes the medicine, depending on the weight and age of the patient, the dosage can be from 2 to 8 ml of syrup per day. The average price of such a medication is 310 rubles.

And also the homeopathic preparation Aflubin in the form of drops has proven itself well, it is prescribed to children aged 1 year and over. This cheap and effective remedy has anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and immunomodulatory effects, reduces signs of intoxication and reduces the symptoms of the common cold.

So, with influenza and SARS, when acute symptoms of the disease are detected, children under 1 year of age are prescribed 1 drop of the drug no more than 3 times a day. For older children, doctors recommend taking 5 drops per day, the duration of the course of treatment varies from 5 to 10 days. In general, Aflubin is considered an effective and affordable medicine, its price varies from 200 to 450 rubles, depending on the volume of the bottle.

Inexpensive antiviral drugs help to cope with the disease at no extra cost, and you can buy them at the nearest pharmacy. However, parents are advised to listen to the doctor's advice and avoid independent treatment, especially if the disease progresses.

Preparations for the treatment of influenza and SARS in pregnant women

During the critical period, women often suffer from viral infections, especially in autumn and winter. Angina, flu and other ailments take the expectant mother by surprise, while the use of well-known and effective medicines is prohibited. However, the disease can be cured with the help of approved medications.

Antivirals - safe and cheap include the following names:

• Genferon (suppositories);
• Oscillococcinum;
• Anaferon for children.

Effective antiviral drugs are not toxic, so you don’t have to worry about the health of the unborn child. However, a doctor's consultation is mandatory, especially in the later months of pregnancy. Influenza weakens the body of a woman, negatively affecting the developing fetus and can even cause complications.

Auxiliary antiviral medicines against influenza and SARS

Respiratory diseases always disrupt the usual way of life, so a person cannot do without auxiliary means. Topical antiviral agents complement treatment and help fight symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat, and hoarseness.

The following medicines can be purchased at the pharmacy:

• Grippferon (drops and spray);
• Genferon (nasal spray).

Antiviral drug for influenza and SARS Grippferon has an anti-inflammatory effect. It is recommended to apply it to other diseases. The medication is safe and can be prescribed to children and pregnant women, while its price ranges from 229 to 300 rubles.

The tool is highly efficient and economical.

Spray Genferon is used for influenza and other respiratory diseases. A single injection of the drug relieves inflammation and relieves symptoms, this remedy can even be used to treat pregnant women and children. Contraindication to the use of Genferon is individual intolerance to the drug.

These drugs act on influenza viruses and prevent them from fusing with healthy cells, thereby stopping the further formation of the infection. So, the signs of the disease are minimized within a few hours after the use of local medicines, which helps a person to return to his usual life.

Rules for choosing an antiviral drug

An acute viral infection almost always takes a person by surprise, thereby forcing him to mask the symptoms of the disease with the help of antipyretics. However, it is impossible to drink them in large quantities; if signs of an illness are found, competent treatment should immediately begin.

Go to the doctor's appointment and to the pharmacy, which sells affordable and effective drugs.

When choosing medicines, consider the following features:

• release form;
• the presence of contraindications;
• patient's age;
• drug price.

For example, it is more convenient for children to use drops or suppositories, and a neutral or pleasant taste of the drug is also preferable. Do not forget about the age of the patient - the dosage of the remedy may depend on this. Antiviral drugs do not have to be expensive, you can buy good pills or syrup without hurting your wallet.

For a quick victory over the disease, consult a doctor, only a specialist will prescribe a competent treatment regimen that takes into account the characteristics of your body.

Volyk Larisa Vladimirovna

Reading time: 8 minutes

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Viral diseases are quite common, because the issue of treatment of such pathologies is very relevant. We have selected inexpensive, but effective antiviral drugs, let's look at them in more detail.

Operating principle

The right antiviral drug for a cold helps to cope with the causes of the onset of the disease and stop its development. Thanks to this, it is possible to obtain a number of positive effects:

• reduce the likelihood of recurrence of chronic ailments - for example, bronchitis or asthma;
• reduce the duration of a viral illness by several days and reduce its manifestations;
• minimize the threat of developing serious consequences.

In addition, inexpensive but effective antiviral drugs are given to adults as an urgent prophylaxis if someone is sick and the risk of infection needs to be minimized.

Classification

All remedies for viral infections are divided into several categories:

1. Vaccines- These substances are classified as prophylactic agents. They are used to develop immunity from a specific disease. Such funds should not be used after infection.
2. Antivirals- These substances cope with certain viruses. Thanks to their use, it is possible to suppress the reproduction of viral agents by acting on enzymes or neuraminidase. There are broad-spectrum antivirals and specific drugs. The second group includes inexpensive, but effective antiviral drugs for influenza - for example, rimantadine or zanamivir.
3. Immunomodulators or immunostimulants- such substances act on nonspecific immunity, which can be strengthened due to the production of interferon.

Overview of the most effective and inexpensive antiviral agents

The list of inexpensive, but effective antiviral drugs is very extensive. Thanks to the use of such funds, it is possible to improve their condition and stop the development of the disease.

This is a fairly well-known tool that allows you to cope with a variety of viruses, including swine flu. It is permissible to give the medication to children after 1 year.

Despite the many positive reviews, there are certain side reactions. They manifest as dry mouth, dizziness, apathy. There is also a risk of developing nausea, tachycardia, irritability.

The remedy should be used at the initial stage of the development of the disease immediately after the onset of symptoms. It is important to bear in mind that rimantadine has no effect on certain mutating viruses. In such a situation, more modern drugs are indicated.

Remantadine is forbidden to give to people with complex lesions of the kidneys and liver. In addition, contraindications include epilepsy.

The cost of capsules with a dosage of 100 ml is 200-300 rubles. Tablets have a volume of 50 mg. They cost up to 150 rubles.

This medicine is excellent for influenza A and B strains. It should be used at the initial stage of the development of the disease. Be sure to take into account the risk of adverse reactions. They can manifest in the form of nausea, sleep disturbances, diarrhea. Also, the drug can provoke a feeling of anxiety, depressive states, headaches and even hallucinations.

Since the drug has a pronounced toxicity, it must be taken with great care. No self-medication options are allowed. The minimum cost of funds is 1150 rubles. Therefore, you can choose a cheaper analogue of Tamiflu.

This product is considered to be of low toxicity. It is actively used for SARS and influenza. Also, the drug can be part of the combined treatment of pathologies of the bronchi and lungs. The tool can be used from the age of 3 for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes.

Adverse reactions are due to intolerance to the ingredients. The cost of capsules with a dosage of 100 mg is about 220 rubles.

This antiviral drug is actively used for ARVI and influenza. Also, the indications include adenoviruses, parainfluenza. The drug is prescribed exclusively for adult patients. Ingavirin has pronounced anti-inflammatory and antiviral characteristics.

The medicine does not have a toxic effect and rarely provokes an allergy. The cost of capsules with a dosage of 60 mg is approximately 350 rubles.

This tool has a fast action, but it can only be used after 18 years. It is permissible to drink it with adenoviruses, herpes infection, influenza and other anomalies.

The drug has strong toxic properties. It is forbidden to drink it with heart failure, complex forms of anemia, serious pathologies of the kidneys and liver. Also contraindications include heart attack, autoimmune diseases, suicidal tendencies. A medicine with a dosage of 200 mg will cost 160 rubles.

This substance has pronounced antiviral properties and is a strong immunomodulator. It has no toxic effect. In therapeutic doses, the drug does not provoke adverse reactions. In case of an overdose, allergies, lesions of the digestive tract, chills may appear.

It is permissible to give the medicine to children older than 7 years. The main indications include viral infections, influenza, cytomegalovirus. In addition, the drug is used for hepatitis of viral etiology and herpetic infection. Amiksin can be a component of combination therapy for tuberculosis. It can be used for urogenital infections and other anomalies. The cost of a substance of 125 mg is about 600 rubles.

This is an effective immunomodulator that can be given to children over 4 years old. The tool promotes the production of interferon. Thanks to this, the body copes with viruses and inflammatory reactions in ARVI, herpes, influenza.

The substance must not be used in case of high sensitivity to the components of the product. Also, contraindications include complex liver damage, diseases of the digestive system, and a history of allergic reactions. This drug costs about 165 rubles with a dosage of 150 mg.

This remedy is produced in the form of rectal suppositories. It has pronounced antiviral characteristics and is an excellent immunomodulator. The tool is included in the category of interferons and is prescribed from birth.

Key indications include respiratory viral infections, herpes. Also, the drug can be used for complications of pathologies of an infectious nature. Usually the course of therapy is 5 days. Viferon can be used even during pregnancy. The only contraindication is individual intolerance. The cost of a pack of candles is 150,000 IU - about 250 rubles.

This is an effective antiviral drug that has pronounced immunomodulatory properties. With the help of this drug, it is possible to cope with a viral infection. It can be an element of combination therapy for influenza and other anomalies.

The drug has an anti-inflammatory effect, therefore, during the period of using Anaferon, drugs with such an effect can be excluded. Due to the low concentration of active ingredients, the drug practically does not provoke negative reactions. The cost of the substance is about 200 rubles.

This tool has a wide spectrum of action. It is often prescribed as an antipyretic and analgesic. Also, the drug has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect, which is associated with the activation of interferon production and stimulation of T-leukocytes.

The substance is prescribed for various pathologies. It can be part of the complex therapy of influenza and viral infections. Treatment should continue for at least a week.

Despite the excellent performance, mefenamic acid also has undesirable consequences. They most often manifest themselves in the defeat of the digestive system and a decrease in blood clotting.

Therefore, people with ulcerative or hemorrhagic pathologies of the digestive tract should refuse such therapy. Otherwise, there is a risk of recurrence of the disease. The average cost of the drug is 200 rubles.

This is an effective antiviral substance, which is used as part of the complex therapy of vesicular stomatitis, influenza, herpes. The composition contains phenolic acids and antioxidants of plant origin. Due to this, the drug has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect.

The use of the substance for influenza and viral infections can significantly alleviate the course of the disease and prevent the occurrence of complications. In addition, the remedy successfully copes with the symptoms of such pathologies. The drug can be used for prophylaxis during epidemics or after contact with infected people.

The substance belongs to the group of very strong agents. It can be used by adults and children over 14 years of age. Treatment can last 3-7 days. Key contraindications include pregnancy, allergies and intolerance to ingredients. The cost of the substance is about 200 rubles.

This agent is suitable for intranasal administration. It has an immunomodulatory effect and perfectly copes with the inflammatory process. The duration of the course of treatment is determined by the doctor.

Children under 1 year should be administered 1 drop 5 times a day. Adult patients are shown the introduction of 3 drops 6 times a day. The course of therapy is 5 days.

Effective herbal antivirals

Many medicinal herbs are distinguished by antiviral activity and successfully cope with inflammatory processes. Often, herbal remedies are used to combat herpes infection.

The list of drugs that do an excellent job with viruses includes alpizarin. It contains substances such as mango leaf extract. The product also contains extracts of kopeechnik - alpine and yellowing.

No less effective means of natural origin is flacoside. The product contains substances that are obtained from Amur velvet.

For local use, the following ointments are suitable:

• megosin - the basis of the medicine is cottonseed oil;
• gossypol - the active ingredient is the result of the processing of cotton seeds;
• helepin - the leaves of Lespedeza penny are considered the active substance.

Proteflazid is also considered an effective remedy. It is made from soddy pike and reed. This substance is actively used for the prevention and treatment of viral diseases.

An excellent substance that has an antiviral effect and is considered an excellent immunomodulator is the German drug Imupret. It has oak bark, walnut leaves. Also included is horsetail.

Antiviral medicines for children are cheaper

Children very often suffer from viral infections, so the issue of treating young patients is considered extremely relevant. A specialist should select inexpensive but effective antiviral drugs for children, since their treatment has certain features.

If the baby's immunity is under serious stress, the use of such drugs will not bring the desired result. This is due to the fact that the main functions of removing viral agents lie with the immune system. If it is hyperactive, then antiviral drugs are not needed.

However, the doctor can choose active substances. For the treatment of babies, the following medicines can be used:

1. . This remedy is given to children over 1 year old. It is often drunk as a preventive measure to prevent infection with the flu.
2. . This substance should not be given to children under 1 year of age. The dosage should be calculated by the doctor, based on the weight of the child.
3. . This tool has a wide spectrum of action. In addition to viral infections and influenza, the drug successfully copes with herpes. The remedy can be given to children over 3 years old.
4. Isoprinosine. The drug can cope not only with SARS. It is given for herpetic infection, cytomegalovirus, the complex course of measles. It can also be used to treat chickenpox.
5. Anaferon for children. This tool is safe, it is prescribed for children older than 1 month.

The best antiviral agents from Dr. Komarovsky

Antiviral drugs during pregnancy

Pregnant women should not take large amounts of medication. The only exceptions are those funds that are vital for the expectant mother and baby. The body of pregnant women is faced with a weakened immune system, and therefore is exposed to serious threats of infection. SARS are especially dangerous at the initial stages. It is during this period that the organs of the baby are formed, and the placenta cannot provide them with reliable protection.

There are many effective remedies that can be used during the period of bearing a child. At the same time, any self-treatment options are strictly prohibited - the drugs should be selected by a doctor. Permitted medicines include the following:

Properly selected antiviral drugs help to cope with SARS, influenza and other similar pathologies. At the same time, it is very important to be treated under the supervision of a doctor, this is especially true for children and pregnant women.. Only a specialist can choose an effective remedy that will give the desired results and will not bring undesirable consequences to the body.