Antiviral drugs have firmly entered our lives as an effective means in the fight against various infectious diseases. The range of use of such drugs is quite wide: from common colds to HIV. However, in everyday life they are most often used specifically for acute respiratory viral infections, so this article will discuss the best antiviral drugs for colds and flu.
Antiviral drugs: what are they?
It is known that the cause of many diseases is harmful bacteria and viruses that penetrate the human body. Antibiotics are often used to treat such ailments, but they are not always able to help. The thing is that such drugs are designed to destroy pathogenic microbes, while viruses are a completely different type of microorganisms. They are much smaller in size, and their structure is fundamentally different. Therefore, antibiotics are completely powerless against viruses.
In addition, by killing pathogenic bacteria, many antibiotics also destroy those microorganisms whose presence is necessary for humans. For example, after taking them, a decrease in immunity often occurs. Therefore, the use of antibiotics is permissible only in cases where they are prescribed by a doctor.
To combat viruses (namely, they are the cause of most colds), there are antiviral drugs for influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections. These medicines are divided into two main types:
- Etiotropic medications;
- immunostimulants.
Drugs of the first type suppress viruses and prevent their reproduction, while the second are designed to activate the body's natural defense systems.
These days, such products are presented on pharmacy shelves in a wide variety, and choosing the best antiviral drugs is not an easy task.
This article is intended to help you make your choice.
Antiviral homeopathic drugs
Among homeopathy there are the best antiviral drugs. They contain many immunostimulating substances that help cope with the virus. Experts have no doubt about the effectiveness of such products.
No. 1. Anaferon
Price – 200 rubles. Popular antiviral tablets are most often used to get rid of colds. The drug acts as an immunomodulator; the principle of action remains unknown. The medicine is not recommended to be taken during breastfeeding and pregnancy; proper studies have not been conducted.
No. 2. Immunal
Price – 380 rubles. An effective antiviral agent is available in the form of an oral solution and tablets. The base includes plant components that stimulate the human immune system. Often the drug is prescribed for the prevention and treatment of acute respiratory viral infections. The instructions describe in detail contraindications and possible side effects.
No. 3. Oscillococcinum
Price – 420 rubles. Antiviral drugs, such as Oscillococcinum, contain animal extracts. It is believed that effective active ingredients help adults quickly cope with the disease. The mechanism of action of the drug still remains unknown. The medicine has some contraindications that you should familiarize yourself with before starting therapy.
In the fight against various viral infections, it is advisable to use immunostimulants. To bring your health back to normal as quickly as possible, you should get tested and identify the type of pathogen. Next, the doctor will prescribe an appropriate treatment regimen.
Antiviral drugs for colds and flu: list
Currently, there is a huge selection of such tools. it is unlikely that it will be possible to describe in the article all antiviral drugs for flu and colds, the list of The most popular drugs of this type will be presented here, as well as their brief descriptions.
Immunostimulating and immunomodulating agents
The action of most of these antiviral drugs for flu and colds occurs due to special proteins - interferons. These proteins are present in the mucous membranes of the human body and are an important protective tool of the immune system. It is thanks to them that most viruses that enter our body immediately die. However, if the immune system is weakened, or the concentration of pathogens is too high, then infection occurs.
Immunostimulating agents are designed to increase the level of interferons and thereby speed up the healing process. They are considered the best antiviral drugs for colds .
There are two main mechanisms for this.
- Ready-made interferons, isolated from donor blood or synthesized artificially, are introduced into the patient’s body. The undoubted advantage of such drugs is the almost complete absence of contraindications for most of them. It is on this principle that many old and new antiviral drugs for children .
- Another option is drugs whose active ingredients force the body to produce its own protective proteins. Such drugs are called interferon inducers.
Both groups of medications are widely used as antiviral drugs for influenza and colds. A list of some such tools is presented below.
"Amiksin"
Release form: film-coated tablets of 60 and 125 mg.
Active ingredient: tilorone.
Used for the treatment and prevention of influenza and ARVI. Quickly and effectively stimulates the production of various types of interferons. Protective proteins begin to be actively produced 4 hours after the first dose. During the day, this process reaches its peak value. In addition, Amiksin prevents the proliferation of viruses in the body.
Children's age: it is acceptable to give to children over 7 years of age.
Pregnancy and lactation: contraindicated at any stage of pregnancy, as well as during breastfeeding.
Minimum cost: 510 rubles.
"Arbidol"
Release form: tablets and capsules of 50 and 100 mg.
Active ingredient: umifenovir.
A domestic drug developed back in the mid-70s. Has a complex effect. Increases immunity and, at the same time, directly suppresses the viruses themselves. Can be used for both treatment and prevention. Reduces the symptomatic manifestations of the disease, reduces its duration. Also, when taking Arbidol, the risk of possible complications is reduced.
Childhood. Contraindicated up to two years. For children from two to six years old, the daily dose should not exceed 50 mg.
Pregnancy and lactation: during the first three months of pregnancy, Arbidol is contraindicated. At later stages, its use is permissible only after consultation with a doctor. Contraindicated during breastfeeding.
Minimum cost: 140 rubles.
"Viferon"
Release form: suppositories for rectal use.
Active ingredient: interferon alpha-2b
A drug based on synthetic interferon. It is used in the treatment of children and adults from flu, colds and many other infectious diseases. Due to the fact that “Viferon is available in the form of suppositories, its effectiveness is significantly superior to similar antiviral drugs for colds and flu intended for pyrooral use. This also reduces the risk of side effects. The drug contains ascorbic acid and alpha-tocopherol acetate that make it even more effective.
Children's age: can be used from the first days of life.
Pregnancy and lactation: Contraindicated during the first three months of pregnancy, but allowed in later periods. Also allowed during breastfeeding.
Minimum cost: 220 rubles.
"Grippferon"
Release form: nasal drops, nasal spray.
Active ingredient: interferon alpha-2b.
Like the previous drug, Grippferon is made on the basis of synthetic interferon, but differs in its release form. Drops and spray are used to treat respiratory diseases, and are also used as antiviral drugs to prevent influenza in conditions of increased risk of infection (during epidemics, when communicating with a sick person). The use of Grippferon can reduce the duration of the disease by 1.5-2 times. Not addictive.
Children's age: allowed at any age.
Pregnancy and lactation: it is acceptable to use throughout the entire period of gestation, as well as during breastfeeding.
Minimum cost: 230 rubles.
"Ingavirin"
Release form: capsules
Active ingredient: imidazolylethanamide pentanedioic acid.
The drug has a wide spectrum of action. Actively suppresses various types of influenza viruses and other acute respiratory viral infections, preventing their reproduction, stimulates the production of interferons in the human body. In addition, it has an anti-inflammatory effect.
Children's age: in the treatment of respiratory diseases it is allowed to be used from 13 years of age. For prevention - no earlier than 18 years of age.
Pregnancy and lactation: the effect of the drug in such situations has not been fully studied, so its use is not recommended.
Minimum cost: 380 rubles.
"Kagocel"
Release form: 12 mg tablets.
Active ingredient: kagocel.
The drug is an interferon inducer. Promotes the production of protective proteins, quickly increasing the body's resistance to various viruses. It is also possible to use Kagocel for prevention during periods of seasonal epidemics.
Children's age: allowed to be given to children at least three years old.
Pregnancy and lactation: It is not recommended to take during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Minimum cost: 220 rubles.
"Cycloferon"
Release form: 150 mg coated tablets, solution for injection.
Active ingredient: meglumine acridone acetate.
The drug stimulates the production of interferons and also activates other properties of the immune system. In addition, it has antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects. Used for the treatment and prevention of influenza and ARVI. In addition, Cycloferon is used to treat many other viral diseases, such as herpes, hepatitis, HIV infection, etc. This widespread use is due to the wide spectrum of action of this drug.
Children's age: contraindicated in children under four years of age.
Pregnancy and lactation: contraindicated throughout pregnancy, as well as during breastfeeding.
Minimum cost: 170 rubles.
"Tsitovir-3"
Release form: capsules, syrup, powder for solution.
Active ingredient: alpha-glutamyl-tryptophan + ascorbic acid + bendazole.
An interferon inducer that is suitable for adults and children over one year of age. Used for treatment and prevention. Medicinal syrup is contraindicated for patients with diabetes.
Children's age: taking capsules is contraindicated for children under six years of age; syrup can be used starting from one year of age.
Pregnancy and lactation: the drug is contraindicated during pregnancy, but in some cases its use during breastfeeding is permissible (consultation with a doctor is required).
Minimum cost: 310 rubles.
Etiotropic drugs
The essence of etiotropic antiviral drugs for influenza and colds is that they act directly on the causative agents of the disease, thereby reducing their activity and complicating reproduction. This method of treatment is effective, but has its drawbacks. The main one is the need for accurate diagnosis, since the variety of viruses is very large and to combat them it is necessary to use various methods of influence.
Therefore, etiotropic drugs designed to fight one type of virus may be powerless against another.
This type of antiviral drugs for the prevention and treatment of influenza is divided into two main categories.
- M2 channel blockers, also called cyclic amines. These substances block the ion channels of pathogens, which prevents their reproduction and penetration into the human body. Cyclic amines are most effective against influenza A viruses, but with influenza B their use becomes useless. It also makes no sense to use such antiviral drugs for colds .
- Neuraminidase inhibitors. Neuraminidase is a special enzyme that allows viruses to invade human cells. Its inhibition prevents the spread of pathogenic microflora in the body. Drugs in this group are effective against viruses type A and B. In addition, they reduce the symptomatic manifestations of the disease.
The best antiviral drugs from these groups are listed below.
"Remantadine"
Release form: tablets 50 mg, capsules 100 mg.
Active ingredient: rimantadine.
Refers to M2 channel blockers. The most effective and safe drug of this variety. Unlike most similar drugs, Remantadine is also effective against some influenza B viruses. It is used for the treatment and prevention of influenza, however, it is undesirable to use this drug too often for the purpose of prevention, as this leads to the emergence of resistant strains of the virus.
Children's age: for the treatment of influenza it is permissible to use it from the age of seven. Giving Remantadine to children for prophylaxis is not recommended.
Pregnancy and lactation: the use of the drug during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not allowed.
Minimum cost: 80 rubles.
"Relenza"
Release form: powder for inhalation.
Active ingredient: zanamivir.
An effective drug related to neuraminidase inhibitors. Can be used against most influenza A and B viruses. It is used both for treatment and for prevention. Reduces the duration of the disease and alleviates its symptoms.
Children's age: can be used in children aged five years and older for the treatment and prevention of influenza.
Pregnancy and lactation: it is not recommended to use the drug during pregnancy, since its effects have not been fully studied. However, in exceptional cases, when the benefits of taking it outweigh the possible risks, doctors may prescribe Relenza to pregnant women. It should not be used without consulting a specialist. It is also undesirable to use the drug during lactation.
Minimum cost: 920 rubles.
"Tamiflu"
Release form: 75 mg capsules, powder for suspension.
Active ingredient: oseltamivir.
A drug developed in the USA. Like the previous remedy, it belongs to neuraminidase inhibitors. Effectively fights influenza A and B viruses. Use for prevention reduces the risk of infection by 92%. In treatment, Tomiflu is most effective if taken within 40 hours of the onset of the first symptoms. Many consider Tomiflu one of the best antiviral drugs .
Children's age: children from one year to eight years are given in the form of a suspension. From the age of eight you can take capsules.
Pregnancy and lactation: should be used with caution, after consultation with a specialist.
Minimum cost: 1220 rubles.
Homeopathic medicines
Special mention should be made of the so-called homeopathic antiviral drugs for colds . Many experts question the effectiveness of such drugs, while others even argue that it is due to the placebo effect.
Most of these drugs are positioned by manufacturers as immunomodulatory agents, but it is not possible to explain the mechanism of their action from a scientific point of view. In addition, the concentration of the active substance in them is often negligible. Thus, manufacturers’ statements about the effectiveness of such antiviral drugs for influenza and ARVI are distrustful.
However, for the sake of completeness, it is worth mentioning a few of them.
"Anaferon"
Release form: lozenges.
Active ingredient: antibodies to human interferon.
The drug is positioned as an immunomodulator, but the manufacturer does not provide data on its pharmacokinetics, so the principle of action remains unknown. In this case, the concentration of the active substance is 1 molecule per 100 million tablets. The rest of the drug consists of various types of ballast substances.
Children's age: allowed for use by children from one month.
Pregnancy and lactation: the drug has not been studied, so it is not recommended to take it during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Minimum cost: 200 rubles.
"Immunal"
Release form: tablets, oral solution.
Active ingredient: Echinacea purple herb juice.
A drug made on a plant basis. According to the manufacturer, it has etiotropic and immunostimulating properties, although experts differ in their opinions about the effectiveness of Echinacea purpurea. Can be used for the treatment and prevention of influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections. It should be noted that, like other preparations based on echinacea, it is considered a dietary supplement and not a drug.
Children's age: the solution is allowed for children from one year of age, tablets can be used from four years of age.
Pregnancy and lactation: use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is permitted as prescribed by a doctor.
Minimum cost: 270 rubles.
"Oscillococcinum"
Release form: pills.
Active ingredient: Muscovy duck liver extract.
A French drug created several decades ago to treat influenza, colds and a number of other diseases. Its mechanism of action is still unknown, since it was originally developed to combat microorganisms, the existence of which has been disproven. As in the case of Anaferon, the content of the active substance in the drug is negligible. Nevertheless, thanks to a competent advertising campaign, Oscillococcinum remains one of the most popular drugs used for the treatment and prevention of acute respiratory viral infections.
Children's age: allowed at any age.
Pregnancy and lactation: allowed at all stages of pregnancy, as well as during breastfeeding.
Minimum cost: 310 rubles.
Medicines for viral infections for children
Inexpensive but effective medications for influenza and viral infections can also be selected for children. It is worth remembering that there is no need to give children medications intended for adults. Sometimes the same drug is available in different forms and dosages depending on the age of the patient. In addition to those already listed, several more drugs should be noted that are acceptable for the treatment of children under one year of age.
- Viferon. A very strong immunomodulator that affects not only viruses, but also some bacterial infections. It can be used both as an independent medicine to get rid of viral diseases, and as a component of complex therapy. Available in the form of ointments and suppositories, it can even be used for the treatment of newborns.
- Grippferon. This is a topical drug, sold in the form of nasal drops or spray. With this remedy you can treat influenza even in newborns.
- Groprinosin. Suitable for children from one year old. It improves immunity well and strengthens the body's resistance to viral diseases.
Children's dosage and release forms are available for Arbidol and Kagocel. Other medications for adults can be prescribed to children in reduced doses. It is best if children's antiviral drugs are inexpensive but effective and are selected by a doctor. By seeking prompt medical attention for your child, you can minimize the side effects of medications.
Top antiviral drugs
It should immediately be noted that the effectiveness of an antiviral drug depends not only on the drug itself, but also on the individual characteristics of the patient’s body. Often, a medicine that works great for one person turns out to be completely useless for another. Therefore, any drug rating cannot be the ultimate truth. For each individual person, you should select the drug that is most effective in his case, and this should preferably be done under the supervision of a specialist.
However, here will be the top antiviral drugs compiled based on doctors' assessments. Each product was evaluated according to two criteria: effectiveness and safety. The overall assessment was derived based on the total ratio of these indicators. Perhaps this top antiviral drugs can help you make the right choice.
| Place in the ranking. | Name of the drug. | Efficiency assessment (on a 5-point scale). | Safety rating (on a 5-point scale). | Overall rating (on a 10-point scale). |
| 1 | "Tsitovir-3" | 4.00 | 4.67 | 8.67 |
| 2 | "Ingaverin" | 4.00 | 4.55 | 8.55 |
| 3 | "Cycloferon" | 4.33 | 4.17 | 8.5 |
| 4 | "Tamiflu" | 4.16 | 4.16 | 8.32 |
| 5 | "Amiksin" | 3.67 | 3.7 | 7.36 |
| 6 | "Viferon" | 3.5 | 3.83 | 7.33 |
| 7 | "Remantadine" | 3.27 | 3.55 | 6.82 |
| 8 | "Kagocel" | 3.4 | 3.33 | 6.73 |
| 9 | "Grippferon" | 3.18 | 3.55 | 6.73 |
| 10 | "Arbidol" | 2.85 | 3.5 | 6.35 |
However, we would like to remind you that this list of antiviral drugs is advisory in nature.
Effective antiviral tablets
To eliminate unpleasant symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, rhinitis and lacrimation, it is necessary to use cold and flu medications that are active against viruses such as.
- Picornaviruses.
- Reoviruses.
- Adenoviruses.
- Coronaviruses.
- Paramyxoviruses.
- Rhinoviruses.
The most effective drugs against influenza are considered to be.
- Groprinosin. A drug aimed at correcting immune function. It promotes the synthesis of cytokines and interferon, which are responsible for the body's resistance to viruses. Aimed at increasing the stability of immune functions against many microbes and bacteria.
- Arpeflu. An antiviral medicine that has anti-influenza and interferon-inducing properties, due to which the immune system is strengthened at the cellular and humoral level.
- Isoprinosine. Antiviral drug for colds, which is aimed at stimulating the synthesis of lymphocytes in the body. Blocks the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms.
Antiviral drugs for colds
This respiratory disease is considered quite mild, and it does not always make sense to resort to any antiviral drugs for a cold . It is often enough to follow the well-known recommendations: bed rest, plenty of fluids, more vitamin-rich foods - and the cold will go away on its own within a week.
However, modern people cannot always afford the luxury of a long illness. In situations where every day counts, antiviral medications for colds become indispensable. However, their use should be started immediately as soon as the first symptoms appear. The maximum effectiveness of any antiviral drug is achieved only in cases of timely initiation of treatment.
Most of the drugs described in the article have a wide spectrum of action and can be used both for colds and other acute respiratory viral infections.
The exception is narrowly targeted etiotropic drugs, such as Remantadine, Relenza, Tamiflu. Their use makes sense only in cases where there is confidence that the disease is caused by the influenza virus. to use these antiviral drugs for colds .
To distinguish one from the other, it is necessary to observe the symptoms. Typically, a cold develops according to the following scenario:
- A cough, runny nose occurs, and the nasopharyngeal mucosa swells;
- The temperature does not rise immediately, usually 1-2 days after the onset of the first manifestations of the disease, rarely exceeding 38-38.5 degrees;
- It goes away within a week, without any residual symptoms.
If such symptoms are observed, then the best antiviral drugs for colds will be broad-spectrum medications.
Influenza is characterized by more acute manifestations, which will be discussed below.
Antiviral agents are inexpensive but effective: reviews
The best assessment of antiviral drugs can be given by users who observe them in action.
Among the most effective, inexpensive and easy-to-use children's medications are Viferon or its analogue (Interferon) in the form of suppositories. They are very convenient to use, since candles can be placed even on newborns. If the child cannot or does not want to take tablets or syrup, it is enough to insert a suppository into the baby’s rectum, which is easy to do while asleep. The drug has a wide spectrum of action, the temperature goes away within 2-3 days.
Antiviral agents for adults Arbidol and Kagocel receive good reviews. They are inexpensive, but quickly relieve symptoms of diseases.
Among topical preparations, Acyclovir and oxolinic ointments are popular. The latter protects the respiratory tract well from infection, and Acyclovir perfectly relieves the manifestations of herpes.
Although today pharmacology offers antiviral drugs that are inexpensive but effective in large quantities, it is better if the doctor chooses them for the patient. You need to be especially careful with children under one year old. Even prevention must be structured competently in order to cause the least harm to the body.
Antiviral drugs for influenza
Flu is one of the most dangerous respiratory diseases. It often causes severe complications, which, without timely treatment, can even lead to the death of the patient. Therefore, the use of antiviral drugs for influenza is simply necessary.
As a rule, the flu begins suddenly. The temperature rises sharply. In the first couple of hours it can reach 39 degrees or higher. The fever is accompanied by headache, aches throughout the body, and weakness. Painful sensations are observed when moving the eyeballs. A couple of days after the onset of the disease, a dry cough appears, but most often there is no nasal congestion.
The disease usually lasts up to ten days, but even after recovery, a general loss of strength may be observed for two to three weeks.
Many immunomodulatory and etiotropic drugs contribute to the treatment of influenza. The drug Tamiflu has proven itself to be excellent, capable of dealing with most known influenza A and B viruses, including such dangerous diseases as swine and bird flu. However, it is worth noting that the price of this medicine is quite high.
Another time-tested drug is Remantadine. Its cost is many times lower, but it is intended only to combat type A viruses. In addition, over a long period of its use, strains resistant to its effects have been formed.
"Ambroxol"
Mucolytic drugs have expectorant, as well as secretolytic and secretomotor effects. The pharmacological effect occurs half an hour after consuming the drug. The duration of action varies from six to twelve hours.
Indications for use:
- Acute and chronic pathological processes of the respiratory system.
- Acute bronchitis (a form of diffuse inflammation of the bronchial tree, characterized by increased bronchial secretion and impaired bronchial obstruction).
- Chronic bronchitis (diffuse progressive inflammatory process in the bronchi, leading to morphological restructuring of the bronchial wall and peribronchial tissue).
- Bronchiectasis (a disease characterized by irreversible changes (expansion, deformation) of the bronchi).
- Bronchial asthma (a chronic inflammatory disease of the respiratory tract, characterized by asthma attacks of varying duration and frequency).
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (a progressive disease characterized by an inflammatory component, impaired bronchial obstruction at the level of the distal bronchi and structural changes in the lung tissue and blood vessels).
- Bacterial pneumonia (infection of the lungs with certain bacteria, such as Haemophilus influenzae or pneumococcus).
New antiviral drugs for children
Unfortunately, the majority of antiviral drugs have certain age restrictions. Perhaps the only means that can be used from the first days of life are time-tested drugs based on interferon (Viferon, Grippferon, Interferon). Such medications contain protective proteins natural to the human body, so negative reactions to them are extremely rare.
Also, some homeopathic medicines, such as Anaferon and Oscillococcinum, are suitable for newborns, but their dubious effectiveness has already been discussed in this article. They can hardly be considered the best antiviral drugs for colds.
However, there are now new antiviral drugs for children that can be used from an early age.
- Children one year of age and older can be given the following medications:
- "Tamiflu";
- "Tsitovir-3";
- "Immunal".
- Suitable for children over 3 years old:
- "Arbidol";
- "Kagocel".
- For children over 7 years of age:
- "Amiksin";
- "Cycloferon" (can be given to children from 4 years old);
- "Remantadine" (for treatment only);
- "Relenza" (suitable for use from 5 years of age).
These new antiviral drugs for children will help protect the child and also contribute to a speedy recovery in case of illness.
ethnoscience
As a rule, treatment of acute respiratory diseases in adults is carried out at home. In this situation, folk remedies are often used:
- Rinsing with decoctions of sage, as well as chamomile and calendula (2 tablespoons per 200 ml of water) helps well against inflammatory lesions of the tonsils.
- For hoarseness, eggnog is effective - two egg yolks should be ground until white with sugar, taken in between meals.
- Radish with honey helps with cough. Take a black radish, cut off its lower part, leaving the upper part (with the tail) intact. Then use a knife to make a hole in the root crop and fill it with honey. The cut part is covered with a hole on top and time is given for the formation of healing juice inside the fruit. Take a tablespoon of juice three times a day.
- Inhalations with chamomile. One spoon of herb should be poured with a glass of hot water. Then you should cool the solution slightly and breathe over the steam for twenty-five minutes. Inhalations can also be done with potatoes.
- Raspberries and oregano should be mixed in a ratio of two to one and brewed with boiling water. The infusion should be consumed hot three times a day, half a glass.
- Infusion of linden flowers - pour two tablespoons of the plant into two glasses of hot water. The drink should be left for thirty minutes, then strained and consumed half a glass after meals, up to five times a day.
- Averin tea is an effective remedy in the fight against pathogens. To make it, you need to pour 30 grams of string and a tricolor violet with half a stalk of black nightshade with hot water. Then take a tablespoon four times a day.
Antiviral drugs to prevent influenza
The undoubted advantage of antiviral drugs is that most of them can be used not only for treatment, but also for the prevention of respiratory infections.
Of course, a timely vaccination can be considered the most reliable means of preventing influenza, but often it does not save. Viruses tend to mutate and change, and vaccine developers cannot predict the emergence of new strains.
To prevent such situations, it is recommended to take prophylactic antiviral drugs. It is especially important to take antiviral medications to prevent influenza in the fall and spring. It is during these periods that the main peak of epidemics usually occurs.
In addition, it would be a good idea to take precautions if one of your family members gets sick. All healthy relatives who regularly communicate with the patient are recommended to take a course of antiviral drugs to prevent influenza . This will reduce the risk of infection.
However, you should not overuse antiviral drugs. Further it will be said what threat their thoughtless use can pose.
The best antivirus products
Immunologists believe that antiviral drugs should have a complex and etiotropic property. Only then will it be possible to eliminate the signs of the disease by destroying viruses. Also, such drugs help to avoid complications that may arise after illness. Therefore, the following are considered the best antiviral agents.
- Remantadine. One of the strongest antiviral agents that can overcome viruses and quickly relieve symptoms of the disease in the early stages. It is active against arboviruses and influenza B viruses.
- Immusstat. A drug that has a wide range of effects. Active substances help instantly eliminate rotavirus and herpes.
- Lavomax. An immunostimulating drug that is capable of inducing interferon in the body. Aimed at stimulating the production of lymphocytes and neutrophils, which fight microbes.
It is difficult to say exactly how effective these drugs really are. Such means help some, others do not see results. Perhaps when taking antiviral drugs the placebo effect is triggered, perhaps some of the patients have stronger immunity. Therefore, each patient can decide for himself whether to take expensive medications or not.
It is only worth noting that they should not be used very often for treatment and prevention. Since the immune function weakens, and the production of its own interferon disappears. Experts say that only three courses of antiviral drugs should be taken per year and no more, so as not to harm yourself.
Antiviral agents for children over 1 year of age
An antiviral drug for children after one year can be presented as syrup, spray, etc. In most cases, doctors prescribe one inexpensive and effective medicine.
No. 1. Orvirem
The active ingredient is rimantadine hydrochloride, which effectively copes with any type of influenza. The product is dispensed as syrup and is taken strictly according to the instructions, with an emphasis on the age of the child. The drug is considered the most effective among analogues, since it begins to act 5 hours after consumption. The course lasts at least 4 days, the duration is increased in agreement with the pediatrician.
No. 2. Immunal
Antiviral medications cannot do without a drug that is ideal for children over one year of age. Doctors prescribe Immunal in drop form containing medicinal herbs. The drug is easily tolerated by the body, copes with ARVI and influenza, and also strengthens the immune system in the off-season. The therapeutic course lasts a week.
No. 3. Thymogen
The antiviral agent is applied topically, which reduces the number of contraindications for children over the age of one year. Alpha-glutamyl-tryptophan, being the main substance of the drug, quickly increases the body's protective functions. The drug is prescribed for any infection of a bacterial or viral nature, accompanied by a decline in immunity. "Timogen" is also effective for chronic illnesses. The medicine is injected into the nasal passages for 10 days.
No. 4. Tsitovir-3
Antiviral immunostimulating syrups are ideal for children over 1 year of age, as they contain important compounds for quickly combating the virus. The basis is vitamin C, thymogen, dibazol. In combination, the components accelerate the production of interferon, which suppresses the infectious agent. It is advisable to take “Tsitovir-3” for influenza and ARVI for 4-5 days.
Complications of ARVI
ARVI in itself is not a dangerous disease. Much worse are its complications, which can be avoided by starting treatment on time. Viruses live and multiply in the body for 5 days. If during this period of time you have not dealt with them, a bacterial infection occurs.
The most common complications:
- Bronchitis. Bacterial infection affecting the bronchi. It manifests itself as a severe cough with difficult to separate sputum, difficulty breathing.
- Pneumonia. The infection is localized in the lung tissue, causing inflammation. Characterized by cough with fever, shortness of breath, wheezing in the lungs.
- Otitis. With this disease, the inflammatory process is localized in the ear. Manifested by pain, tinnitus, hearing loss.
- Sinusitis. Inflammation of the paranasal sinuses. Characterized by headache, tinnitus, and impaired nasal breathing.
Less common complications of the neurological system are meningitis, neuritis (inflammatory disease of the peripheral nerves), encephalitis, convulsive syndrome. These conditions are very dangerous and require immediate hospitalization.
ARVI symptoms
The severity of symptoms and course of the disease depends on the immunity of the individual. The weaker the immune system, the more severe the disease.
ARVI symptoms are divided into primary and secondary.
Primary signs appear in the first few hours after the virus enters the body:
- sore throat;
- nasal discharge;
- tearing eyes;
- frequent sneezing.
Secondary symptoms develop after the virus has multiplied and entered the blood:
- general weakness;
- a sore throat;
- nasal congestion;
- increased body temperature;
- cough;
- muscle pain.
Antiviral agents for children over 3 years old
Antiviral drugs developed for older children (from 3 years old) are relatively inexpensive but effective.
No. 1. Arbidol
The antiviral drug from the Russian manufacturer is known throughout the world; it is actively purchased for children. "Arbidol" is available in tablet form and syrup form. The drug based on umifenovir is endowed with powerful antiviral properties. The action lies in enhancing the production of interferon, which helps suppress infection. The medicine is taken for rotavirus infection, ARVI, influenza, accompanied by a decline in the immune system.
No. 2. Hyporamine
The plant-based herbal medicine includes sea buckthorn leaf extract. Antiviral tablets give good results in the treatment of chickenpox, influenza of all types, ARVI, adenovirus infection, herpes, etc. Contraindications include intolerance to the incoming substances.
No. 3. Groprinosin
An immunostimulating drug with antiviral activity includes inosine pranobex. This substance builds the cellular components of the immune system, inhibiting the infectious agent. Pediatricians prescribe the medicine in combination with other medications for herpes, chickenpox, influenza, human papillomavirus infection, ARVI, etc. The daily dosage is calculated according to the age and weight categories of the patient.
No. 4. Kagocel
The antiviral agent contains the active substance of the same name. Often, Kagocel is prescribed for children to destroy various infections and strengthen the immune system. The drug is approved from 3 years of age. It fights viral infections, including herpes and influenza.
Treatment of ARVI
Treatment of colds is aimed at suppressing viruses. Currently, there are several groups of drugs used to treat ARVI.
Drugs are divided into the following groups:
- antiviral drugs;
- immunomodulators.
Antiviral agents
These are drugs that suppress the reproduction of viruses and destroy their structure. Reduce the risk of complications.
- Rimantadine has a detrimental effect on type A viruses. It is effective if treatment is started at the first symptoms. Analogs of the drug are ARVIrem, Tsitovir.
- Tamiflu. The active ingredient is Oseltamivir. Acts on viruses of type A and B. Destroys viral cells, reduces their pathogenic properties. Protects the body from the spread of viruses. Able to shorten the duration of the disease. Reduces the risk of complications. Analogues of the drug based on the active substance are Nomides, Relenza.
- Amiksin. The active ingredient of the drug is tilorone. Acts on viruses A and B. It suppresses the reproduction of viruses and reduces their activity. Analogues - Lavomax, Tiloram.
Antiviral drugs for children over 6 years old
For children over 6 years of age, medications with a more pronounced effect are prescribed. The drugs destroy the pathogen and prevent relapse.
No. 1. Amiksin
Antiviral tablets contain tilorone. They are prescribed for children who have weakened immune systems. The medicine is used for the prevention and treatment of acute respiratory viral infections and influenza. To cope with symptoms, it is enough to give 1 tablet per day for 3 days.
No. 2. Relenza
The drug is sold in powder form and is used for inhalation. The active substance zanamivir has targeted antiviral properties. When used, the medicine shows high effectiveness. Inhalations are carried out for 5 days twice a day.
No. 3. Rimantadine
Cheap antiviral drug in tablet form. The drug is intended for children who suffer from influenza or ARVI. To eliminate the disease, 1 tablet is prescribed twice a day. The duration of the course is 5 days.
No. 4. Cycloferon
"Cycloferon" is famous for its powerful antiviral and immunomodulatory properties. The drug is used to treat serious diseases such as hepatitis, HIV, herpes, influenza, etc. The dosage for a child is established exclusively by a pediatrician, taking into account individual characteristics.
Incubation period
Acute respiratory viral infections, when they enter the body, first settle on the mucous membranes. They then release toxins and are absorbed by the circulatory system, through which they are distributed throughout the body.
In turn, the human body begins to fight these toxins, as a result of which the temperature rises.
The incubation period, from the moment the virus enters the mucous membrane until symptoms appear, averages 3 to 5 days.
Immunity to these diseases is not developed, since there are many viruses and stamps that constantly adapt and mutate. Because of this, ARVI in adults can recur 4 times a year.
Antiviral from 1 year to 3 years
As the child grows, the list of approved medications for the treatment and prevention of various viral infections expands. The most effective antiviral drugs for children 2 years old:
- Acyclovir for chickenpox and herpes;
- Arbidol, Anaferon, Orvirem, Tsitovir.
In addition, the same medications are used that are used to treat infants (suppositories, nasal and ophthalmic drops).
Antiviral agents for children over 12 years of age
At this age, medications suitable for adults are prescribed. However, patients should not have chronic pathologies or low body weight.
No. 1. Ingavirin
Vitaglutam is the main component of the product. The substance has anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and antiviral effects. To eliminate the infection, take 1 capsule per day. Duration of therapy is 1 week.
No. 2. Amizon
A good antiviral agent intended for older children contains enisamium iodide. The active component, penetrating the body, increases the synthesis of interferon. As a result, pathogenic microorganisms are inhibited. The virus dies and stops developing.
The best cough remedies for adults
Mukaltin
- Average price - 15 rubles
- Release form: 50 mg tablets.
This inexpensive expectorant is suitable for those who suffer from a cough with phlegm that is difficult to clear, and whose lungs feel “clogged” with mucus.
The main active ingredient of Mucaltin is a plant extract called marshmallow. It enhances the secretion of the bronchial glands, while simultaneously stimulating the work of the ciliated epithelium and the peristalsis of the respiratory bronchioles.
The sour taste of the medicine is explained by the presence of tartaric acid in its composition.
These tablets can be dissolved, chewed, or even dissolved in warm water - whichever is more convenient for you.
Mucaltin cannot be classified as a fast-acting remedy; its expectorant effect does not occur immediately, but after a day. But with its help, the cough becomes moist (productive, as doctors call it) and goes away faster.
Linkas
- Average price - 180 rubles
- Release form: syrup.
A pleasant, albeit cloying taste, quick action, composition with a large number of plant extracts (licorice, hyssop, violet, marshmallow, galangal, etc.) - this is what users like about this syrup.
It quickly helps transform a dry cough into a wet one, and is suitable not only for adults, but also for children from 6 months, which indicates the safety and gentle effect of this product.
In addition to Linkas syrup, it is also available in the form of lozenges with different flavors, and is called Linkas Lor.
ACC
- Average price - 250 rubles
- Release form: effervescent tablets 200 mg.
This is, perhaps, the best remedy for thinning viscous sputum in the lungs, when a dry cough has already passed or is still tormenting, but a wet cough cannot begin.
The active ingredient of ACC is acetylcysteine, which reduces the viscosity of sputum and also stimulates the protection of cells from the effects of free radical oxidation, which occurs during a strong inflammatory reaction.
ACC has a pleasant sweetish taste, and improvement usually occurs a day after starting use. And 2-3 days after starting treatment, the cough completely disappears.
Those who do not like effervescent tablets can purchase ACC in the form of syrup or granules to prepare an orange-flavored solution.
The best cold remedies for adults
Xylene nasal drops 0.1%
- Average price - 35 rubles
- Release form: nasal drops.
The active ingredient in these effective nasal drops is the same as in many more expensive drugs. Namely, xylometazoline hydrochloride.
Its action is aimed at narrowing the vessels of the nose, resulting in hyperemia (excessive filling of blood vessels with blood) and swelling of the mucous membrane. And for some time (up to 6 hours) nasal breathing improves.
However, like other vasoconstrictor drugs, Xylene cannot be used for a long time (no more than 5 days).
Afrin, nasal spray 0.05%
- Average price - 115 rubles
- Release form: nasal drops.
Another vasoconstrictor drops for the common cold, but they do not contain xylometazoline, but oxymetazoline. It reduces swelling in the nasal mucosa, paranasal sinuses and eustachian tube and improves nasal breathing.
Afrin drops have a convenient dispenser, no discomfort when used, and the effect lasts up to 12 hours.
Pinosol nasal drops, 10 ml
- Average price - 206 rubles
- Release form: nasal drops.
A real find for those who are looking for a remedy for the common cold with natural ingredients. Pinosol contains mint, pine, eucalyptus oils, as well as thymol and guaiazulene.
This combination has not only an anti-inflammatory, but also an antimicrobial effect, reduces mucus production and increases the permeability of the nasal passages.
Pinosol has a minimum of contraindications, including age under 2 years, allergic rhinitis and individual sensitivity to any of the substances in the drug.
The drops have a pleasant mint smell, an oily texture, and have a long-lasting effect (up to 6 hours). They can be used without interruption for up to 7 days.
Benefits of antiviral drugs in tablets
The tablet form of antiviral drugs has several important advantages over injections, suppositories, powders and mixtures.
- Ease of use: tablets can be carried with you and taken on a schedule.
- No pain or local reactions – redness, burning, swelling.
- Efficacy: Tablets and capsules take a little longer to be absorbed, but have a stronger effect and last longer than powders and syrups.
- Cost: Tablet medications are inexpensive and do not require supplies or nurse fees.
