Interferon is an immunostimulating drug. Its benefits and harms depend solely on the appropriateness of use. If the drug is really indicated, then it will be beneficial.
Interferon during pregnancy is prescribed for the purpose of protective therapy. It is no secret that during pregnancy a woman’s body weakens, the immune system works “for two” and does not quite cope with colds and viral infections. Interferon alpha activates the production of specific proteins that interfere with the reproduction of the virus in the body. As a result, even if the infection enters the body, the disease is easier, fewer clinical manifestations, and recovery is much faster.
Leukocyte interferon is made from donated blood using a genetic engineering method. Specific changes are made to the structure of bacterial DNA, and then it is titrated and a drug is obtained.
Interferon during pregnancy is prescribed in the following cases:
- pneumonia;
- infections of the genitals and genitourinary tract;
- herpetic infection;
- hepatitis;
- gardnerellosis;
- human papillomavirus ;
- severe septic state and other infectious processes.
Interferon for pregnant women is available in ointments and suppositories - this is the optimal form of the drug for the treatment of the expectant mother. Before prescribing interferon alfa to a future mother, it is necessary to assess the ratio of the therapeutic effect and the possible effect of the drug on the fetus. Despite the fact that the drug interferon has proven itself with respect to many diseases, it still has a number of side effects and can have a negative effect on the fetus.
Interferon penetrates very well through the mucous membrane, then enters the bloodstream and spreads throughout the body to affected organs and tissues.
It is best to use interferon during pregnancy from week 28, as previously there is a higher risk of exposure to the fetus. In case of urgent need, you can use the drug from 14 weeks, but at a lower dosage and under strict medical supervision.
The cautious use of interferons in pregnant women is justified by the fact that after the birth of a child, its immune system produces another type of interferon that is not capable of proliferation. Therefore, interferon alfa in pregnant women should always be used with caution and under the supervision of a doctor.
There are combined preparations of interferon with antioxidant complexes. These additional substances significantly reduce the possible risk of side effects.
Interferon (drops) is a drug for immunostimulation acting through a layer of mucous cells of the nose or eyes. It is prescribed for pregnant women with flu and colds, as well as the viral inflammatory process of the eye conjunctiva.
There are a number of diseases in which the appointment of interferons is impossible:
- allergic reactions or hypersensitivity to the previous administration of the drug;
- decompensated diseases of the heart, lungs of the liver or kidneys;
- severe autoimmune pathology;
- pathological processes in the thyroid gland;
- neurological and mental disorders, including cramps.
During pregnancy, interferon can also be prescribed for the prevention of tumor pathology, because its antiproliferative effect is considered its main effect, i.e. inhibition of the growth and development of cancer cells.
Side effects when prescribing interferons in pregnant women can be:
- digestive upset;
- lack of stool;
- nausea and vomiting;
- weight loss;
- a decrease in the number of red blood cells and platelets in a blood test;
- instability of blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmias;
- loss of balance, dizziness, headaches;
- dry skin
- blurred vision.
If any of the above symptoms appear, it is very important to consult a doctor immediately.