Best Antiviral Drugs in 2024

Colds can be contracted regardless of the season. The disease affects the human body during the winter months and early spring due to a lack of vitamins. In the fall, damp unstable weather provokes the disease. In summer, the culprits of the disease are air conditioning and bathing in cold water. Therefore, medicines for this disease should always be available. After all, the earlier you start treatment, the more successful it will be. Traditionally, this is done using means to combat viruses. To figure out which one is better, the rating of antiviral drugs will help.

Types of medicines

The onset of a cold is accompanied by general malaise and a feeling of weakness. A person feels a sore throat, a runny nose begins, a slight weakness arises, which prevents him from working at full strength and doing household chores. Most people prefer to spend this time on their feet and are treated with folk remedies that are not very effective. Meanwhile, taking medications should be started early.

Antiviral medications should be taken as soon as the first symptoms of the disease are felt. After just 2-3 days, their effectiveness is significantly reduced.

Do not take antibiotics to treat colds, since these substances do not affect the spread and development of viruses in any way. Their reception is justified only if bacterial infection joins the flu.

Viruses cause many diseases, not just the flu. But this does not mean that a separate drug should be selected for each ailment. In most cases, these drugs work well for many diseases.

All medicines that cope with viral diseases are divided into two large subgroups:

• interferons, which stimulate the production of antibodies by the immune system;
• agents that kill viruses.

The second group includes medicines that destroy herpes, retroviruses, herpes, cytomegalovirus.

In a separate category, there are plant-based and homeopathic remedies. In most cases, the effectiveness of such medicines does not have a scientific basis. Due to the high cost of research, only the manufacturers themselves or other parties are interested in their conduct. Therefore, you need to understand that the bulk of the cold preparations available in the pharmacy are just dummies.

The opinions of doctors differ regarding the effectiveness of treating the common cold with immunomodulators.Some are sure that such treatment allows to successfully defeat the disease in a short time. Others believe that human immunity has not yet been studied sufficiently to assert the safety of such drugs. You need to take such drugs in advance, for prevention purposes, since they do not work immediately.

Broad-acting remedies

The group includes human interferon or its synthetic analogs. It also includes medicines that enhance and stimulate immunity, which force the body to synthesize its own interferon.

This term refers to several proteins that are produced by cells during a virus attack. There are three types of such substances. They themselves do not attack viruses, but affect the cellular structure in such a way that it changes and prevents the spread of the invader's cells. In addition, such funds make the immune system work in an enhanced mode.

Mass administration of inhibitors is practiced exclusively on the territory of the post-Soviet space. Abroad, they are sold in pharmacies only upon presentation of a prescription. Herbal remedies also have an extensive list of effects. Most of them stimulate the production of interferon.

Interferon

This remedy is often recommended to be used for healing from various viral diseases. It is also prescribed as a prophylactic agent. The drug is a powder packaged in 2 ml ampoules. It must first be diluted with water, and then dripped into the nose, 5 drops in the morning and evening hours. The duration of admission is different. To prevent an illness, it is recommended to use the remedy while there is still a danger of catching a virus.

In those cases, if the signs of the disease have already manifested themselves, they begin to be treated as early as possible. The amount of the drug remains the same, but the frequency of administration is increased up to five times. You can use this solution for inhalation. To do this, dilute the contents of three ampoules in 10 ml of purified water.

There is no exact data regarding the intake of interferon for young children and pregnant women. But some experts still prescribe this drug even to babies.

• can be used to prevent disease and its treatment;
• inexpensive remedy;
• safe for pregnant women and children.

• effective for treatment only if therapy is started early;
• you must first dilute with water;
• reception several times a day.

The average price of the drug is from 80 rubles.

Grippferon

The basis of this drug is the same human interferon. But on sale it comes in the form of ready-made drops or spray. In this case, the equivalent of one package of Grippferon is 100 ampoules of Interferon.

The advantage of this remedy is that it can be used in the treatment of viral diseases in children and women during pregnancy. To treat influenza in adults, you need to instill three drops of the substance into the nasal passages. It is allowed to use this remedy 6 times a day. The treatment regimen for children depends on the age category. If drops are used to prevent infection, then two instillations per day are enough. The drug is good because it does not provoke allergies.

• ready to use;
• allowed for children and pregnant women;
• can be used to treat and prevent disease.

• expensive drug.

The average cost of funds is from 225 rubles.

Viferon

Another form of interferon, which is found on sale in pharmacies in the form of suppositories. They are introduced into the body rectally. It is especially convenient to use this drug to treat a viral disease in babies. It is also produced in gel form or as an ointment.

Pregnant women can also use it, but only in the second trimester. The tool is good because it does not harm your health.

• convenient for treating children;
• available in various forms;
• allowed during pregnancy;
• there are no contraindications.

• high price.

The average cost of such a drug is 260 rubles.

Amiksin

This drug is recommended for both treatment and prevention of infection. Its analogs are Telaksin and Lavomax. The main active ingredient is tilorone. The drug quickly acts against viral infection and significantly strengthens the immune system. The disadvantage of this medication is that it can only be used on adults and children over 7 years of age. Breastfeeding and pregnancy are also contraindications for Amiksin. It is sold in pharmacies in tablet form.

• can be used for both treatment and prevention of infection;
• quickly copes with the disease.

• there are contraindications;
• there are side reactions in the form of vomiting, allergies, nausea and abdominal pain;
• expensive drug.

The average cost of a drug is 600 rubles.

Kagocel

This preparation is based on the sodium salt of the copolymer. Thanks to this substance, the agent successfully fights viruses and stimulates the immune defense. It affects the production of late interferon, which actively fights against viruses. Treatment with Kagocel will be more successful if started immediately after the first symptoms appear. The effect of taking the drug will be only if treatment is started before the fifth day from the onset of the disease. it is also recommended to take this medication to prevent virus infection.

The drug usually has no side effects. Sometimes there is an allergic reaction to it. Children can be given it from the age of three. It should not be used for treatment and as a means of preventing infection for nursing mothers and pregnant women.

• effectively treats and prevents viral diseases;
• side effects are rare;
• can be used for children.

• there are contraindications;
• the course of treatment requires 2 packs.

The average cost of the drug is 250 rubles.

Ribavirin

This drug shows a good effect on many types of the virus and destroys them by incorporating into their structure. This leads to various mutations, which reduces the viability of pathogenic microorganisms. The drug is commercially available in tablets or capsules. Although it works well, not everyone can take it. Among the contraindications are children's age, heart disease and the autoimmune system. After taking the drug for six months, you cannot plan a pregnancy.

• effective against viruses.

• many side effects;
• many contraindications;
• pregnancy cannot be planned.

The average cost of the drug is 90 rubles.

Derinat

This drug is produced in Russia and has an immunomodulatory effect. The main active ingredient is sodium deoxyribonucleate. The tool acts in a complex way: it stimulates the action of phagocytes, accelerates metabolic reactions, and activates DNA production. It can be used as the only drug against viruses. Moreover, the greatest effectiveness of treatment is observed if therapy is started on the first day.

This remedy does not have a harmful effect on health, so it can be used to treat patients of all ages. The drug should be dripped 2 drops into the nose every 1.5 hours. Then the intensity is reduced to 3-4 times a day.

• effectively treats viral diseases;
• can be used from infancy;
• does not give side effects.

• high price.

The average cost of drops is 290 rubles.

Means of complex action with antihistamines and immunomodulators

Such drugs are in great demand in pharmacies, as they act in several directions at once. Their reception allows you to stop the inflammatory process, relieve spasms, activate the immune defense, and stop possible allergic reactions.

Anaferon

This drug belongs to homeopathic remedies. It stimulates the immune system to act against influenza viruses. Experts recommend using Anaferon not only to treat viral diseases, but also to prevent infection during the cold season. According to the manufacturer, the medicine, produced in the form of tablets, promotes a quick cure from the disease and reduces the likelihood of complications.

This medication can be used during pregnancy and for children. It is not an obstacle to its reception and breastfeeding. The only limitation on its intake is a negative reaction of the body to lactose. The product generally shows good effectiveness and does not cause negative health effects.

• effectively treats viral colds;
• can be given to children;
• approved for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding;
• acceptable price;
• does not give complications;
• few contraindications.

• the remedy is homeopathic, so it does not always help.

The average cost of the drug is 170 rubles.

Aflubin

This drug also belongs to the homeopathic group, it is produced in Austria. It is based on a plant extract from gentian, bryony and aconite. The remedy works in several directions. After taking it, the body temperature decreases, pathogenic viruses are destroyed, and the immune defense is activated. Aflubin is on sale in the form of tablets and in liquid form.

This remedy has no contraindications. The only obstacle can only be individual intolerance. The medicine can be given to children, pregnant and lactating women, if the doctor permits.

• complex action;
• has no contraindications;
• allowed for children and during pregnancy.

• high price.

The average cost of the funds is 360 rubles.

Arbidol

An effective drug against colds, viral infections and flu. It is based on umifenovir. The tool effectively destroys viruses of various actions, preventing their penetration into cell membranes. The medicine stimulates the synthesis of interferons, activates the activity of phagocytes, and stimulates the immune system.

Usually it does not give complications, only in some cases there may be allergic reactions. You can not take it with high sensitivity and children under three years old. No research has been conducted on pregnant and lactating women. Arbidol does not affect the quality of the nervous system, therefore it can be recommended to be taken by people whose activities require increased concentration of attention. The drug is available in capsules, powder and tablets.

• complex action;
• effective destruction of viruses;
• does not give negative side effects;
• acceptable cost.

• there are contraindications.

The average cost of the drug is from 180 rubles.

Ergoferon

This is a remedy from the homeopathic group. Effectively copes with viruses and has an antihistamine effect. On sale, it is found in tablet form. It should not be taken in case of individual intolerance and children under 6 months. During pregnancy, the medicine can be drunk only on the recommendation of a doctor. Ergoferon is also prescribed to prevent diseases.

• effectively removes viruses;
• has an antihistamine effect;
• few contraindications;
• can be used for prevention.

• high price.

On average, the price of the drug is from 280 rubles.

Ingavirin

The Russian drug acts in several directions. It prevents viruses from multiplying and stops inflammation in the body.The main active ingredient of this drug is vitaglutam. Ingavirin is on sale only in the form of capsules. In this case, the concentration of the active substance may differ. Means with a lower content of vitaglutam are recommended for the treatment of children from the age of 7 years. It has no other restrictions. Pregnant and lactating women should only take it on the advice of a doctor. Ingavirin drink 1 capsule per day.

• complex effective action;
• simple reception scheme;
• there are no contraindications.

• high price;
• should not be given to children under 7 years of age.

The average cost of a medicine is from 450 rubles.

Herbal preparations

These herbal remedies are recommended for the prevention of diseases. They will become an excellent alternative to chemicals, the long-term use of which causes concern in many patients.

Hyporamine

A plant-based agent that has an inhibitory effect on viruses. It is recommended for the treatment of various viral diseases. The main active ingredient is sea buckthorn extract. It is commercially available in the form of lozenges. It can be given to children from the age of three. At an earlier age, it is not recommended to use it, since the child will not be able to dissolve the pill.

• no contraindications;
• herbal preparation;
• affordable price.

• not found.

The average cost of the drug is from 130 rubles.

Oscillococcinum

This homeopathic medicine is produced in France. It is based on cells from the heart and liver of ducks. This remedy is recommended for healing from colds, acute respiratory viral infections and flu. Release form - granules in tubes. The drug has no contraindications, it can be given to pregnant women, if a doctor's permission is obtained. The dosage has no age restrictions; in case of a severe form of the disease, the number of doses is simply increased.

• preparation on a natural basis;
• no contraindications;
• convenient reception scheme;
• can be given to children.

• high price.

The average price of the product is 330 rubles.

Immunal

The basis of this herbal preparation is an extract from echinacea, as well as vitamin C. The remedy is on sale in the form of tablets or syrup. It is recommended to take it to boost the immune system or to prevent flu and colds. An alternative to this expensive drug is echinacea tincture, which costs 90 rubles. Immunal can be given to children from 12 months, pregnant women are allowed to take it in consultation with the doctor. An obstacle to taking Immunal is autoimmune diseases.

• herbal preparation;
• recommended as a means of prevention;
• can be given to children.

• high price;
• there are contraindications.

The average price of the drug is 320 rubles.

Inexpensive drugs with good efficacy

To understand all the intricacies, it is recommended that you ask for the instructions for the medicine before buying and study it carefully. Often, the low price of a drug is offset by the need to take it in large quantities. On average, the cost of treatment with any antiviral agent costs from 400 to 600 rubles and lasts about a week.

The variety of assortment of antiviral drugs in pharmacies always baffles the buyer. I don't want to spend money on expensive, but useless medicines. In addition, there are many drugs with a similar effect, but at a lower price.

We offer you to get acquainted with cheap analogues of expensive antiviral agents:

Expensive branded product	Inexpensive analogue
Viferon, Grippferon	Interferon leukocyte
Orvirem	Remantadin, Rimantadin
Zovirax, Virolex	Acyclovir
Immunal	Echinacea syrup
Aflubin, Arbidol	Anaferon
Tamiflu	Oseltamivir, Nomides