Циклоферон

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Циклоферон

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Method of action: Interferon-Inducing

Treatment option: Influenza, Infection

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Циклоферон

What is Cycloferon?

Cycloferon (meglumine acridone acetate) is a synthetic low-molecular-weight inducer of interferon. It is classified as an immunomodulating agent, designed to stimulate the body's natural production of interferon proteins, specifically alpha and beta interferons.

Mechanism of Action

The primary function of the substance is to trigger signaling pathways in various immune cells, including macrophages, T-lymphocytes, and B-lymphocytes. By promoting the synthesis of endogenous interferon, it enhances the biological defense mechanisms that the body uses to respond to viral infections.

General Characteristics

As an interferon inducer, Cycloferon differs from direct antiviral drugs that target specific viral enzymes. Instead, it focuses on the host's immune response. Its activity is characterized by:

  • Broad-spectrum immune support: It is often studied for its role in supporting the immune system against a range of viral respiratory infections.
  • Tissue distribution: After administration, the substance is known to distribute into various lymphoid tissues and organs where immune activity is concentrated.
  • Elimination: The compound is typically excreted by the kidneys in an unchanged form within a relatively short timeframe.

Clinical Applications

In clinical contexts where it is utilized, Cycloferon is typically part of a comprehensive approach to managing viral diseases. It is most commonly associated with the following conditions:

  • Influenza and acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI).
  • Herpetic infections.
  • Secondary immunodeficiencies associated with chronic bacterial or fungal infections.

While it acts as an immunomodulator, it is frequently used as a supplementary component alongside other therapeutic measures rather than as a standalone treatment.

What side effects are possible with Циклоферон?

Possible side effects and safety information

The safety profile of Циклоферон (Meglumine Acridonacetate) outlines adverse reactions and specific safety constraints as documented in official regulatory sources. These effects are formally categorized by frequency and the body system affected.

Officially Documented Adverse Reactions

The adverse reactions most commonly listed in official documents include general disturbances such as transient low-grade fever, chills, and fatigue. Reactions affecting the Nervous System include headache, and those in the Gastrointestinal Disorders system may include nausea. For the injectable formulation, injection site pain or erythema (redness) is a common, localized event.

Reactions categorized as rare are typically those related to Immune System Disorders, such as allergic or hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., rash, itching, urticaria). The development of a severe hypersensitivity reaction represents a serious safety event officially documented as a potential risk.

System-Organ Class Common Adverse Reactions
General Disorders Fever, Chills, Fatigue
Nervous System Headache
Administration Site Pain, Erythema (Injection Form)

Safety Constraints and Special Populations

Official prescribing information establishes specific contraindications for the use of this interferon inducer. The medication is formally contraindicated in any individual with a known or suspected hypersensitivity to the active substance. Usage is also restricted in certain populations or disease states, including periods of pregnancy and breastfeeding. Furthermore, its use is prohibited in individuals with underlying conditions such as decompensated liver cirrhosis and specific diseases of the thyroid gland.

These restrictions and classifications reflect how government regulatory documents organize and communicate the medicine's safety profile, distinguishing between expected reactions and strict usage limitations.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The official prescribing information for Циклоферон (Meglumine Acridonacetate) indicates that specific data concerning the clinical presentation of an overdose are absent or not available in the regulatory submissions. Consequently, the official label does not define a unique symptom profile, nor does it list specific toxic dose levels or dedicated physiological outcomes solely resulting from acute overexposure.

Emergency Action and Management

Regulatory authorities mandate a clear course of action in the event of a suspected overexposure. Immediate consultation with a healthcare professional is required following any accidental or intentional ingestion that exceeds the established therapeutic dose. This action is mandated regardless of the patient's immediate clinical presentation.

Feature Official Regulatory Statement
Overdose Data Specific clinical and toxicological data are absent.
Antidote Availability No specific antidote is known for this medication.
Required Management Treatment must consist of symptomatic and supportive measures.

The overall overdose profile is therefore structured around the regulatory requirement for urgent medical attention and the use of general supportive care, rather than the identification of a specific toxic syndrome defined by the interferon inducer itself, as specific data are not documented in the official regulatory source.

Therapeutic Uses of Циклоферон

What Циклоферон Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

This therapeutic agent is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes, including influenza and viral respiratory infections. It is considered relevant for situations involving recurrent viral manifestations, such as chronic viral hepatitis and certain herpes infections.

Symptomatic Relief and Condition Management

The therapy is relevant in contexts marked by increased discomfort or tension. It is used for managing symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, such as high fever and symptoms related to physical discomfort in acute cases. In long-term conditions like chronic viral hepatitis and recurrent herpes infections, the primary benefit is to support patients during difficult episodes and may help with managing symptoms that become more disruptive during flare-ups. The medication is also utilized as part of complex treatment protocols for severe systemic diseases, including pulmonary tuberculosis and specific neuroinfections.

Quick Fact: Relief for Acute Distress
This medication provides support that helps ease the overall symptom burden during periods of heightened systemic symptoms, and may assist with maintaining functional stability when symptoms are more noticeable.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Official Regulatory Eligibility and Contraindications

The official regulatory guidance for Циклоферон establishes clear parameters for population eligibility, defined primarily by absolute prohibitions and age restrictions.

Classification Eligibility Status (According to Official Labeling)
Absolute Contraindications Hypersensitivity to Meglumine Acridonacetate or other components; Decompensated liver cirrhosis; Pregnancy; Lactation/Breastfeeding (systemic forms).
Age-Group Exclusion The tablet form is contraindicated for children under 4 years of age.
Conditional Restriction Requires caution for patients with acute diseases of the thyroid gland or exacerbations of acute gastrointestinal diseases.

Use is allowed for adults and for children starting from 4 years of age (for the tablet form). The profile includes these specific conditional limitations, requiring caution for use in certain comorbidity contexts. The eligibility structure is rigidly defined by absolute regulatory prohibitions based on hypersensitivity, severe organ dysfunction, and reproductive status.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Interaction Scope

The official regulatory profile for Циклоферон (Meglumine Acridonacetate) is defined by documented pharmacodynamic interactions and a high degree of general compatibility. Regulatory information specifically addresses co-administration with three categories of agents: Interferons, Nucleoside Analogues, and Chemotherapy Agents. The interaction statements are consistently grouped by medicinal product class rather than individual drug names.

Interaction Classifications (High-Level)

Classification Type Officially Documented Status
Pharmacokinetic (CYP, Transporter) None explicitly documented
Timing-based restrictions None documented (no mandatory separation rules)
Interaction-related restrictions None documented (no formal interaction-based contraindications)

Resulting Interaction Structure

The documented interaction statements confirm that the co-administration of this agent enhances the action of both Interferons and Nucleoside Analogues. A key documented outcome is the formal statement that co-administration also reduces the side effects associated with both chemotherapy and interferon therapy. The regulatory documentation explicitly states the product is compatible with all medicinal products used in the treatment of the specified diseases.

Connection to the overall interaction profile:

This framework defines the product's interaction structure around pharmacodynamic complementarity with existing therapies, formally documenting both reinforcement of action and a reduction in co-administered drug toxicity. The profile is characterized by low-risk co-administration and the absence of documented metabolic or transporter-based restrictive warnings.

Mechanism of Action

The drug’s precursor molecule acts as an agonist to the STING protein, a sensor within the innate immune system. This key molecular interaction initiates the TBK1/IRF3 cascade, driving the cell to synthesize and secrete elevated levels of Type I (alpha/beta) and Type II (gamma) Interferons. The newly induced Interferons then bind to receptors on surrounding cells, activating the JAK-STAT signaling cascade. This downstream effect results in the widespread expression of Interferon-Stimulated Genes (ISGs), thereby establishing a physiological state characterized by the expression of factors that interfere with viral replication mechanisms. Beyond inducing the antiviral state, the mechanism induces the activation of the intrinsic apoptosis pathway in infected cells. This is complemented by immunomodulatory effects, notably influencing the cytokine balance by suppressing certain anti-inflammatory signals (e.g., IL-10). This action contributes to the systemic modulation of the host's innate defense mechanisms.

Dosage and Administration Information

The administration of Циклоферон is characterized by specific, non-continuous protocols across its various forms. The medication is intended for oral use as a 150 mg film-coated tablet, parenteral use via a 125 mg/mL solution for intravenous or intramuscular injection, and topical application via a liniment formulation.

Dosing adheres to a cyclic, once-daily schedule that requires non-consecutive administration days. For adult oral use, the standard single dose ranges from 450 to 600 mg (3 to 4 tablets). This regimen specifies intervals, such as taking the dose on Days 1, 2, 4, 6, and 8, followed by a possible extension for chronic conditions.

For proper oral intake, the tablets must be swallowed whole, unchewed, with water, and strictly taken 30 minutes before a meal. It is specified that pediatric patients must be at least four years old to begin treatment, with dosing based on either age or body weight.

Upon completion of a full course, a mandatory treatment-free interval of 2 to 3 weeks must be observed before a repeat course can be considered. If a scheduled dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible, and the original cyclic schedule should be resumed without doubling the next administration. This precise scheduling approach structures the entire use protocol.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Recent Clinical Evidence

The active substance in Cycloferon (meglumine acridone acetate) is classified as an interferon inducer. Research has explored its potential role in managing several viral and chronic inflammatory conditions.


Clinical Trial Focus

Studies investigating the drug typically focus on its ability to stimulate the production of endogenous interferons—proteins central to the body's innate immune response against viral pathogens. This immunomodulatory activity is the primary subject of clinical investigation.

Research has explored whether the drug may be associated with an improved quality of life in patients with chronic inflammation, though findings are varied. Furthermore, studies have investigated the drug's effect on acute symptoms, with some findings suggesting a reduction in symptom severity in cases of influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections.


Studied Indications and Safety

Clinical trials have examined the drug's application in various viral infections, including herpes and viral hepatitis (A, B, C, D), and have also compared its outcomes to older therapies. Recent clinical trials are ongoing to evaluate its efficacy and safety as post-exposure prophylaxis for acute respiratory viral infections and influenza in adults aged 18 to 65.

Focus Area Primary Research Objective
Viral Infections Evaluating its use in combination therapy for conditions like herpes and viral hepatitis.
Comparative Studies Comparing outcomes against existing standard treatments to assess differences in clinical markers.

Studies also evaluate the drug’s safety profile, particularly in individuals with pre-existing conditions such as liver diseases or thyroid disorders. Research continues to explore optimal dosing parameters and long-term outcomes in different patient populations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Acetaminophen (FAQ)

Q: Is Acetaminophen the same as Tylenol?

Yes, Acetaminophen is the active drug ingredient, and Tylenol is one of the most common brand names under which it is sold. Acetaminophen can be found in various over-the-counter and prescription products, often combined with other ingredients. Reviewing the label for the active ingredient is an important safety measure, particularly when using multiple products, to help prevent accidental overdose.


Q: Can I take Acetaminophen if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Acetaminophen is often discussed with healthcare providers as a potential option for managing pain and fever during pregnancy and breastfeeding, though consulting a professional before use is always recommended. A healthcare provider can offer guidance based on an individual's specific health circumstances and the product being considered. It is important to adhere strictly to the recommended dosage, as excessive amounts carry potential risks.


Q: How quickly does Acetaminophen start to work?

Relief from pain or fever typically begins within about 30 minutes to an hour after an oral dose is taken. This can vary based on the specific product formulation (e.g., liquid, tablet, extended-release) and individual factors. If the desired effect is not achieved within the typical time frame, consulting a healthcare provider for further direction is advisable instead of adjusting the dose.


Q: Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Acetaminophen?

The combination of alcohol and acetaminophen is a key safety consideration, as it is associated with an increased potential risk for serious liver damage. This risk is noted to be elevated for individuals who consume three or more alcoholic drinks every day. Many healthcare professionals recommend avoiding alcohol while using products that contain acetaminophen. Always review the product label warnings regarding alcohol consumption.


Q: What is the maximum daily dose of Acetaminophen for an adult?

Official product labeling specifies a maximum daily dosage that must be followed. Some healthcare professionals may recommend a lower limit for additional safety, particularly with long-term use. It is important that this maximum dose accounts for all sources of acetaminophen being used (for example, combined cold medicines or prescription pain relievers). Dosage instructions provided on the product label should not be exceeded without specific guidance from a healthcare professional.

How should Циклоферон be stored and disposed of?

The storage and disposal of Циклоферон (Meglumine Acridonacetate) must adhere to conditions specified in its official regulatory labeling to maintain stability.

Storage Requirements

  • Temperature: Store at a temperature not exceeding 25°C. The product is generally considered stable at standard room temperature.
  • Environment: The medicine must be kept in a dry place and protected from light (stored in a dark place).
  • Handling Restriction: Do not freeze the product, as this can compromise the formulation. The exception is the injection solution, which may permit freezing if clarity is retained upon thawing.
  • Container: Keep the medicine in its original container or package to ensure necessary protection until use.
  • Child Safety: Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

  • Discarding: Do not use the medicine after the labeled expiration date.
  • Regulatory Rule: Dispose of any unused medicine and waste material in accordance with local legal requirements for pharmaceutical waste, and do not dispose of it via household trash or wastewater.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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