OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of combined administration of interferon alfa-2b in combination with antioxidants, Viferon as rectal suppositories 3.000.000 IU and gel for topical use 36.000 IU/g in pregnant patients with new coronavirus infection (NCI) COVID-19.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study included 140 pregnant women with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 NCI. Pregnant women were divided into two groups of 70 subjects each: Group 1 received Viferon and complex standard of care; Group 2 received standard of care only. The efficacy of therapy was evaluated by a comparative analysis of the course of disease symptoms, laboratory parameters, and birth outcomes.

RESULTS

The addition of interferon alfa-2b with an antioxidant complex into the regimen of complex standard of care in pregnant women with NCI COVID-19 resulted in quicker relief of the main disease symptoms and development of a persistent antiviral immune response. Significant decrease in the level of proinflammatory cytokine IL-6 due to the complex therapy with Viferon (interferon alfa-2b with antioxidants) is a favorable prognostic index for recovery after the disease. Based on the analysis of birth outcomes depending on the therapy, the efficacy and safety of complex therapy with Viferon in Group 1 pregnant women was confirmed. Most of the births occurred at 38—40 weeks of gestation and no perinatal losses were recorded. In group 2 pregnant women receiving only standard of care, two cases of antenatal fetal death were recorded.

CONCLUSION

The addition of interferon alpha-2b with antioxidant, Viferon in the form of rectal suppositories and gel for topical use for COVID-19 treatment in pregnant women results in a quicker relief of symptoms, development of a sustained immune response and birth of infants with no abnormalities.