Comparison of intramuscular recombinant alpha interferon (rIFN-2A) with topical acyclovir for the treatment of first-episode herpes genitalis and prevention of recurrences
Year: 1989
Type: article
Abstract: Intramuscular recombinant alpha interferon (rIFN-2A; 9 million IU given for 5 days during a 9-day treatment period) was compared with topical acyclovir in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial for the treatment of first-episode genital herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection and for subsequent alteration of the frequency of recurrences. rIFN-2A (within 96 h of onset of the first episode) was not superior to topical acyclovir in a well-matched group of 105 patients. The early use of rIFN-2A also did not alter the frequency or severity of genital HSV recurrences within either the first or second 6 months following therapy. Separate analyses by HSV type and by type of infection (primary versus nonprimary) did not change this conclusion. Furthermore, there was significant toxicity associated with rIFN-2A therapy. rIFN-2A is not indicated for the treatment of genital HSV infections.
DOI: 10.1128/aac.33.5.649
Authors: M J Levin, F N Judson, L Eron, Y J Bryson, L Corey, M Murray, R R Scheer
Language: English
Subfield: Epidemiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2096386111