Immunofan for dogs
Immunofan is a medicinal product used as an immunomodulator for dogs. Initially developed by a Russian company for humans, the drug quickly found its way into veterinary medicine.
Content
Composition and action
For animals, Immunofan is available as an injectable solution. The clear, colorless, odorless liquid is packaged in 1 ml ampoules. A cardboard package typically contains instructions for use and five ampoules. Other forms of the medication (spray and suppositories) are not used for treating dogs.
The drug's main component is a synthetic hexapeptide. It is synthesized from a natural immune peptide hormone and is therefore well tolerated.
Immunofan acts in three main directions:
- improves immunity, including at the cellular level;
- improves metabolic processes;
- promotes better absorption of medications, which is especially important when used in combination therapy.
The medication regulates the immune system. It activates the body's defenses when needed, but can also moderate the body's inappropriate reactions to various stimuli. It also has the following effects:
- anti-inflammatory;
- antitumor;
- detoxification;
- hepatoprotective.
The drug protects the body from viruses, bacteria, and fungi. In cases of intoxication, radionuclide poisoning, or chemical exposure, the medication helps reduce the negative effects of harmful substances and eliminate them from the body.
When administered during vaccination, it increases the duration of antibodies. It also has a beneficial effect on the reproductive system, helping bitches recover more quickly after giving birth, and increasing the survival rate of puppies. The drug helps prevent unpleasant consequences during stressful situations and improves the chances of recovery from cancer and other serious illnesses.
Immunofan is classified as a low-hazard drug because it does not have an allergic, mutagenic or toxic effect.
What is the price
A pack of 5 ampoules costs 350-450 rubles. Ampoules are available individually at many pharmacies. The solution is available not only at veterinary pharmacies and large pet stores, but also at regular pharmacies, as the medication is also used for humans, although the price will be slightly higher. If you prefer to shop online, choose trusted online retailers.
Indications for use
According to the instructions for use, Immunofan is prescribed for dogs in the following cases:
- in case of immunodeficiency;
- during the plague;
- with enteritis;
- in infectious hepatitis;
- for intestinal pathologies caused by pathogenic bacteria;
- for respiratory viral diseases;
- for other diseases of viral or bacteriological nature.
It is used in oncology, especially after radiation or chemotherapy, and in combination with other medications. The medication is also used in the following cases:
- during vaccination;
- under stress (moving, visiting an exhibition, going to the veterinarian, etc.);
- to prevent gynecological diseases and obtain healthy offspring.
Although the medicine is considered safe, it should not be used without consulting a doctor.
Instructions for use
When treating infectious diseases and cancer, the drug is used in combination with antibiotics, symptomatic medications, and other medications. The instructions state that Immunofan is administered to dogs intramuscularly or subcutaneously. The single dose for small and large pets is the same: 1 ml.
During treatment, injections are given once daily, every other day. The number of injections depends on the condition:
- for infectious rhinotracheitis, adenovirus infection, parainfluenza and other respiratory infections - 3-4 times;
- for gastrointestinal infections, including viral enteritis - 2-3 times;
- during the plague of carnivores – 5-6 times;
- for intrauterine infections – 5 times;
- in case of hypotrophy of puppies – 3 times;
- to improve reproductive function – 3 times.
If the medication is used to prevent gynecological conditions, injections are given every 3-4 months. Up to 4 injections are given over the course of a year. To avoid the unpleasant consequences of stress, the medication is administered 12-18 hours before an event that could trigger it. This could include:
- animal transportation;
- visiting a veterinary clinic;
- carrying out hygienic or cosmetic procedures (cutting claws, trimming hair);
- arrival of guests;
- owner's departure;
- participation in an exhibition or competition.
If the medication is used to boost immunity during vaccination, it is mixed with the vaccine in the same syringe. If the vaccine is administered as a dry powder, the solution can be used to dilute it.
Contraindications and side effects
The instructions do not contain any contraindications. It can be used in dogs of any age and breed. If you plan to use Immunofan in pregnant or nursing female dogs or puppies, consult a veterinarian. It is possible that the medication may cause an allergic reaction, but there is no information about this in the instructions. It will be helpful to closely monitor your pet after the first injection.
Caution! Do not use Immunofan with other bio- and immunostimulants.
When used according to the recommended dosage and treatment regimen, the medication is well tolerated by animals and causes no side effects. Despite its safety, experienced specialists recommend against using it without a doctor's prescription or very frequently. This is because the medication stimulates the immune system, but frequent use can have the opposite effect. The animal's natural immunity will be weakened and unable to cope with infections and other irritants without "outside" help—that is, the medication.
Clinical trials
Immunofan has gained widespread use in veterinary medicine due to its broad spectrum of action and high efficacy, confirmed by clinical trials. These trials involved 138 dogs of various breeds. A control group of 70 animals was also created for comparison.
The drug was administered to animals in the experimental group during their first vaccination against distemper, botulism, hepatitis, and enteritis. Observations revealed seven cases of distemper and four cases of enteritis in the control group, although all animals survived. Furthermore, the number of dead puppies in the experimental group decreased by 3.4%, and 6.8% more females successfully whelped.
Trials were also conducted in treating dogs for distemper and other dangerous diseases. While traditional treatment yielded only a 50% survival rate, using Immunofan saved 19 out of 20 sick pets. The drug's effectiveness was also confirmed in vaccinating against parvovirus enteritis. Of the 150 vaccinated puppies, not a single one developed the dangerous disease during the observation period.
How to store
The medication is suitable for use for 24 months from the manufacturing date, subject to certain conditions. Store the medication in a dry place, protected from UV rays, at a temperature of 2 to 8°C. Refrigeration is a good storage option.
Do not use this medication if its expiration date has expired. Discontinue use if the solution becomes cloudy, contains sediment, or contains foreign matter. Discard the medication container with your regular household waste.
Owner reviews
Olga, the owner of several dogs:
"I always have Immunofan in my veterinary medicine cabinet. I mainly use it as a preventative measure after vaccinations, when we go to shows or to the country, and after birth. The medication once saved my dog from distemper. I've never seen any side effects, even though I've used it on both old and young dogs (I have four). It's an excellent product."
Konstantin, the boxer's owner:
"My dog developed a fungal infection on his paws after contracting heartworm disease. Ointments and other topical treatments were ineffective, and the fungus continued to grow. The vet recommended a course of immunomodulator injections to strengthen his immune system. After just the first injection, the dog felt significantly better. I think this is an excellent treatment, and it's inexpensive, very affordable."
Veterinarian Reviews
Victor, a veterinarian with 12 years of experience:
"Imunofan is an excellent medication that has saved many dogs from distemper, enteritis, and other dangerous diseases. At our clinic, it is regularly used to treat infectious diseases. I often recommend that dog owners administer the medication during vaccinations. Experience shows that such animals have better immunity."
Polina, a veterinarian with 9 years of experience:
"This medication is safe for animals and provides good support for the body during viral illnesses. However, I wouldn't recommend using it on a regular basis, as it is addictive. Furthermore, unnecessary use of the medication can stimulate the development of an autoimmune disease, so be sure to consult a veterinarian before use."
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2 comments
Alexey
There have been cases described, and in my practice, where after the use of Immunofan in the treatment of canine distemper in dogs with intestinal or pulmonary forms, the disease developed into a nervous form with a detailed outcome.
Larisa
My dog developed a papilloma on the side of her mouth that started growing right before my eyes. It was at least 6 mm in diameter when I discovered it. It was a cauliflower-white tumor. After the first injection (subcutaneously in the withers), it changed from white and shaggy to pink and slightly porous. After the third injection, it changed to the color of her gums and shrank significantly. Maybe someone with a similar problem really does have an effect. This is much better than removal under anesthesia with an unknown outcome. I gave her injections every other day. She's a 10-month-old Border Collie puppy.
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