Acute respiratory viral infection
Not recommended
For the treatment of acute viral respiratory infection, Kagocel is not mentioned in international recommendations. Etiotropic therapy is not required for URI; supportive care is indicated.
Kagocel
Other antivirals (local classification)
ATC code: J05AX-KAGOCEL (Kagocel (local code))
Mechanism of action
The manufacturer claims stimulation of late interferon synthesis (IFN-α and IFN-β). The active component is a synthetic polymer based on gossypol (a cottonseed derivative). Kagocel is not mentioned as a molecule in international sources. No independent international clinical trials of efficacy have been published.
Indications
Herpes simplex
Not recommended
Kagocel for herpes infection is not mentioned in international sources. Evidence-based therapy for herpes simplex consists of nucleoside analogues (aciclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir).
Influenza
Not recommended
Kagocel for the treatment or prevention of influenza is not mentioned in international guidelines (WHO, IDSA, NICE). Proven antiviral options are oseltamivir, zanamivir, and baloxavir, with annual influenza vaccination as the principal prevention method.
Practical notes
Russian practice note
Kagocel is produced exclusively in Russia under a single brand name and is not registered internationally. Clinical use is limited to the Russian Federation and CIS countries, included in Ministry of Health protocols, creating divergence from international practice and the absence of an independent evidence base.
Safety
Contraindications
- Age under 3 years
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding
- Lactase deficiency, galactose intolerance, glucose-galactose malabsorption
- Hypersensitivity
Serious adverse effects
- Independent data on serious adverse events are unavailable
Common adverse effects
- Per manufacturer label — allergic reactions (frequency not specified in available sources)
Pregnancy
Contraindicated in pregnancy per manufacturer label.