Respiratory Viral Infections in Patients with Cardiovascular Diseases: the Role of Interferon Preparations

Acute respiratory infections significantly contribute to the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases and their complications. The innate immune system, particularly interferons (IFN), serves as the first line of defense against viral pathogens. A deficiency of type I IFN, commonly observed in elderly patients with cardiovascular comorbidities, predisposes to a more severe course of viral infections. Growing vaccine hesitancy has further limited preventive strategies. In this context, antiviral drugs present a valuable alternative, offering advantages such as applicability in broad population groups, including immunocompromised individuals, and expanding therapeutic and preventive options for respiratory viral infections, including COVID-19. However, certain antiviral agents may induce oxidative stress, thereby aggravating its already elevated level during viral infections. To mitigate this effect, combining antiviral therapy with antioxidants appears rational. Recombinant IFN alpha-2b in combination with ascorbic acid and tocopherol provides such a therapeutic opportunity, enhancing both antiviral efficacy and oxidative stress control in patients with cardiovascular diseases at risk of severe respiratory viral infections.