Evaluation of α-Interferon Applied in COVID-19 Therapy Regimen

OBJECTIVE: To use IFNα injection as inhalant for there is no proper dosage form for aerosol inhalation and evaluate the feasibility of IFN-α off-label use. METHODS: The clinical studies in SARS and MERS were reviewed to discuss the efficacy and safety of IFN-α application in COVID-19. Meanwhile, the features of aerosol inhalation, characteristics of IFN-α and related clinical researches were analyzed to argue the possibility of IFN-α aerosol inhalation. RESULTS: IFN-α seems to be effective in relieving early symptoms but likely invalid in reducing mortality of severe patients, however, the exact therapeutic effect calls for further clinical tests. Proper atomization of IFN-α injection won't reduce biological activity of the protein, but absorption and utilization of IFN-α in lung may be unsatisfactory for the lack of sorbefacient. More than that, ingredients in IFN-α injection may increase risk of adverse reaction. CONCLUSION: The aerosol inhalation of IFN-α injection should be fully evaluated on the side of patients. If there is a lack of proper atomization device or operation staff, subcutaneous injection of IFN-α may be a tentative administration.