Efficacy and safety of interferon α-2b spray for herpangina in children: A randomized, controlled trial

Objectives: The treatment of acute herpangina is inconsistent. We aim to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of interferon alpha-2b spray versus Ribavirin for this disease. Methods: A randomized, controlled trial was conducted in eight hospitals in China between 2016 and 2018. 668 patients (1-7 years old) were randomized into an experimental group (treated with Interferon alpha-2b spray) or control group (received Ribavirin Aerosol). Body temperature returning to normal within 72 h and remaining so for 24 h was the primary outcome; release of oral herpes and adverse events were the secondary outcomes. Results: (1) The average age of onset was 2.5 years old. (2) After 72 h treatment, body temperature of 98.5% patients in experimental group and 94.3% in control group returned to normal and remained so for 24 h (P = 0.004). The differences were greater at 48 h treatment (95.2% vs. 85.9%, P < 0.001) and at 24 h (77.5% vs. 66.5%, P = 0.001). (3) The rate of improved oral herpes in the experimental group was higher than that in control group (46.7% vs.37.1%, P = 0.011). No adverse reaction occurred. Conclusions: Local application of recombinant interferon alpha-2b spray showed better efficacy for acute herpangina in children. It was safe for use. (C) 2021 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of International Society for Infectious Diseases.

Automated summary

The study found that interferon alpha-2b spray showed better efficacy in treating acute herpangina in children compared to Ribavirin. Additionally, it was deemed safe for use with no adverse reactions reported.