Nasalferon

Nasalferon is a recombinant human interferon alpha-2b nasal formulation developed by the Cuban Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB) for the prophylaxis of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Administered intranasally as nasal drops, it induces a local antiviral state in the nasal mucosa, which serves as the primary entry point and first line of defense against respiratory viruses. The drug works by activating the interferon signaling pathway through binding to the Type I interferon receptor (IFNAR), leading to the expression of antiviral biomarkers such as 2',5'-oligoadenylate synthetase 1 (OAS1) and stimulating innate immune responses. Clinical studies in high-risk populations, including healthcare workers and travelers, have demonstrated its effectiveness in significantly reducing COVID-19 infection rates.