Pidotimod may prevent recurrent respiratory infections in children

A Licari1, M De Amici, S Nigrisoli

  • 1Immuno‑Pneumo‑Allergy Unit Department of Pediatrics, University of Pavia, Fondazione IRCCS San Matteo, Pavia, Italy - gl.marseglia@smatteo.pv.it.

Minerva Pediatrica
|September 26, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Pidotimod effectively prevents recurrent respiratory infections (RRI) in children. This immunostimulant reduces symptoms, medication use, and doctor visits, while improving school attendance.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Immunology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Recurrent respiratory infections (RRI) pose significant pharmaco-economic and familial burdens.
  • Pidotimod, a synthetic immunostimulant, is explored for its potential in managing RRI.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of pidotimod in preventing RRI in pediatric patients.
  • To assess the impact of pidotimod on symptom reduction, medication use, and healthcare utilization.

Main Methods:

  • A randomized study involving 100 children diagnosed with RRI.
  • Children received either pidotimod (400 mg/day) or no treatment for two months.
  • Outcomes measured included respiratory symptoms, medication use, school attendance, and pediatric visits.

Main Results:

  • Pidotimod significantly reduced upper and lower airway symptoms.
  • Treatment led to decreased medication use and fewer pediatric visits for RRI.
  • School attendance rates improved in the pidotimod group.

Conclusions:

  • Pidotimod demonstrates potential as a preventative measure for RRI in children.
  • The findings support pidotimod's role in reducing the incidence and impact of RRI.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Antiasthma Drugs: Leukotriene Modifiers01:19

Antiasthma Drugs: Leukotriene Modifiers

Leukotriene modifiers, or cysteinyl leukotriene receptor antagonists, are medications used to manage chronic asthma. These agents target specific inflammatory mediators produced during arachidonic acid metabolism, an essential process in generating inflammation in the body.
Leukotriene modifiers work through two distinct mechanisms:
2.2K
Pneumonia V: Nursing management and Prevention01:30

Pneumonia V: Nursing management and Prevention

Nursing management of pneumonia involves promoting airway patency, facilitating rest and conserving energy, encouraging fluid intake, maintaining nutrition, and educating patients.
The nurse must practice strict medical asepsis and adhere to infection control guidelines to minimize healthcare-associated infections.
Enhance airway patency
Position the patient correctly to facilitate drainage of the affected lung segments. Manual or mechanical percussion and vibration can also be employed....
4.1K
Drugs Used in Lower Respiratory Disorders: Overview01:17

Drugs Used in Lower Respiratory Disorders: Overview

Lower respiratory tract disorders present challenges that often require skilled and nuanced approaches for effective management. Common ailments, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), have prompted the development of intricate treatment strategies involving bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory drugs, each tailored to ease breathing and revitalize the lungs.
Bronchodilators, the first step of respiration enhancement, come in various forms, each with its own mechanism...
1.6K
Antiasthma Drugs: Mast Cell Stabilizers and Anti-IgE Drugs01:25

Antiasthma Drugs: Mast Cell Stabilizers and Anti-IgE Drugs

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition for which new therapeutic avenues, including anti-inflammatory drugs like mast cell stabilizers and anti-IgE treatments, continue to be developed.
Mast cell stabilizers, such as cromolyn (also known as sodium cromoglycate) and nedocromil (Tilade), are effective drugs in asthma management. These stabilizers hinder histamine release by skillfully obstructing the activation of mast cells and other cellular entities. Notably, they navigate this task without...
2.3K
Antiasthma Drugs: Inhaled Corticosteroids and Glucocorticoids01:25

Antiasthma Drugs: Inhaled Corticosteroids and Glucocorticoids

Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are anti-inflammatory drugs used primarily in treating persistent asthma and providing long-term maintenance. They target the bronchial mucosa, the lining of the airways, to control inflammation, a critical factor in asthma progression and exacerbation.
ICS work through a multifaceted mechanism of action. They suppress the inflammatory response caused by the proliferation of TH cells. They also reduce the transcription of the IL-2 gene, which is involved in the...
2.0K
Asthma-IV: Nursing Management01:30

Asthma-IV: Nursing Management

The nursing management of asthma is a comprehensive approach that relies heavily on the expertise and dedication of healthcare professionals. It involves thorough assessment, accurate diagnosis, strategic planning, effective implementation, and diligent evaluation. By meticulously following this step-by-step process, healthcare professionals play a crucial role in providing the best possible care and treatment for patients with asthma, enhancing their overall health and well-being.
First, in...
4.0K