[A new classification of prophylactic antiradiation agents]

A new classification has been proposed for prophylactic antiradiation drugs, which are divided into three groups: radioprotectors, stimulators of radioresistance and the means of protection from internal irradiation. Depending on organs (systems) for the protection of which they are designed, radioprotectors in their turn are subdivided into myelo-, entero- and cerebroprotectors; stimulators of radioresistance (depending on the optimal regimens of their use to develop a higher resistance of the organism) are subdivided into drugs that are effective in single and repeated (course) use; the means of protection from internal irradiation are subdivided into the drugs that prevent incorporation of radioiodine by the thyroid gland, and into the drugs preventing absorption of radionuclides in the digestive tract. The main features that distinguish radioprotectors from stimulators of radioresistance are presented. The former are characterized by such properties as exhibiting the effect exquisitely when prophylactically administered in doses close to those of maximal tolerance, greatest effect against shortterm (pulse) irradiation, rapid development and short duration of the radioprotective action period, reduction in the effect in repeated use, etc. Stimulators of radioresistance rank below radioprotectors in their effect against short-term irradiation, however, unlike the latter, they exhibit their protective effect against a long-term (low dose rate) exposure as well under the conditions of both prophylactic and therapeutic use; their radioprotective action is more prolonged, they are distinguished for their low toxicity and lower the risk of delayed sequelae of irradiation, etc. Examples of the most typical members of each group of prophylactic antiradiation drugs are cited, data are presented which characterize their radioprotective activity, the role and place in the system of antiradiation protection of troops and population.