Alferon LDO

Alferon Low Dose Oral (LDO) is an experimental alpha interferon based drug developed by HEMISPHERx Biopharma, Inc, based on Hemispherx's Alferon N IV drug. It is hoped that it will help fight acute viral infections, such as avian flu and HIV. It is currently recruiting for Phase II human trials in America and Hong Kong.

Mechanism of action
It is hoped that Alferon LDO will resuscitate the broad-spectrum antiviral and immunostimulatory genes that are shut down by acute viral infections. It is administered orally.

Possible benefits
If Alferon LDO is successful, it could provide an affordable, easy to use drug with particular benefits in the Third World, where viral infections are rife and access to medical infrastructure limited.