Non-specific immune stimulation in respiratory tract infections. Separating the wheat from the chaff

Abstract

Parents of children suffering from recurrent respiratory infections can be persuaded by advertisements to pressure their family physicians and pediatricians for "immune-stimulating enhancements". However, the evidence base behind these immune stimulants is usually lacking. Often there is no peer-reviewed studies available that support claims made by "immune-booster" supplements. In this review, we critically analyze most of the marketed immuno-active drugs (including vitamin preparations, dietary supplements, homeopathic remedies, Ecchinacea, bacterial lysates, and probiotics) and identify the necessity to exclude an immunodeficiency in every child suffering from recurrent respiratory tract infections.

Keywords: Bacterial lysates; Ecchinacea; Educational aims; Food supplements; Future research directions; Herbal and homeopathic products; Immunostimulation; Probiotics; Respiratory tract infection; Vitamin C; Vitamin D; Zinc.