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Antiviral therapy: current options and challenges
1Department of Medicine, University Hospital, Basel. pierre.reusser@jura.ch
Schweizerische Medizinische Wochenschrift
|April 26, 2000
Summary
Antiviral drugs effectively manage viral infections like herpes and hepatitis. Newer oral medications offer improved convenience, but drug resistance in herpes viruses requires further research into alternative treatments.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Pharmacology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Viral infections pose significant global health challenges.
- Antiviral drug development and diagnostics have advanced treatment strategies.
- Management of herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus, cytomegalovirus, influenza, and hepatitis B and C are key areas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current drug treatment options for viral infections (excluding HIV).
- To discuss advances in antiviral drug development and diagnostics.
- To highlight emerging challenges like antiviral resistance.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current antiviral therapies and diagnostic methods.
- Analysis of clinical trial data for newer antiviral agents.
- Discussion of drug resistance mechanisms and potential solutions.
Main Results:
- Newer oral antivirals (valaciclovir, famciclovir) offer improved bioavailability and convenience.
- Oral lamivudine is an alternative for chronic hepatitis B.
- Combination therapy (ribavirin with interferon-alpha) is superior for chronic hepatitis C.
- Neuraminidase inhibitors (zanamivir, oseltamivir) are effective against influenza A and B.
- Emerging herpes virus resistance to antivirals is a concern.
Conclusions:
- Efficient management strategies exist for several viral infections.
- Oral antiviral agents enhance patient compliance and reduce the need for intravenous therapy.
- Antiviral drug resistance necessitates the development of alternative treatments and further research.