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Recent developments in herpesvirus therapy
1Rega Institute for Medical Research, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium. lieve.naesens@rega.kuleuven.ac.be
Herpes : the Journal of the IHMF
|February 28, 2002
Summary
New antiherpes drugs offer improved treatments for herpes simplex virus (HSV), varicella zoster virus (VZV), and cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections. Ongoing research aims to address drug resistance and safety concerns for broader clinical application.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Pharmacology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Aciclovir and ganciclovir are established treatments for herpes simplex virus (HSV), varicella zoster virus (VZV), and cytomegalovirus (CMV).
- Recent years have seen the introduction of new antiherpes drugs, expanding therapeutic options for these viral infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current landscape of antiherpes drug treatments.
- To highlight the need for novel agents addressing emerging challenges in herpesvirus management.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of approved and investigational antiherpes agents.
- Analysis of clinical development status and safety profiles of various drugs.
Main Results:
- Several new drugs, including penciclovir, valaciclovir, famciclovir, cidofovir, fomivirsen, and foscarnet, have been approved.
- Brivudin and benzimidavir are under clinical development, while others have faced suspension due to safety issues.
Conclusions:
- Despite advancements, new antiherpes agents are crucial to combat drug resistance.
- Addressing safety concerns in specific populations (children, pregnant women) and in transplantation settings is essential for future antiherpes therapies.