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[Antiviral drugs--1988]
1Division des maladies infectieuses, Hôpital cantonal universitaire, Genève.
Schweizerische Medizinische Wochenschrift
|December 10, 1988
Summary
Acyclovir and zidovudine are key antiviral drugs. Acyclovir treats herpes viruses by disrupting DNA replication, while zidovudine targets HIV, though its long-term effectiveness is limited.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Pharmacology
Context:
- Acyclovir (Zovirax) and zidovudine (Retrovir) are primary antiviral medications.
- These drugs interfere with viral DNA synthesis to inhibit replication.
Purpose:
- To review the mechanisms of action and clinical applications of acyclovir and zidovudine.
- To highlight their efficacy and limitations in treating herpes virus and HIV infections.
Summary:
- Acyclovir is effective against herpes simplex virus infections, particularly in immunosuppressed patients, shortening herpes zoster duration but not preventing post-herpetic neuralgia.
- Zidovudine reduces early mortality in AIDS patients with pneumocystis pneumonia but offers limited long-term survival benefits, with variable efficacy and potential myelotoxicity.
Impact:
- Acyclovir provides significant benefits for herpes virus infections, especially in vulnerable populations.
- Zidovudine offers a survival advantage in early-stage AIDS but requires careful monitoring due to diminishing effectiveness and side effects.