Antiviral treatment for influenza
1Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong Faculty of Medicine, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong.
Summary
Timely antiviral treatment for seasonal influenza, including neuraminidase inhibitors and polymerase inhibitors, significantly reduces illness duration and complications. Early administration is crucial for managing influenza effectively, especially in high-risk individuals.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Seasonal influenza is a major global health concern causing significant morbidity and mortality.
- Antiviral medications are key in managing influenza, with two main classes: neuraminidase inhibitors (NAIs) and polymerase inhibitors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the efficacy and administration of current antiviral drugs for seasonal influenza.
- To highlight the importance of early treatment and compare different antiviral classes.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on neuraminidase inhibitors (oseltamivir, zanamivir, peramivir, laninamivir) and polymerase inhibitors (baloxavir).
- Analysis of clinical outcomes, efficacy, side effects, and resistance patterns associated with these antivirals.
Main Results:
- Early antiviral administration (within 48 hours) shortens illness duration and reduces complications, particularly in high-risk groups.
- Oseltamivir is widely studied, showing benefits but common gastrointestinal side effects. Baloxavir demonstrates superior viral load reduction.
- Different antivirals have specific advantages (e.g., zanamivir against influenza B, IV peramivir) and limitations (e.g., inhaled zanamivir in severe disease).
Conclusions:
- Timely antiviral therapy is critical for reducing the global burden of seasonal influenza.
- The choice of antiviral depends on the specific influenza strain, patient factors, and administration route.
- Ongoing research into new antivirals and combination therapies may further improve influenza management.
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