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Drugs for viral infections

Article Abstract:

A review of the drugs currently available to prevent and treat several common viral infections is provided. These infections include cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus, human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1), influenza A virus, papillomavirus, respiratory syncytial virus, and varicella-zoster virus. Acyclovir, given intravenously (directly into the veins), is used to treat serious herpes simplex and varicella-zoster (chickenpox) infections. It is also used to prevent herpes simplex in patients receiving strong immunosuppressive drugs, such as those used in cancer chemotherapy or after organ transplantation. The oral form of the drug is only moderately effective in treating and preventing recurrences of genital herpes simplex. Zidovudine (also known as AZT) is presently the drug of choice in treating HIV-1 infections. An investigational drug called didanosine (DDI) has also been shown to be active against the AIDS virus (HIV-1) in the laboratory, and to decrease symptoms of AIDS and AIDS-related complex in uncontrolled trials. Other investigational drugs for use with HIV-1 infections are discussed. Interferon is an effective treatment for condylomata acuminata (genital and anal warts). It is also useful in the treatment of chronic hepatitis B and C, and AIDS-associated Kaposi's sarcoma. Ribavirin in aerosol form is used for viral bronchiolitis (inflammation of the bronchioles of the lungs) and pneumonia in children. The effectiveness, dose and administration, and adverse effects of these and other antiviral drugs are discussed. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Health aspects, Virus diseases, Antiviral agents

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New drugs for HIV infection

Article Abstract:

The FDA has approved five new anti-HIV drugs that hold promise for patients with advanced disease. Stavudine and lamivudine join the nucleoside analogs, such as zidovudine. The other three novel drugs are the protease inhibitors saquinavir, ritonavir, and indinavir. Triple drug combinations of one protease inhibitor and two nucleosides are considered the most potent drug therapy. Other combinations or two-drug combinations are also possible. Selecting the most effective nucleoside analog is difficult, although lamivudine has the least side effects and zidovudine has performed well in tests. Ritonavir has negative side effects and interacts poorly with other drugs. Saquinavir may not perform particularly well unless used in combination. A discussion of each drug is followed by information on current pricing.

Pharmaceutical industry, Product introduction, Nucleoside analogs

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Lopinavir/ritonavir: a protease-inhibitor combination

Article Abstract:

The FDA has approved Kaletra for the treatment of HIV infection. It is a combination of ritonavir and lopinavir and can be used to treat HIV strains that are resistant to other protease inhibitors.

Product/Service Evaluation, Kaletra (Medication)

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