Antiviral drugs ch 10 Flashcards
Describe a virus
A virus cannot replicate on its own
It must attach to and enter a host cell
It then uses the host cell’s energy to synthesize protein, DNA, and RNA
Virus difficult to kill because they live inside the cell
Best response to viral infections is a well-functioning immune system
Describe different causes of infections
Immunocompromised patients have frequent viral infections
Cancer patients especially leukemia or lymphoma
Transplant patients due to pharmacologic therapy
AIDS patients disease attacks immune system
What are different types of antivirals?
Viruses controlled by current antiviral therapy
Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
Hepatitis viruses
Herpes viruses
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
Influenza viruses (the “flu”)
What do antiviral drugs do?
Used to treat infections caused by viruses other than HIV
What do antiretroviral drugs do?
Used to treat infections caused by HIV, the virus that causes AIDS
What is rimantadine (Flumadine)
Antiviral
What are therapeutic actions of rimantadine (Flumadine)?
Antiviral
Prevent shedding of protein coat and entry into cell
Prevents viral replication, promotes death
What are indications of rimantadine (Flumadine)?
Antiviral
Active against influenza types A & B, RSV
What are contras/cautions with rimantadine (Flumadine)?
Antiviral
Renal toxicity potential
Possible dopamine level alterations
Dizziness, hypotension, insomnia
What is acyclovir (Zovirax)
Antiviral
What are therapeutic actions of acyclovir (Zovirax)
Antiviral
Inhibits viral DNA replication
What are indications of acyclovir (Zovirax)
Antivirals
Herpes, CMV
Effective in immuno-compromised population
What are adverse effects of acyclovir (Zovirax)
Antiviral
GI – N/V
CNS – neuropathy, HA, dizziness
What are contras/cautions of acyclovir (Zovirax)
Antiviral
Not in pregnancy, lactation
Caution with renal dz, may need to dose reduce
Careful when given with other nephrotoxic drugs
