ANTIVIRALS

Question 1

Guanine analogues (-ciclovir)

Answer 1

Guanine analogues (-ciclovir)
Indication:
- Herpes simplex infections and shingles
Mechanism of action:
- Inhibit DNA polymerase and DNA synthesis
Examples:
- Aciclovir
- Valaciclovir (pro-drug for aciclovir)
- Famciclovir
Adverse effects:
- Generally well-tolerated, but can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Aciclovir preferred (valaciclovir from 36 weeks)

Question 2

Antivirals
3 TYPES

Answer 2

Antivirals
1. Guanine analogues
2. Neurominidase inhibitors
3. Palivizumab

Question 3

Neurominidase inhibitors (-mivir)

Answer 3

Neurominidase inhibitors (-mivir)
Examples:
- Peramivir (IV)
- Oseltamivir (ORAL)
- Zanamivir (INHALED)
Mechanism of action:
- Reduces viral replication by inhibiting neurominidase (viral surface enzyme), stopping release of new virus from cells
Indication:
- Influenza A, B treatment in high-risk and hospitalised patients
Pregnancy and breastfeeding:
- Oseltamivir and Zanamivir are safe