2 - Antivirals Flashcards
________ is the drug of choice for most infections caused by HSV and VZV
Acyclovir
What is the MOA of Acyclovir?
suppresses synthesis of viral DNA
It’s a prodrug, and its conversion occurs almost exclusively in infected cells
What serious adverse effects are associated with PO Acyclovir?
None
The worst it causes is N/V/D
Headache and Vertigo
VERY well tolerated
Safe during pregnancy
A patient with herpes is being prescribed Acyclovir. What should you make abundantly clear?
The drug will suppress symptoms. It will not eliminate the virus.
What’s the difference between Valacyclovir and Acyclovir?
Valacyclovir is a prodrug of Acyclovir, and it has a much higher bioavailability as a result.
Which forms of hepatitis can cause chronic hepatitis?
B
C
D
Transmission of Hep C occurs via:
exchange of blood, usually by injection drug use
How many genotypes are there for HCV?
Which one causes 75% of infections?
Six
Type 1
What is the MOA of Ribavirin?
Previously used to treat HCV, to help Interferon A be more effective. Not recommended anymore.
No one is really sure how it works. It’s a nucleoside analog with broad spectrum antiviral activity
The principal AE concerns when prescribing Ribavirin are:
Hemolytic anemia
Fetal Injury
Why is it problematic for a patient with heart failure to take Ribavirin?
If they develop hemolytic anemia, the increased O2 demand can cause cardiac stress and MI
Who should absolutely not take Ribavirin?
Women who want to get pregnant
AND
Men whose partners are trying to get pregnant
What is the MOA of Interferon Alpha?
Binds to receptors on host cell membranes, then blocks viral entry into the cells
It also blocks the viral replication process within the cell
What is the most common side effect of Interferon Alpha?
Flu-like syndrome
Interferon Alpha carries a black box warning for:
Serious neuropsychiatric conditions (Suicide)
