Anti-Viral Drugs: Ch. 40

Question 1

Acyclovir (Zorovax)

-Attacks?
-3 examples
-used for?

Answer 1

attacks aggravating viral infections:
HSV-1
HSV-2
VZV (chickenpox/shingles)

used for initial and current episodes

Question 2

Ganciclovir (Cytovene)
-attacks?
-pregnancy concerns?
-dose-limiting toxicities?

Answer 2

Attacks: CMV, serious transplant, HIV/immunocompromised infections

Pregnancy category D
-prevention is key

Bone marrow toxicity

Question 3

Oseltamivir (Tamiflu)
Xanamivir (Relenza)

-uses?
-active against?
-effects?
-How should does treatment need to begin?
-AEs?

Answer 3

Relief from the flu
-active against influenza A and B
Reduces duration of illness
-treatment should begin within 2 days of symptom onset

AEs: GI, sinusitis

Question 4

Ribavirin (Virazole)
-For?
-Contraindications?
-Route for infants?
-Also indicated for?

Answer 4

RSV

Pregnancy
-males/females should not conceive within 6 months after treatment- 2 forms of birth control

Caution w/ pregnancy healthcare workers

Inhaled route for infants

Hepatitis C

Question 5

What are the 3 MOAs for Hepatitis C meds?

Answer 5

Enzyme inhibition prevents replication

RNA polymerase inhibition

Protease inhibition

Question 6

Explain Antiretroviral Therapy
-What is essential?
-When are modifications necessary?

Answer 6

Combo of 3+ meds attacking different viral replication steps

Strict adherence is essential

Modifications due to AEs/resistance

Question 7

What are some HIV drug AEs?

Answer 7

Elevated liver function tests: hepatomegaly
Myopathy (muscle pain)
Rhabdomyolysis: leads to kidney failure
Lactic acidosis
Lipodystrophy

Common drug interactions

Question 8

Explain prEP

Answer 8

HIV Pre-exposure prophylaxis

Combo of 2 reverse transcriptase inhibitors

For those at high HIV risk

Daily use

90% effective in prevention

Consistent use is key