D.5 - Antiviral Medications Flashcards
Why is it more difficult to target drugs for viruses?
Because they lack a cell structure in comparison to bacteria.
How can antiviral drugs work?
They may work by altering the cell’s genetic material so that the virus cannot multiply. Alternatively, they may prevent the viruses from multiplying by blocking enzyme activity within the host cell.
What are viruses?
They are sub-microscopic organisms that replicate inside the living cells of other organisms. They have two main components, a protein coat and nucleic acid (either DNA or RNA). They do not carry out metabolic processes and are considered to be non-living. They derive their energy from the host cell.
What is bacteria?
They are single-called microorganisms. Unlike viruses, they are self-reproducing units (do not require a host). Bacteria contain various cell subunits (organelles) together with a cell wall. They carry out metabolic processes and are considered to be living.
What is the differences between bacteria and viruses?
Bacteria vs. viruses:
Self-reproducing units vs. need living hosts to multiply.
Carry out metabolic processes vs. they don’t.
Contain organelles that perform specific functions vs. consist only of genetic material and protein coat.
Many times larger than viruses.
What are oseltamivir (tamiflu) and zanamivir (relenza)?
They are both antivirals to prevent the spread of flu viruses.
How do oseltamivir and zanamivir work as a preventative agent against flu viruses?
By inhibiting the enzyme neuraminidase (found on the surface of the influenza virus that enables the virus to be realised from the host cell) by binding to its active site. This prevents the virus from leaving the host cell and cannot infect other cells.
What are the difficulties associated with treating HIV?
HIV destroys T-cells (the cells that protect the body from infection), can mutate rapidly, and uses host cells to replicate. The drugs used to treat HIV may also harm the host cell and is also expensive.
What are the sociocultural factors related to the AIDS problem?
Condom use - availability/ cost/ cultural resistance.
Cultural factors - ignorance/ misinformation/ social stigma.
Illegal activities - drug use/ prostitution.
Resources/ medical factors - availability of medical services/ cost of drugs.
