A Review of Commonly Prescribed Antiviral and Antiretroviral Agents

Abstract

Objective: To review the pharmacologic properties of and uses for the most commonly prescribed antiviral agents. Data Sources: A MEDLINE/PubMed search (1966–September 2010) was conducted for English-language articles using the terms HIV, hepatitis, cytomegalovirus (CMV), herpes simplex virus (HSV), antiviral agents, antiretroviral agent, acyclovir, valganciclovir, valacyclovir, interferon, ribavirin, ritonavir, efavirenz, zidovudine, darunavir, lopinavir, tenofovir, raltegravir, lamivudine, atazanavir, and emtricitabine. Book chapters and recent guidelines pertaining to the pathophysiology or pharmacologic properties of antiviral agents were also reviewed. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Articles, chapters, and guidelines pertaining to the relevant pharmacologic agents were collected for review. Data Synthesis: Viral pathogens affect multiple organs, causing direct and indirect damage by activating an immune response. Unlike bacterial infections, which can be eradicated from the host system, viral infections are not curable. Antiviral treatments are prescribed to reduce morbidity and mortality. There are many antiviral and more than 20 antiretroviral agents currently approved by the FDA. These include acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir for HSV; ganciclovir, valganciclovir, foscarnet, and cidofovir for CMV; interferon and ribavirin for hepatitis; efavirenz, tenofovir, emtricitabine, atazanavir, darunavir, lopinavir, ritonavir, raltegravir, zidovudine, and lamivudine as first-line agents for HIV. Conclusions: Viral illnesses affect a large portion of the population. Given the multitude of drugs available, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians should be educated about common treatment options. Having a strong knowledge of commonly prescribed antiviral drugs allows these frontline professionals to make a significant impact on the quality of care that they provide to their patients and community.