Allovirin

Allovirin is a synthetic antiviral drug developed by the pharmaceutical company Gilead Sciences. It is designed to treat infections caused by RNA viruses, including influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and coronaviruses such as SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Allovirin works by inhibiting viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, an enzyme essential for viral replication. This mechanism of action makes it effective against a wide range of RNA viruses.

The drug was initially developed as a potential treatment for influenza and RSV, but its potential to treat COVID-19 was recognized early in the pandemic. Clinical trials have shown that allovirin can reduce viral load and improve clinical outcomes in patients with COVID-19. However, its use has been limited by its high cost and the need for intravenous administration.

Allovirin is typically administered as a single dose, usually within the first few days of symptom onset. It has been shown to be effective in both hospitalized and non-hospitalized patients. The drug's effectiveness is thought to be due to its ability to inhibit viral replication early in the infection, preventing the virus from establishing a strong infection.

Despite its potential, allovirin has not been widely adopted due to its high cost and the availability of other treatments. However, it remains an important tool in the fight against RNA virus infections and continues to be studied for its potential to treat other viral diseases.