Zanamivir

Zanamivir is a substance that is being studied in the treatment of prostate cancer.

Zanamivir structure

Class

It belongs to the family of drugs called endothelin-receptor antagonists.

Information about Zanamivir

• Zanamivir is an inhibitor of the influenza neuramidase enzyme and is given by inhalation as therapy and prophylaxis against influenza A and B.
• Zanamivir may be used to treat and prevent infections from influenza A (H1N1).

Liver safety of Zanamivir

Zanamivir has not been associated with clinically apparent liver injury, at least when given by inhalation.

Mechanism of action of Zanamivir

• Zanamivir (za nam' i vir) is a sialic acid analogue and a potent inhibitor of the neuraminidase of influenza viruses.
• Inhibition of this enzyme causes a decrease in viral replication, probably as a result of interference with particle formation and release. Zanamivir is active against both influenza A and B viruses, but has no activity against other common upper respiratory tract viruses.
• In addition, resistance to zanamivir can develop rapidly.
• Zanamivir is indicated for therapy or post-exposure prevention of influenza A or B.

FDA approval information for Zanamivir

• Zanamivir was approved in the United States in 1999 and is frequently used during influenza outbreaks.
• Zanamivir is available as a powder for inhalation (5 mg/blister pack) under the brand name of Relenza.

Dose

• The recommended dose for therapy in adults is 2 oral inhalations of 5 mg each, twice daily for 5 days;
• the usual prophylactic regimen is 10 mg once daily for 10 days, starting within 2 days of close contact with an infected person or for 28 days in a community setting.

Side effects of Zanamivir

Side effects are uncommon and include mild nausea, dizziness, headache, cough, nasal and throat irritation and bronchospasm.

More serious side effects

• difficulty breathing
• wheezing
• shortness of breath
• hives
• rash
• itching
• difficulty swallowing
• swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• hoarseness

Brand names

Relenza®

Step by step instructions

• CDC step by step

Cost

• The lowest GoodRx price for the most common version of Relenza is around $69.40, 9% off the average retail price of $76.28.

External links

• Relenza: Consumer Questions and Answers US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
• Relenza web site GlaxoSmithKline

• Dailymed label info on Zanamivir
• FDA Zanamivir