Treating influenza with neuraminidase inhibitors: an update of the literature.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Influenza affects individuals of all ages and poses a significant threat during pandemics, epidemics, and sporadic outbreaks. Neuraminidase inhibitors (NAIs) are currently the first choice in the treatment and prevention of influenza, but their use can be hindered by viral resistance. AREAS COVERED This review summarizes current NAIs pharmacological profiles, their current place in therapy, and the mechanisms of viral resistance and outlines possible new indications, ways of administration, and novel candidate NAIs compounds. EXPERT OPINION NAIs represent a versatile group of compounds with diverse administration methods and pharmacokinetics. While the prevalence of influenza virus resistance to NAIs remains low, there is heightened vigilance due to the pandemic potential of influenza. Several novel NAIs and derivatives are currently under assessment at various stages of development for the treatment and prevention of influenza.