Antiviral agents and therapeutics against respiratory viruses

Abstract

Introduction: Respiratory viruses are responsible for significant worldwide morbidity and mortality. While vaccines are highly effective at reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with viral infections, this protection is incomplete. It requires a high degree of compliance, which is hindered by vaccine hesitancy. To address these gaps, antiviral agents and therapeutics are crucial in combating diseases caused by respiratory viruses. Antiviral agents are broadly classified into two groups: 1) direct-acting antivirals (DAA) and 2) host-directed antivirals (HDA).

Areas covered: This review comprehensively examines Phase II FDA-approved antiviral drugs for influenza virus, SARS-CoV-2, and RSV as published in clinicaltrials.gov. It focuses on DAAs and various monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that have been approved for the prevention and treatment of viral respiratory tract infections.

Expert opinion: Antiviral drugs being developed assess different mechanisms of action to combat viruses and other delivery routes (i.e. oral, inhalation, or parenteral). The associated clinical trials address the impact on disease while determining the appropriate dosage levels for further investigation in Phase III. A robust pipeline of agents is necessary to meet the global need for effective antiviral therapeutics.

Keywords: DAAs; Phase II antivirals; RSV; SARS-CoV-2; direct-acting antivirals; influenza.