Methisazone

An antiviral drug used in the treatment of smallpox

Methisazone, also known as Marboran, is an antiviral drug that was historically used in the prevention and treatment of smallpox. It is a member of the thiosemicarbazone class of drugs and was primarily used during the 1960s and 1970s before the eradication of smallpox.

History

Methisazone was developed in the mid-20th century as part of efforts to find effective treatments for viral infections, particularly smallpox. The drug was synthesized by the National Institute for Medical Research in the United Kingdom and was marketed under the trade name Marboran.

Mechanism of Action

Methisazone works by inhibiting the synthesis of viral proteins, thereby preventing the replication of the variola virus, which causes smallpox. It specifically targets the early stages of viral replication, making it effective in reducing the severity of the disease if administered early in the infection.

Clinical Use

Methisazone was primarily used as a prophylactic agent to prevent smallpox in individuals who had been exposed to the virus. It was also used in some cases to treat smallpox, although its efficacy in this regard was limited compared to the smallpox vaccine.

Side Effects

The use of methisazone was associated with several side effects, including gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea and vomiting. Some patients also experienced headaches and dizziness. Due to these side effects and the advent of more effective treatments, the use of methisazone declined over time.

Discontinuation

With the successful eradication of smallpox in 1980, the need for methisazone diminished significantly. The drug is no longer in use today, and its production has been discontinued.

Also see

• Smallpox
• Variola virus
• Antiviral drug
• Thiosemicarbazone
• Smallpox vaccine