Sorivudine

Sorivudine.svg

Sorivudine is an antiviral drug that was developed for the treatment of herpes zoster (shingles). It is a nucleoside analog, specifically a bromovinyl derivative of uracil. Sorivudine works by inhibiting the replication of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the virus responsible for causing shingles.

Mechanism of Action

Sorivudine is converted in the body to its active form, bromovinyluracil triphosphate, which inhibits the viral enzyme DNA polymerase. This inhibition prevents the virus from replicating its DNA, thereby reducing the spread of the virus within the host.

Clinical Use

Sorivudine was primarily used in the treatment of herpes zoster. It was found to be effective in reducing the duration and severity of the disease. However, its use has been limited due to severe drug interactions.

Drug Interactions

Sorivudine is known to interact with certain chemotherapy drugs, particularly those that are metabolized by the enzyme dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD). This interaction can lead to severe, and sometimes fatal, toxicity. As a result, the use of sorivudine has been restricted in many countries.

Adverse Effects

The most significant adverse effect of sorivudine is its potential to cause severe toxicity when combined with certain chemotherapy agents. Other side effects may include gastrointestinal disturbances, headache, and skin reactions.

History

Sorivudine was developed in the 1990s and was initially approved for use in Japan. However, after reports of fatal drug interactions, its use was significantly curtailed.

See Also

• Herpes zoster
• Antiviral drug
• Varicella-zoster virus
• DNA polymerase
• Chemotherapy