Arbidol

Arbidol) is an antiviral drug manufactured by Masterlek in Moscow, Russia.

Chemically, Arbidol features an indole core, functionalized at all positions but one with different substituents.

Uses
It is an alternative to Tamiflu (manufactured by Roche Pharmaceuticals) used in the fight against avian influenza. Its antiviral inhibitory effect is still being tested and the current results range from being well accepted in pharmaceutical industry to accepted with a dose of suspicion.

The drug has mainly been tested in Russia and China, and has been shown to be effective against avian flu, suggesting it might be a more affordable and cost-effective drug than the widely used Tamiflu.

There is some evidence that it may be more effective at preventing infections from RNA viruses than from DNA viruses.

It has also been investigated as a candidate drug against hepatitis C.

Mechanism of action
The drug exhibits immunomodulation as well as a specific anti-influenza action against the influenza A and influenza B viruses.

It prevents contact between the virus and host cells and penetration of virus particles into the cell by inhibiting the fusion of the virus lipid shell to the cell membranes.

It possesses interferon inducing action, by stimulating the humoral reaction and the phagocytic function of macrophages.

Dosage forms
The drug is manufactured in the form of tablets and capsules, each tablet containing Arbidol® as its active ingredient (50 mg and 100 mg).

Pharmacokinetics and usage
Side effects in children include sensitization to the drug. No known overdose cases have been reported and allergic reactions are limited to people with hypersensitivity.