Which antiviral agent is recommended for chemoprophylaxis of influenza?

Which antiviral agent is recommended for chemoprophylaxis of influenza?

• A. Zanamivir
• B. Oseltamivir
• C. Rimantadine
• D. Amantadine

Answer: (C)

Oseltamivir is the recommended antiviral agent for chemoprophylaxis of influenza, particularly in the context of preventing infection in individuals who have been exposed to the virus. This medication is a neuraminidase inhibitor that works by preventing the release of viral particles from infected cells, thereby halting the spread of the virus within the respiratory tract. While zanamivir is another neuraminidase inhibitor with similar antiviral properties, it is typically used for treatment rather than chemoprophylaxis. Rimantadine and amantadine are antiviral medications that were previously used for influenza A, but their effectiveness has diminished due to widespread resistance observed in circulating strains of the virus. Hence, oseltamivir is favored for prophylactic use because it has demonstrated effectiveness in preventing influenza when administered to individuals at high risk or following exposure, aligning with current guidelines for influenza management.

Oseltamivir is the recommended antiviral agent for chemoprophylaxis of influenza, particularly in the context of preventing infection in individuals who have been exposed to the virus. This medication is a neuraminidase inhibitor that works by preventing the release of viral particles from infected cells, thereby halting the spread of the virus within the respiratory tract.

While zanamivir is another neuraminidase inhibitor with similar antiviral properties, it is typically used for treatment rather than chemoprophylaxis. Rimantadine and amantadine are antiviral medications that were previously used for influenza A, but their effectiveness has diminished due to widespread resistance observed in circulating strains of the virus.

Hence, oseltamivir is favored for prophylactic use because it has demonstrated effectiveness in preventing influenza when administered to individuals at high risk or following exposure, aligning with current guidelines for influenza management.