[Influenza: new therapeutic perspectives]

TWO WELL-KNOWN AGENTS: Although the activity of amantadin and rimantadin against type A Myxovirus influenzae are well known, use is still limited. These agents only have a moderate curative effect and, though they are more effective for prophylaxis, can only be used in cases with a certain positive diagnosis, which is difficult to obtain. In addition, questions remain concerning tolerance which is not always excellent, particularly for amantadin.This compound belongs to a new class. It specifically inhibits the neuraminidase in type A and B Myxovirus influenzae. Given by the nasal route, zanamivir has been shown to be effective compared with placebo, reducing the duration and intensity of flu symptoms and with a very satisfactory tolerance profile. GS4104: Studies are in the preliminary phases for this agent which is a powerful inhibitor of the influenzae A and B virus neuraminidase. It has been found to be active in mouse and rodent models.Vaccination remains the only effective tool today. These new compounds can only be seen as complementary agents to be used in combination with vaccination regimes.