Pediatr. praxi 2019; 20(2): 78-81 | DOI: 10.36290/ped.2019.017

Treatment options for viral infections in children

MUDr. Hana Zelená

Oddělení virologie, Centrum klinických laboratoří, Zdravotní ústav se sídlem v Ostravě

At present, a number of viral diseases can be treated causally with antiviral drugs. The indications of antiviral drugs are limited by a restricted spectrum of available agents and their pharmaceutical forms, toxicity, high cost, and, in children, even by age restrictions. They are administered primarily in viral infections with a severe course and immune-deficient persons. The dosage and pharmaceutical form depend on the infective agent and disease severity. Antiviral drugs have been approved for the treatment of HIV infection, hepatitis B and C, influenza, some herpesviruses, and RS viruses. In the off-label setting, they are even used in treating other severe viral infections. In prophylactic indications, a specific hyperimmune immunoglobulin is available for VZV, and a humanized monoclonal antibody can be used for RSV prophylaxis. The article summarizes the options of administering these agents, with a particular focus on the use in the paediatric population.

Keywords: viral disease, treatment, antiviral drugs, vaccination

Published: April 23, 2019  Show citation