From the Research
Ivadrabine, also known as vidarabine, is an antiviral medication that is no longer the first-line treatment for herpes simplex virus infections due to the availability of more effective and safer alternatives, such as acyclovir and valacyclovir, as discussed in the most recent study 1. The treatment of herpes simplex virus infections has evolved over the years, with various antiviral agents being developed and tested for their efficacy and safety.
- The study published in 2008 2 provides an evidence-based review of the treatment of herpes simplex infections, highlighting the importance of choosing an appropriate drug and dosing regimen based on clinical characteristics and patient preference.
- However, the most recent study published in 2021 1 provides an updated review of the current drugs used to treat infections with herpes simplex viruses-1 and -2, and it does not recommend ivadrabine as a first-line treatment.
- Another study published in 1992 3 compared the efficacy of vidarabine and foscarnet in the treatment of acyclovir-resistant herpes simplex virus infections, and found that foscarnet was more effective.
- A study published in 1984 4 compared the efficacy of acyclovir and vidarabine in the treatment of herpes simplex keratitis, and found that both medications were equally effective.
- The review article published in 2013 5 focuses on the anti-herpesvirus agents effective against herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus, and cytomegalovirus, and mentions vidarabine as one of the licensed agents, but also discusses newer agents that are more effective and safer. Based on the most recent and highest quality study 1, the use of ivadrabine is not recommended as a first-line treatment for herpes simplex virus infections, and instead, more effective and safer alternatives such as acyclovir and valacyclovir should be used.