Lysovir Description

With the coming of every Fall and Winter, not far behind the flu is lurking and loves nothing better than to find families stuck indoors, crowds of shoppers mingling in the malls, and those with lowered immune systems. Lysovir is an oral antiviral medication that can be prescribed to treat those with type A influenza or help prevent infection of individuals that are most likely to be infected due to having a compromised immune system.

Retirement homes and senior care facilities may be perfect targets as elderly people tend to have other medical issues that could make fending off influenza difficult. You should also ask your doctor whether an annual flu vaccination is recommended to prevent being a flu victim again. Lysovir has also been approved as part of the treatment for Parkinson’s disease during ‘off’ times when stiffness, shakiness, and muscle control needs some extra help.

Interference with Viral Replication During Early Stage

The active ingredient in Lysovir is called Amantadine, a specific blocker of the M2 (Matrix-2) proton channel. When taken as directed, Lysovir will work to interfere with an early stage of replication by blocking the proton pump of the virus’ M2 protein. This action is effective in stopping the release of the viral genetic material from the capsid or shell during or after penetration so infection fails, as well as inactivating any new viral proteins.

Conditions Treated by Lysovir

Viruses are more like a brain with no body. It has everything it needs, except a way to pass on its genetic material so there can be new viruses. So the virus must find a “host” cell that possesses the machinery needed to work the viral material. Once inside the cell, the virus is able to produce RNA (ribonucleic acid) into DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) or vice-versa, depending on the virus. In the case of type A influenza, it is turning DNA into RNA (this is called transcription). Next is called translation as proteins are then built based on the encoded instructions of the viral genetic material. The virus can replicate as it takes over more cells.

Before Lysovir is Prescribed to You

You should not take Lysovir if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or are breast feeding as it may be harmful to your unborn or nursing baby. Discuss other medical conditions or allergies with your doctor and list any OTC or Rx drugs you currently use or take, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements. This will help your doctor determine if Lysovir is the right medication for you.

Lysovir Proper Use and Recommendations

When treating the flu, take Lysovir for the recommended course of treatment to be certain the infection has cleared. Lysovir only treats certain viral infections so your doctor may recommend testing before prescribing Lysovir which could involve swabs or blood tests if the infection has only been apparent for 48 hours or less. Until you know how your body reacts to Lysovir, use caution when operating machinery or a vehicle.

Possible Side Effects of Lysovir

• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Blurred vision
• Swollen ankles

Drugs Similar to Lysovir

• Tamiflu
• Symmetrel
• Relenza Diskhaler