What is Tecovirimat
Tecovirimat is an antiviral drug, and the first medication approved for treatment of human smallpox disease caused by the variola virus.
Tecovirimat targets a virus specific protein (i.e., p37 envelope wrapping protein), and thus, possesses selective antiviral activity against orthopoxviruses, including variola virus.
By blocking the actions of viral p37 protein, tecovirimat inhibits production of extracellular virions; thereby preventing the spread of infection until the body’s immune system can clear the virus.
Efficacy data has been extrapolated from animal studies, as adequate and well-controlled studies in humans was not feasible. The drug is indicated for use in adults and pediatric patients weighing at least 13 kg
Brand Name
TPOXX
Indications
- variola virus (smallpox)
- variola virus (smallpox) infection
Side Effects
- abdominal pain
- arthralgia
- chills
- depression
- diarrhea
- dysgeusia
- dyspepsia
- dysphoria
- edema
- EEG changes
- eructation
- erythema
- fever
- headache
- irritability
- malaise
- migraine
- nausea
- paresthesias
- pruritus
- purpura
- rash
- sinus tachycardia
- vomiting
- xerostomia
Monitoring Parameters
- laboratory monitoring not necessary
Contraindications
- breast-feeding
- chemotherapy
- corticosteroid therapy
- immunosuppression
- pregnancy
- radiation therapy
Interactions
No information is available regarding drug interactions associated with Tecovirimat
