What medications are used to treat viral pneumonia?
Aug 03, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
There are currently no specific antiviral drugs approved for viral pneumonia; however, certain antiviral agents are frequently used empirically in clinical practice. For instance, patients with influenza virus–induced pneumonia may take oseltamivir capsules orally under a physician’s guidance. In cases of novel coronavirus pneumonia (COVID-19), antiviral agents such as lopinavir, ritonavir, chloroquine phosphate, and arbidol may be considered under medical supervision.
Viral pneumonia is a relatively common disease, frequently affecting elderly individuals and children. If left untreated promptly, it may lead to complications. Many patients are unaware of appropriate actions to take after falling ill or of the severity of this condition. So, what medications are used to treat viral pneumonia?
What medications are used for viral pneumonia?
Currently, there are no specific antiviral drugs approved for viral pneumonia; however, certain antiviral agents are commonly trialed in clinical practice. For instance, patients with influenza virus–induced pneumonia may take oseltamivir capsules orally under physician guidance. In cases of infection with the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), antiviral agents such as lopinavir, ritonavir, chloroquine phosphate, or arbidol may be considered under medical supervision. If bacterial co-infection is present, appropriate antibiotics may be prescribed by a physician.
Under physician guidance, patients with viral pneumonia may also take symptomatic medications orally—for example, ibuprofen suspension or acetaminophen tablets for fever reduction. For expectoration, acetylcysteine effervescent tablets or ambroxol tablets may be used. Patients with prominent coughing may take antitussive medications such as pentoxyverine citrate tablets or compound licorice tablets.
Patients are advised to adopt healthy lifestyle habits, maintain a balanced diet, avoid spicy and irritating foods, and strictly follow their physician’s instructions regarding medication use. We hope this information proves helpful to you.
