Arbidol: Mechanism of Action and Therapeutic Effects

Arbidol is an antiviral drug primarily indicated for influenza caused by influenza A and B viruses. Testing has shown that arbidol can effectively inhibit coronaviruses by up to 60-fold and significantly suppress the virus-induced cytopathic effect in cells. So, what are the actions and therapeutic effects of arbidol? Below is an overview.

Actions and Therapeutic Effects of Arbidol

1. Treatment of Respiratory Tract Infections

Arbidol tablets are antiviral agents that exert their effect primarily by inhibiting the fusion of the influenza virus envelope with host cell membranes, thereby blocking viral replication. They are mainly used to treat upper respiratory tract infections caused by influenza A and B viruses and may also be employed for prophylaxis against influenza.

2. Treatment of SARS-CoV-2 Infection

Arbidol is currently also used in the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection, with a maximum treatment duration of 10 days. Its mechanism of action involves inhibition of fusion between the viral envelope and host cell membranes, thereby suppressing viral replication. Testing indicates that arbidol can effectively inhibit coronaviruses by up to 60-fold and significantly attenuate virus-induced cytopathic effects in cells.

3. Treatment of Acute Viral Pharyngitis

Acute viral pharyngitis is typically caused by pathogens such as rhinovirus or respiratory syncytial virus. Arbidol administration helps control viral replication, alleviates symptoms including sore throat, itching, and burning discomfort, prevents persistent pharyngeal congestion and edema, and promptly improves hoarseness, coughing, and sneezing.

The above outlines the actions and therapeutic effects of arbidol. Some patients may experience adverse reactions following its use, most commonly nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, and elevated serum transaminase levels. Pregnant and lactating women, as well as patients with severe renal insufficiency, should use arbidol with caution or strictly follow medical advice. We hope this information is helpful—wishing you good health and happiness!