Old drugs for a new bug: influenza, HIV drugs enlisted to fight SARS

Article Abstract:

Researchers and pharmaceutical companies are racing to develop effective drugs against SARS in case the infection re-emerges in the spring of 2004. They are looking at protease inhibitors and interferon, which were both developed to treat viral infections such as AIDS and hepatitis. Some antiviral agents developed for influenza may be useful for treating SARS. A new class of drugs call fusion inhibitors is also being tested.

Antiviral agents

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CDC unveils SARS plan: emphasizes rapid identification, communication. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, severe acute respiratory syndrome)

Article Abstract:

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has developed a plan for dealing with SARS in the event of an outbreak in the US. There is no effective vaccine or treatment for SARS, so patients must be quickly isolated and those exposed to them must be quarantined. Communities may even consider closing schools and other public gatherings. The report is available on the CDC's web site.

Administration of Public Health Programs, Centers for Disease Control, Reports, United States. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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Experimental drugs take aim at obesity

Article Abstract:

Only two drugs for treating obesity are available as of 2003 and two more are being tested. Xenical and Meridia have different mechanisms and side effects. Axokine and rimonabant are under development and are being tested in phase 3 trials as of April, 2003.

Obesity, Weight reducing preparations, Anti-obesity agents

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