Overview of Antiviral Drug Stockpiling and Management
The government pre-stocks and manages treatments such as antivirals and vaccines to respond to infectious disease crises
- The stockpiling goal is set at 25% of the population, and the quantities for each drug are determined by comprehensively considering factors such as drug efficacy, resistance development, and stockpiling trends both domestically and internationally.
- In the event of a public health crisis such as a pandemic of a novel influenza, prompt supply will be provided to local governments and healthcare institutions
Characteristics of Antiviral Drug Formulations
Oseltamivir (oral formulation)
- It is the most widely distributed globally and is recommended as a first-line treatment for various influenza diseases.음
- Its use is limited in severe patients and those who have difficulty with oral intake, and it is less effective against resistant viruses such as those with the H275Y genetic mutation.
Zanamivir (inhalation formulation)
- Administered via an inhaler, it is effective against viruses resistant to oseltamivir
- Its use is limited in patients who have difficulty inhaling (such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory diseases), and in reality, it is not widely used in our country.
Peramivir (injectable formulation)
- It is an injectable medication administered via intravenous injection, suitable for use in severe patients, and is effective with just a single dose, making it appropriate for hospitalized patients.
- - Like oseltamivir, it has resistance associated with the H275Y genetic mutation, posing concerns related to resistance.
Baloxavir (oral formulation)
- It inhibits the replication of the influenza virus, effectively blocking the early transmission of the virus.
- It is relatively expensive compared to other medications, and there is a lack of data regarding its safety and efficacy in pregnant women, etc.
Support and Supply of Antiviral Agents
- Support for local governments and healthcare institutions to maintain a constant stockpile of antiviral agents in preparation for infection crises such as novel influenza
- In the event of a temporary increase in demand for antiviral agents due to winter influenza outbreaks, supply of antiviral agents will be managed through public-private working groups to address supply instability.