It's all about Zanamivir (Relenza)
Introduction Figure 1: Example of Zanamivir (Relenza) Relenza is a medication that contains zanamivir as an active ingredient. Zanamivir is an antiviral drug which is being used in the treatment and prevention of influenza A and B (Figure 1). It is a selective inhibitor of viral neuraminidase enzyme which is necessary for the release of newly formed viruses from the surface of infected host cells. [1] Zanamivir (a white to off-white powder) is an orally inhaled drug. It is administered through oral inhalation by using Diskhaler as it will provide direct access to the respiratory system where the influenza virus usually resides and replicates. [2] Details of Zanamivir [2] Chemical Name 5-(acetylamino)-4-[(aminoiminomethyl)-amino]-2,6-anhydro-3,4,5-trideoxy-D-glycero-D-galacto-non-2-en onic acid. Molecular Formula C 12 H 20 N 4 O 7 Structural Formula Molecular Weight 332.31 g/mol Melting Point >2450° C (lit.) Solubility Soluble in water Mechanism of Action