A 45-year-old woman presents with fever, myalgia, and dry cough during influenza season. Rapid influenza diagnostic test is positive. Oseltamivir is prescribed. What is the mechanism of action of oseltamivir?
- A Inhibits viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase
- B Inhibits neuraminidase ✓
- C Blocks M2 ion channel protein
- D Inhibits viral uncoating
Correct answer: B. Inhibits neuraminidase
Explanation
Oseltamivir is a neuraminidase inhibitor that prevents release of progeny virions from infected host cells by blocking cleavage of sialic acid residues. Amantadine and rimantadine block the M2 ion channel, preventing viral uncoating. Baloxavir inhibits cap-dependent endonuclease. Ribavirin has multiple mechanisms including inhibition of viral RNA synthesis.
Reference: Katzung's Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 15th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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