Pharmaceutical Treatment of Monkeypox Virus: A Narrative Review and Bibliometric Analysis

Abstract

Monkeypox virus infection is a recognized public health emergency. Little research has been done on treatment options for this disease. Until recently, there was not a single published work describing the usage of specific drugs in human patients with monkeypox virus infection. This paper gives the first bibliometric analysis of monkeypox treatment options based on data available on PubMed and Scopus. It also reviews the specific drugs used in the treatment of monkeypox. That includes data on Tecovirimat, Cidofovir, Brincidofovir, and Vaccinia Immune Globulin. Tecovirimat is a promising option in progressive disease in terms of efficacy and safety. However, Brincidofovir has been associated with discontinuation of treatment. Cidofovir is also not the preferred drug among physicians. Currently, Tecovirimat can be further used for the management of aggravating cases. More studies should be conducted on Tecovirimat to treat this condition, mainly through controlled trials.

Mpox (formerly monkeypox): pathogenesis, prevention, and treatment

“…105 Unlike Cidofovir, Brincidofovir does not require metabolism through the renal anion transport system, thus exhibiting higher bioavailability and no significant nephrotoxicity in vitro (VACV, EC 50 = 0.19 μM, in vero cells) and in vivo (Mpox virus, 10 mg/kg, mice, gastric gavage; Mpox virus, 200 mg, human, oral). [105][106][107][108][109] However, Brincidofovir still presents some adverse reactions such as gastrointestinal reactions and liver function injury. 101,110 Apart Fig.…”