Scientists at IIT Roorkee have achieved a major breakthrough by identifying a potential drug for the treatment of chikungunya. Let us know some important things about it.
Scientists at IIT Roorkee have achieved a major breakthrough by identifying a potential drug for the treatment of chikungunya. Scientists have found that the drug 'Efavirenz' used to treat HIV can be effective in preventing the growth of the chikungunya virus. This study is supported by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
Scientists tested lab-grown cells and infected mice and found that efavirenz significantly reduced virus levels. The drug blocks the replication of the virus, slowing the spread of the chikungunya virus.
According to the lead author of the study, Dr. Sanket Nehul, Efavirenz interferes with the replication stage of the virus, thereby stopping its growth. The special thing is that this drug is already being widely used in the treatment of HIV. In such a situation, using it for chikungunya will take less time and cost than developing a new drug.
IIT Roorkee researchers, led by Prof. Shailly Tomar, have identified Efavirenz, an existing HIV drug, as a potential antiviral against Chikungunya. This significant breakthrough could pave the way for a cost-effective treatment, subject to further clinical trials.
Scientists also
found that efavirenz inhibits the growth of the Sindbis virus, a close relative of the chikungunya virus. This indicates that the drug may be effective against virus infections other than chikungunya.
There is no specific treatment for Chikungunya
Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease that spreads through the bite of infected Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. Its symptoms include high fever, severe joint pain, fatigue and rashes. Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment available for Chikungunya, so this new discovery is considered important.
More trials needed
However, IIT Roorkee scientists have clarified that this discovery is not a sure cure for chikungunya. Clinical trials are still needed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of this drug. If further trials are successful, this drug can become an important option in the treatment of chikungunya.
Disclaimer: Dear reader, thank you for reading this news. This news has been written only to make you aware. We have taken the help of general information in writing this. If you read anything related to your health anywhere, then definitely consult a doctor before adopting it.
