Which influenza therapy inhibits both influenza A and influenza B?

Which influenza therapy inhibits both influenza A and influenza B?

• A. Zanamivir
• B. Oseltamivir
• C. Amantadine
• D. Rimantadine

Answer: (B)

Neuraminidase inhibitors prevent the release of newly formed influenza viruses from infected cells, limiting spread. This mechanism works against both influenza A and B because both types rely on neuraminidase to disseminate. Oseltamivir is an oral neuraminidase inhibitor that is effective against both influenza A and B and is used for treatment and post-exposure prophylaxis. The other major class here, the M2 ion-channel blockers, targets only influenza A and does not work against influenza B, which is why they’re not suitable when both types are a concern. Zanamivir also inhibits neuraminidase and covers both A and B, but the commonly used oral option highlighted here is oseltamivir.

Neuraminidase inhibitors prevent the release of newly formed influenza viruses from infected cells, limiting spread. This mechanism works against both influenza A and B because both types rely on neuraminidase to disseminate. Oseltamivir is an oral neuraminidase inhibitor that is effective against both influenza A and B and is used for treatment and post-exposure prophylaxis. The other major class here, the M2 ion-channel blockers, targets only influenza A and does not work against influenza B, which is why they’re not suitable when both types are a concern. Zanamivir also inhibits neuraminidase and covers both A and B, but the commonly used oral option highlighted here is oseltamivir.