Products
Laninamivir has been approved in Japan as a powder inhaler since 2010 (Inavir).
Structure and properties
Laninamivir (C13H22N4O7, Mr = 346,340 g/mol) is present in the drug as laninamiviroctanoate, an octanoyl ester prodrug that is metabolized to the active ingredient laninamivir after application.
Effects
Laninamivir has antiviral properties against influenza viruses. The effects are due to inhibition of the viral enzyme neuraminidase (sialidase). This enzyme and glycoprotein is located on the surface of the influenza virus along with hemagglutinin. It is essential for the release of newly formed viruses from infected cells and thus for the further spread of infectious viruses in the organism. Neuraminidase cuts off the terminal sialic acid to which the virus is bound after replication to the host cell surface. See also our descriptive animation on the topic: Tamiflu animation.
Indications
For the prevention and treatment of influenza (influenza, influenza A, and influenza B).
Dosage
According to the SmPC. Because of its long duration of action, a single dose of the drug is sufficient. Laninamivir is administered by inhalation.
