Respiratory syncytial virus, parainfluenza virus and human metapneumovirus as promising new targets

The 2009/10 influenza H1N1 pandemic has boosted awareness of respiratory viral infections. Stockpiling has been pivotal for the strong growth of the influenza antivirals market, with 2009 seven major market sales reaching $1,772m. As the pandemic recedes, other promising targets in the sector include respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), parainfluenza virus (PIV) and human metapneumovirus (hMPV).

The pandemic threat has fuelled growth of the influenza antivirals market, with total 7MM sales of $1,772m in 2009 and a compound annual growth rate of 31.9% from 2005-09. Convenient oral dosing makes Roche's Tamiflu the market leader, with 2009 sales of $1,426m in the 7MM.

The role of rapid point-of-care diagnostics divides opinion, with uptake deterred by high cost and poor performance, although reimbursement in Japan facilitates greater antiviral usage for seasonal influenza. Growing resistance to Tamiflu highlights the need for new oral or infrequently dosed inhaled antivirals with a strong resistance profile.

A vaccine is a key unmet need for RSV, with physicians divided on the need for and efficacy of antivirals for RSV treatment. Synagis saw 7MM sales of $1,218m in 2009, although high cost is increasingly hindering its commercial prospects, highlighting the growing opportunity for vaccines and an additional potential role for cheaper therapeutics.

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