Abstract

Inosine pranobex (Imunovir - Edwin Burgess) is an oral antiviral and immunomodulating drug marketed for use in herpes simplex and genital wart infections. Although it has been studied in the laboratory and clinic for 20 years¹ its efficacy has been questioned repeatedly^2–5. In tissue-culture the drug has weak and inconsistent antiviral effects^2,6. Inosine pranobex acts against viruses partly by enhancing the host's immune response^7,8. Clinical trials of acyclovir (Zovirax - Wellcome)⁹ have set high standards and other anti-herpes drugs should be compared with acyclovir.