Helicase–Primase Inhibitor Pritelivir for HSV-2 Infection

New treatments are needed for herpes simplex virus infection. In this placebo-controlled, randomized, dose-ranging trial, pritelivir, an inhibitor of the viral helicase–primase complex, reduced genital HSV-2 shedding in a dose-dependent fashion. Treatment of genital infections with the herpes simplex virus (HSV) relies on nucleoside analogues that inhibit the HSV DNA polymerase after phosphorylation by the viral thymidine kinase. 1 These compounds, which were developed three decades ago and are in widespread use today, ameliorate clinical disease. However, they do not abrogate viral shedding and only partially reduce the risk of transmission to sexual partners. 2 – 4 In immunocompromised persons, resistance to nucleoside analogues develops occasionally, and treatment options for acyclovir-resistant HSV are limited. 5 , 6 The thiazolylamide pritelivir (BAY 57-1293; AIC316) is the first in a new class of antiviral agents that inhibit HSV . . .