Monkeypox is more common in the U.S. than any other Western country in the world. So, it is no surprise that a search is underway in America for a medication to treat it. There is a vaccine for prevention and treatment but no fully understood antiviral for treatment.
An article in the New England Journal of Medicine today (8/3/22) discussed an antiviral medication, tecovirimat that is being evaluated for treatment of monkeypox. So far, experiments on animals, including primates, have shown benefits in treating monkeypox with this agent.
Most cases of monkeypox resolve in 2-4 weeks but the NEJM article notes that some cases have serious consequences such as eye involvement, infection with bacteria in skin sores from monkeypox, and extremely painful anal, rectal, and oral sores. Thus, finding an effective antiviral drug is important.
Unfortunately, the efficacy in humans is not known so more studies need to be done. It is also not yet known how safe it is in humans with monkeypox. It has an acceptable safety profile in human volunteers without monkeypox, however.
Much work is being done to find answers quickly and with safety in mind. Until more is known, prevention is the best option. Avoid close contact with anyone who has skin sores that may be from monkeypox. A disproportionate number of cases occur in men who have sex with men so it is recommended that these men would benefit from being in a monogamous relationship.
If you are concerned that you may have been exposed to monkeypox, contact your physician right away to find out if you are a candidate for the vaccine and whether it is available. The two vaccines currently available in the U.S. can be given either before or after exposure. If you are at risk of exposure, your doctor may recommend it.
