Effect of administration of diethylcarbamazine on murine leukemia virus (Cas-Br-M) infected mice.

Previous studies indicate that decreased serum viral infectivity and viral antigen levels follow oral administration of diethylcarbamazine (DEC) in feline leukemia virus infected cats, even though DEC has not been shown to exhibit in vitro antiviral activity. In this investigation, DEC was given by oral administration or (single dose) IP injection to murine leukemia virus (Cas-Br-M) inoculated mice to permit evaluation of its effect on viral-induced central nervous system disease. The survival of Cas-Br-M inoculated mice receiving DEC in water was significantly prolonged relative to similarly inoculated mice receiving distilled water. Among the Cas-Br-M inoculated mice euthanatized after the study, higher body weights and trend toward less severe brain and splenic lesions were noted in those receiving DEC in drinking water. Given these results, the possible utility of DEC in treatment of retroviral and other infections warrants further study.