Antiviral chemotherapy for pneumonia in children.

The development of antiviral drugs is changing the specific treatment of viral pneumonias. Today the clinician is able to diagnose the cause of some viral pneumonias early enough that specific therapy can be initiated. Although symptomatic treatment remains an important component of therapy, specific antiviral drugs are playing a more important role. No single antiviral agent has been demonstrated effective against all respiratory viruses. Some antiviral agents appear to be more effective used as prophylaxis or to prevent dissemination of disease; while others lessen symptoms, duration of illness, and viral shedding. Spectrum of activity, dosage, adverse reaction, and cost of the approved antiviral drugs useful in viral pneumonia is presented.