eprociclovir

Eprociclovir is a **small molecule nucleoside analogue antiviral** and an acyclovir analogue developed by **Ajinomoto**. It is phosphorylated in virus-infected cells by viral and cellular enzymes, including viral thymidine kinase, to an active triphosphate metabolite that inhibits **viral DNA-directed DNA polymerase**, thereby suppressing replication of herpesviruses. Preclinical reports describe activity against multiple human herpesviruses including **herpes simplex virus** and **cytomegalovirus**, with development explored particularly for **herpetic keratitis** using an ophthalmic eyedrop formulation. Available information indicates that development was **discontinued**, and animal studies have reported **nephrotoxicity**.

Other names

eprociclovir