Emerging treatments
Corticosteroids
While some studies report that corticosteroids are effective in dengue infection, more evidence is required before they are recommended.[102][115]
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[Evidence C]
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[Evidence C] One randomised controlled trial found that use of oral prednisolone during the early acute phase of dengue infection was not associated with prolongation of viremia or other adverse effects. Although not powered to assess efficacy, the study found no reduction in the development of shock or other recognised complications of dengue virus infection.[116]
Antiviral drugs
The development of a safe and effective antiviral drug that is active against the dengue virus is a priority. Although this has been attempted, currently there have been no successful outcomes.[117] Balapiravir is a prodrug of a nucleoside analogue (R1479) and an inhibitor of hepatitis C virus replication in vivo. It was found to be ineffective as a candidate drug in a randomised, double-blind placebo-controlled trial of balapiravir in adult patients with dengue.[118]
Statins
Statins have pleiotropic effects that improve endothelial function. These effects have been postulated to improve the severe manifestations of dengue, which are in part due to inflammatory processes that affect the vascular endothelium. One randomised controlled trial found that, while lovastatin was safe and well tolerated in patients with dengue, there was no evidence of a beneficial effect.[119]
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