Scientists discover anti inflammatory drugs may aid virus spread

Science Daily reported that researchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology discovered that widely used anti inflammatory drugs may unintentionally help dangerous viruses spread through the body. Scientists found that JAK inhibitors, which are prescribed for rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions, can suppress genes that normally fight viral infections. [1]

According to Science Daily, the study revealed that JAK inhibitors weaken a crucial immune defense against influenza, COVID-19, and other viral infections. By targeting inflammation, these medications lower the body's natural genetic response that blocks viral replication. [1]

A virus is a submicroscopic infectious agent that replicates only inside the living cells of an organism. Researchers study viruses to understand how therapeutic drugs interact with cellular defenses during viral attacks. [2]

The findings highlight an important medical risk as medications designed to treat chronic inflammatory diseases can produce unintended side effects that put patients at increased risk during viral outbreaks, Science Daily reported. [1]